Do tourists need to carry 20,000 THB in cash when entering Thailand, or can a credit card suffice?

Never been asked for anything

Have never been asked about funds

As clearly explained by

@Brandon ***********

, immigration very unlikely to ask for anything, as can be confirmed by many with extensive travel history

For me it’s more a question of whether you believe in probability or possibility

Probability close to zero if not in the category targeted by immigration, possibility is either you get checked or you don’t

Like winning the lottery, very low chances but someone actually wins

Never been asked but rules are rules.

How is carrying a credit card proof of 20,000 in cash? 

No one is carrying that amount of cash. The rule is from the Jurassic era more or less, and immigrations officers know that bank accounts have since become common.

Having said that, carrying a credit card doesn't exactly prove sufficient funds imo. Why not just show the funds instead?

I've yet to be asked for proof when flying in. Only time I've been asked was crossing in from Cambodia on foot.

I have been asked once in 15 years of travelling to Thailand. I didn’t have 20k cash on me so showed them my bank account and they were more than happy that I had sufficient funds for my trip

I have entered Thailand 🇹🇭 40 times or more and never been asked for proof of funds.

You only need proof of funds if you appear to be a pauper.

Has to be cash, but it’s rarely asked for unless you look poor.

No

Can also to be an equivalent in your currency, which is not a bad thing.

If you use your card at the atm there is a 220 baht fee every time you use a foreign card.

I advise you to take cash, but exchange it in Thailand for Thai baht.

You get a very good (probably the best rate at the airport. But only in the basement.

It’s a 8% difference with upstairs.

Look here for directions.

1) Yes cash. Not necessarily Baht.

2) No credit card or bank account.

The rules state cash...

There are 3 things legally required for entering Thailand as a tourist:

1) Proof of funds - 20,000 baht or equivalent in another major currency IN CASH ONLY (no credit cards, no bank statements, no bank apps)

2) Proof of onward travel - a ticket out of Thailand within the number of days you will receive on arrival

3) Proof of lodging - a few days hotel reservation at a minimum

The only time immigration ever asks for any of these is if they are looking for a reason to deny entry to you. So if you don't have a long and extensive history of entering Thailand or any sketchy visas in your past, you should be fine.

Your airline is far more likely to require proof of onward travel before they let you checkin to your flight though.