Answereda year ago

What are the best ways to manage daily expenses in Thailand while using foreign currency and cards?

Visa Process Banking in Thailand Foreign Currency Transactions Living in Thailand Expense Management for Expats Daily Payment Solutions

Chris ******

asked Aug 27, 2025

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Dear All,

For a certain period of time I might need to pay daily living in Thailand with foreign credit or debit / travel cards, due to visa and bank account opening procedures and lead times.

What solutions do you guys use? My main currency is USD or AED. What would you recommend for the first 6 months of moving to Thailand when it comes to paying essentials? 

Thanks for your recommendations.

Chris

Answer summary

When moving to Thailand, expats may find themselves needing to pay for daily essentials using foreign credit or debit cards due to the time it takes to open a local bank account. Recommendations include using a Wise account for easy access to funds and withdrawals, considering a Charles Schwab debit card, and avoiding ATM conversion fees by opting for local currency withdrawals. Some users suggest alternatives like Revolut and e-wallets for added convenience, especially for nearby travel.

12 repliesnewest first

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Helen *****************

Wise or an E-Wallet (I use Touch & Go).. The wallets are convenient if you plan to visit nearby countries like Malaysia as you just change location and it converts your money- no fee, then change back when you get back..

a year ago

Matt *******

I think Revolut is better than Wise

I use both regularly

a year ago

Ian *******

TRAVELEX everyone says Wise but investigate this. Less restriction on withdrawl with travelex.

a year ago

Ian *******

Also download ATM fee saver find ATM with lower fees

a year ago

Peter *********

Wise !

a year ago

Andreas *********

never allow the ATM to do a "conversion". Only accept a withdrawal in local currency. If tjhe ATM asks you if you want to see the exchange rate on the screen, always decline!

a year ago

Max *************

@Andreas ********

Correct, always press no!

a year ago

Bonnie *******

Pulling cash out at the ATM

a year ago

Jeff *******

Charles Schwab debit card.

a year ago

Yvonne **********

@Jeff ******

Definitely 💯👍

a year ago

Jim ******

WISE

a year ago

Derek *****

Apply for a Wise account in your home country and get a Wise card. You can withdraw from the atm. U can then apply for a TrueMoney account when you’re here. With those two accounts, you’ll be totally fine with daily living.

a year ago