A Practical Guide to Thai Currency, Payments & Local Tipping Etiquette
Understanding money and tipping in Thailand will help make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable. While Thailand is well equipped for international travellers, carrying the right payment methods and understanding local tipping customs can make everyday travel much easier.
This guide explains how to use Thai currency, estimated daily expenses, and when tipping is appreciated during your visit.
Thai Currency
Thailand’s official currency is the Thai Baht (THB).
Banknotes are commonly available in:
- 1,000 THB
- 500 THB
- 100 THB
- 50 THB
- 20 THB
Coins include:
- 10 THB
- 5 THB
- 2 THB
- 1 THB
Smaller denominations of 50 and 25 satang still exist but are rarely used in everyday transactions.
It is useful to carry a mixture of small notes and coins, particularly when visiting local markets, purchasing street food, or travelling by local transport.
Cash, Credit Cards & ATMs
ATMs are widely available throughout Thailand, particularly in cities, airports, shopping centres, and popular tourist destinations.
Most machines accept international Visa, Mastercard, Plus, Cirrus, Maestro, and many debit cards.
Please note:
- Your home bank may charge international withdrawal fees.
- Thai banks may also apply a local ATM fee.
- Daily withdrawal limits vary depending on your bank.
Before travelling, we recommend informing your bank about your travel dates. Many banks use fraud protection systems that may temporarily block overseas transactions if they are not expecting international card usage.
Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, shopping malls, larger restaurants, and many tourist attractions. However, smaller businesses and local vendors may only accept cash.
Traveller’s cheques are still accepted at some banks, although they are far less commonly used than in the past.
Estimated Daily Spending
Your budget depends on your travel style. Many visitors find around 1,000THB per person per day is enough for meals and drinks (Excluding accommodation). Prices vary depending on the destination, restaurant, and season.
Local Beer
55-150THB
Breakfast & Lunch
100-300 THB
Dinner
100-300 THB
Transportations / Attractions fee
100-400 THB
Estimated Daily Spending
Your budget depends on your travel style. Many visitors find around 1,000THB per person per day is enough for meals and drinks (Excluding accommodation).
Local Beer
55-150THB
Breakfast & Lunch
100-300 THB
Dinner
100-300 THB
Transportations / Attractions fee
100-400 THB
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Tipping in Thailand
Unlike some countries where tipping is expected, tipping in Thailand is generally voluntary but greatly appreciated, particularly within the tourism and hospitality industries.
If you receive friendly, attentive, or exceptional service, leaving a tip is a thoughtful way to express your appreciation.
Restaurants
Many restaurants already include a 10% service charge in the bill.
If service is not included and you are happy with your dining experience, leaving around 10% is considered generous but not compulsory.
Small cafés and street food vendors generally do not expect tips, although rounding up the bill is always appreciated.
Tour Guides & Drivers
Professional guides and drivers work hard to ensure your holiday runs smoothly, often spending long hours assisting guests throughout the day.
If you are satisfied with their service, the following can be used as a general guide:
Multi-Day Tours
If you remain in one destination for several days and have the same guide and driver throughout your stay, many travellers prefer to present a single tip at the end of the tour rather than tipping every day.
For longer itineraries involving activities such as trekking, hiking, or journeys where your guide accompanies you away from their home region for several days, you may wish to increase your tip if you feel they have provided exceptional service.
Hotels & Local Transportation
Guests often choose to tip hotel staff who provide personal assistance.
Suggested guidelines include:
- Porter: 30–50 THB per bag
- Housekeeping: optional, depending on the length of stay
- Tuk-tuk driver: around 60 THB for one to two hours of private service if you feel the service deserves it
Having a few smaller banknotes available makes tipping much easier.
If You Need Assistance During Your Trip
At Chiang Mai Popular Tour, we carefully select experienced guides and professional drivers who are committed to providing excellent service.
However, if you are not satisfied for any reason, please let us know as soon as possible during your trip. We will do our best to resolve the issue promptly and, where appropriate, arrange an alternative guide or driver.
Addressing concerns while you are travelling allows us to improve your experience immediately.
Your Feedback Matters
Your comments after your journey help us continually improve our services.
We value honest feedback on every tour, guide, and driver. Positive comments allow us to recognise outstanding team members, while constructive suggestions help us maintain the high standards our guests expect.
Every review contributes to making future journeys even better for our travellers.
Travel with Confidence
Understanding money and tipping in Thailand allows you to enjoy your holiday without unnecessary surprises. By carrying an appropriate mix of cash and cards, planning your daily spending, and understanding local tipping customs, you can travel comfortably while showing appreciation for excellent service.
At Chiang Mai Popular Tour, our goal is to provide memorable experiences, professional service, and genuine Thai hospitality throughout your journey.
