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What essentials should I pack before moving to Thailand for the first time?
ThailandExpatsVisa TipsLiving in ThailandFinancial PreparationHealth InsuranceInternational DrivingPayment MethodsATM FeesMobile Apps
Jul 26, 2025
9 months ago
Tee *********
ORIGINAL POSTEROk with all the lovely info shared by members of this group, got my starter pack ready lol … am I missing anything??
*Charles Schwab debit cards - for zero ATM FEES
*REVOLUT debit card- used mainly in Thailand?
*Wise debit card- main way to make payments without a Thai bank
*International Drivers License-
*DTV printed in A6 format.
*Passport
Am I missing anything ? -
*Health Insurance to be purchased when I arrive
* SIM card- will be purchased at arrival.
*Charles Schwab debit cards - for zero ATM FEES
*REVOLUT debit card- used mainly in Thailand?
*Wise debit card- main way to make payments without a Thai bank
*International Drivers License-
*DTV printed in A6 format.
*Passport
Am I missing anything ? -
*Health Insurance to be purchased when I arrive
* SIM card- will be purchased at arrival.
TLDR : Answer Summary
The original poster (OP) sought advice on essential items to prepare before moving to Thailand. Key items mentioned include debit cards (Charles Schwab, Revolut, Wise), an International Driver's License, health insurance (advised to purchase before arrival), a local SIM card, cash (recommended in large, clean bills), and passport documentation. The community provided various suggestions, such as bringing additional cash, obtaining a Thai driver's license, using credit cards without foreign transaction fees, and downloading local payment apps like TrueMoney or Moreta Pay. Additionally, they emphasized the importance of being prepared for cash transactions in many local venues.
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Matt *******
If you don’t have one already I’d recommend a credit card that has no exchange fees like the Apple Card.
Anonymous ******************
I would look to see about purchasing your insurance before you get here. If you are in the United States, there is an insurance called Geo blue international. But, you can only purchase it from the states not while you are in Thailand. You won’t be eligible for Thai health insurance. You will only be eligible For international insurance. 
Anonymous ******************
Download Moreta pay
Anonymous ******************
Definitely bring some cash in 100 bills,
some place will put surcharge for card use
some place will put surcharge for card use
Friday ***********
Anonymous participant 321 you don't need to bring any cash if you have a debit card without atm fees.
Reply to
Friday ***********
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Tore *********
Cash…
And be aware you can only legally use the IDP for 90 days in Thailand. It’s worth getting a Thai license (for more than one reason)?
And be aware you can only legally use the IDP for 90 days in Thailand. It’s worth getting a Thai license (for more than one reason)?
Aaron *****
IDP means nothing here. Be prepared to get a Thai license
Steven *********
@Aaron ****
yes it does. Just make sure you have one for motorcycle so you can ride a motorbike. Been using mine for years hereGreg ********
@Steven ********
Exactly. The overwhelming majority of people riding rented bikes even with a IDP do not have a motorcycle license/endorsement from their home country.Aaron *****
@Greg *******
get outta here, you live in Pattaya too so you should know they will still fine you with an IDP. There are constant check points near central on beach rd, the intersection of 2nd rd and S Pattaya rd, 2nd rd by Pattaya and Thappraya rd going into Jomtien to catch foreigners without licenses or helmets. Just because you can rent one with it doesn’t mean you wont get a fine.Greg ********
@Aaron ****
You do not seem understand the concept of what the IDP is valid for. If no bike license at home then not valid for a bike in Thailand. The vast majority who bring an IDP to Thailand do not have a bike license at home. This is pretty simple. Is it beyond your ken? In your observational studies have you not been establishing the endorsements? You need to setp up your game.Aaron *****
@Greg *******
I have an IDP with the endorsement and still got a ticket, my friend as well. You arent going to tell me what my personal experience was, point blank, get a Thai license is your safest bet. You can find similar stories in any Thai fb group. Done going back and forth with you all on this trying to dismiss what I personal went through.Greg ********
@Aaron ****
There are many factors influencing your experience. Anecdotes do not make data. Congratulations of the cognitive bias known as "Experience Bias."Greg ********
@Aaron ****
UK licence number. 42 million car licences and 1.2 million active motorbike licenses. This is probably similar to most visotor countries. Most people do not have a bike license or endorsement to allow the riding of bikes in ThailandReply to
Greg ********
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Ivan ***********
That is ignorant talk. If you have your nation's DL (with motorcycle) and the IDP (and you stay under 90 days), you do not have to pay any fine. Before I did my Thai motorcycle DL I was stopped several times with my foreign DL and IDP without any issues.
Greg ********
@Ivan **********
Most do not have a bike license or endorsement on theor home license though. Those are the ones still getting fined.Aaron *****
@Greg *******
bs, even with the endorsement they do not care, 5-5k baht fine.Greg ********
@Aaron ****
Yes Mr Asia Old Hand. Been to Phuket and Pattaya on holiday and knows everything from a bar stool. Your observational studies from that barstool are noted. Thank you.Aaron *****
@Greg *******
excuse me for sharing my experience in the place ive been visiting and living in for i dunno the last 10 yearsGreg ********
@Aaron ****
You call BS on everyone else so returning the compliment. I commended you on your observational study from the comfort of your barstool. Will you be upgrading to a randomised study? PS: How do you know the people fined had a motorbike endorsement on their IDP? What was your sample size?Aaron *****
@Greg *******
first, it happened to me personally and it happened to my friend. Secondly, I can hear them arguing with the cops and showing them the IDP with motorcycle endorsement. Also, go to any other fb group about this matter and youll get tons of stories about this. Its no secret, you go to areas like Pattaya and Phuket do not think you are good to go with an IDP only. There are tons of stories floating around fb groups about this topic. I paid my first fine and immediately went to get a Thai license after the cop encouraged me to do so.Greg ********
@Aaron ****
So your sample size is two. Anecdotes do not make data. Do you need help with a study design?Aaron *****
@Greg *******
Way more than two buddy. You have a good day and keep setting people up for failure. Point blank, you want to be safe and bot pay fines dont rely on an IDP and always wear a helmet. You have a good one.Greg ********
@Aaron ****
Good luck with your research. PS My advice is if on a DTV get a local license but that went way past your bar stoolAaron *****
@Greg *******
its going good, book coming soon. Thai license is the safest way to go and thats all I was trying to say. Watching the check points while having a cold beer on beach road is just my past time in retirement. Just trying to share with folks to bear on the side or caution if you dont want to pay the tourist tax.Reply to
Aaron *****
Reply
Aaron *****
@Ivan **********
you arent going to tell me what I have personally experienced. Its not ignorant talk, your response is ignorant. That may be your experience although I highly doubt it depending where the stop happened. My buddy had to pay 5k baht as well. Had a IDP, US motorcycle license and was wearing a helmet. They said “this no good”.Chris *********
@Aaron ****
you got finessed, that's not the norm. I've had no helmet an no license on me drunk at 2am and drove off after telling him I don't want to do the test. Granted at the time I held a thai police I'd but still u both are right but not all the time and not everywhere. If you came through my checkpoint you'd be fine if ur docs stack up.Aaron *****
@Chris ********
my Thai realtor had to pay 5500 because she was a little tipsy and had no helmet. It all depends on the one that pulls you over and where you are. Again i say, be safe, get a Thai license if you intend on being here long and I stand by that, and again, I am in Pattaya things are different hereChris *********
@Aaron ****
pattaya is definitely bad, I got done with a loud exhaust there, definitely depends where u are. Chon buri is it's own kingdom. I call this country "The land of stories" cause everyone has a different one. Enjoy it.Reply to
Chris *********
Reply
Anonymous ******************
@Aaron ****
can be used to get thai drivers license and avoids need to take driving or written tests. Also IDP is valid for 1 year.Luit *****************
IDP itself depending on type is valid from 1 till 3 years, but that doed not mean you can use it that long in all countries.
It is only meant for temporary visitors, and many countries have a maximum of 90 days use.
For Thailand opinions about this period vary.
Als an IDP without presenting the national drivers licence you used to get the IDP is not valid.
So there are all kind of reasons why you can be fined even with IDP.
It is only meant for temporary visitors, and many countries have a maximum of 90 days use.
For Thailand opinions about this period vary.
Als an IDP without presenting the national drivers licence you used to get the IDP is not valid.
So there are all kind of reasons why you can be fined even with IDP.
Anonymous ******************
Anonymous participant 233 not anymore.
Aaron *****
Anonymous participant 457 i just got both my license without an IDP. I also just seen a bunch of Chinese guys get pulled over and pulled put IDPs and still got fined, literally a day ago.
Reply to
Aaron *****
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Aaron *****
Anonymous participant 233 you dont need an IDP to get a Thai license. Get pulled over with an IDP and I promise you that you are more than likely paying a fine.
Reply to
Aaron *****
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Tore *********
@Aaron ****
can use legally for 90 days, but yeah Thai License a must.Tore *********
@Aaron ****
phuket? Wouldn’t happen in Bangkok within the 90 days. Cars that is.Aaron *****
@Tore ********
Pattaya and happened to my friend when we were in PhuketReply to
Aaron *****
Reply
Aaron *****
@Tore ********
yeah get pulled over with one and tell me how it goes. I sit at my favorite beachside bar and watch the stops and see the people arguing they have an IDP and still have to go inside and pay a fine.Jens ****************
@Aaron ****
got pulled over in Isaan, zero problems with IDPAaron *****
@Jens ***************
Pattaya and Phuket for me.Tore *********
@Aaron ****
likely motorbikes, an standard IDP doesn’t allow you to drive “scooter”. Need a full motorbike license from home + IDP that specifically states heavy motorbikeAaron *****
@Tore ********
in Pattaya and Phuket it is at the discretion of the cop that pulls you over at the time 🤣. Otherwise yes you are right. Im not arguing anyone just telling the truth about these areas.Tore *********
@Aaron ****
yeah Im aware they target tourist more thereJens ****************
@Aaron ****
yeah, I heard those places are more strictAaron *****
@Jens ***************
yeah very much even to Thais believe it or not in some cases. With everything in Thailand, it’s subject to change and location. Not leaving though 🤷🏽♂️🤣Reply to
Aaron *****
Reply
Anonymous ******************
Carry emergency exit cash...1-2kUSD minimum in PERFECT bills...
Christopher ********
Anonymous participant 864 yep. I learned the hard way how they dont take US bills that aren't clean or perfect.
Reply to
Christopher ********
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Bobby *********
SoFi is international fee free as well.
Anonymous ******************
@Bobby ********
more info?Reply to
Anonymous ******************
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Jovany *********
For the wise debit card, I dont think you need the debit card. I think you can just send payments via the website?
Tore *********
@Jovany ********
Pretty sure OP doesn’t have a Thai Bank account 😉Reply to
Tore *********
Reply
Daniel *******
What’s the pons using revolut?
And also wise ? How did you get the card ?
And also wise ? How did you get the card ?
Ian ***********
@Daniel ******
need to obtain both in your own country first. I use both for everything, everyday.Reply to
Ian ***********
Reply
Adam *******
Can anyone confirm this Schwab account refunds atm fees. Reading the TC it seems that it’s only for atms at a bank but wanted to check. Also how do people transfer to the Schwab account and do they encounter fees?
Chad ********
I also recommend getting a US phone number in place to use for 2FA texts. However, Schwab is ok with texting my Thai number for 2FA.
Chad ********
@Adam ******
it's a common perk in the US. Even my credit union does this.Justin ********
@Adam ******
Fidelity also reimburses ALL ATM feesAnastasia **********************
@Adam ******
yes I get a refund each month and it doesn’t matter what atm I went to. Its awesome!Anonymous ******************
@Adam ******
works at any atm. I've been reimbursed $50 for a month before from tx all over. I normally zelle from my chase to Schwab account right before I take out the cash at the atm. It's instant.
Brandon ************
@Adam ******
ACH transfer from my primary bank. Pretty much every ATM is owned by a bank, at least every one that I've ever used overseas. I've always had my ATM fees refunded in Korea, Japan, Thailand.Reply to
Brandon ************
Reply
Anonymous ******************
Wow well prepared
Angelo ***********
Learn the prices of goods and services, just because it looks like half the price as at home, it might still be a factor 5 rip off. And keep in mind: Thailand has mostly a "no tips culture". The only wide exception is Thai massage.
Get the Bolt app, it is a car/ride sharing app. It is most of the time cheaper than Taxi, and the cars are usually new electric cars. Thai/English translation is build in, and most drivers speak at least a bit English (most taxi drivers don't).
Someone mentioned the True Money App, but most "banking apps" will do and allow to connect a foreign credit card. Except for tourist shops or super big super markets, hotels etc. you will have bad luck paying with a debit or credit card. You have to withdraw cash, or pay with a banking app via QR code scan.
Enjoy your trip ...
Get the Bolt app, it is a car/ride sharing app. It is most of the time cheaper than Taxi, and the cars are usually new electric cars. Thai/English translation is build in, and most drivers speak at least a bit English (most taxi drivers don't).
Someone mentioned the True Money App, but most "banking apps" will do and allow to connect a foreign credit card. Except for tourist shops or super big super markets, hotels etc. you will have bad luck paying with a debit or credit card. You have to withdraw cash, or pay with a banking app via QR code scan.
Enjoy your trip ...
Wannikea *********
Bring as much cash as you can in perfect new large denomination bills. Where's your actual driver's license, the IDP is useless without it, are you certified for scooters/motorcycles in the IDP?
Bob *********
@Hampus *********
Wait until the Thai police stop you at the checkpoint stopping farang in Pattaya or Phuket. Best of luck discussing “law”. 555Hampus **********
@Bob ********
Not sure what you are on about? Had plenty of stops and never any problems with officers if you genuinely have the correct IDP stamp that proves you are certified for motorcycles and in certain cases heavy bikes.Bob *********
@Hampus *********
You had “plenty of stops”? You mean at the checkpoints using racial profiling? Got it.Anonymous ******************
@Bob ********
lol someone a little bitter. It’s a business for them. Sad but true. Thais can’t afford the 2000b no helmet fee so who else did they increase it for?Reply to
Anonymous ******************
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Wannikea *********
@Bob ********
the IDP has a page for licensee stamps; motorcycle, trucks, buses, etc.Reply to
Wannikea *********
Reply
Bob *********
@Wannikea ********
Does not cover scootersHampus **********
@Bob ********
IDP can cover motorbikes and scooters if you are certified for the correct license in your home country.Reply to
Hampus **********
Reply
Marney ********
Copy of your passport or a screen shot just incase. Some cash as cash is king
Entry TDAC 3 days before your departure. Don't forget to leave your western mentality at home, smile be polite to everyone you'll be fine ka.
Entry TDAC 3 days before your departure. Don't forget to leave your western mentality at home, smile be polite to everyone you'll be fine ka.
Wannikea *********
Heavy plastic Ziploc bag for your passport.
Mark *******
@Tee ********
you are a pro!!! bring some cash too - just in case ( in $100 bills) but keep it very safe. also, don't keep all your credit cards in the same place.bring some good credit card ( no foreign fees) so you can get some points or cash back + Credit cards often have stronger fraud protection policies than debit cards.Yuriy ************
Install TrueMoney, verify an account and connect your card to it. Then you can use it for payments where venues don’t accept cards (many don’t)
Donna ******
@Yuriy ***********
Need to get a Thai driving license to verify on TrueMoney, then can add credit card.Tee *********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Yuriy ***********
can you post a pic of the app? I can’t find it in the App StoreYuriy ************
Reply to
Yuriy ************
Reply
Daniel *******
@Yuriy ***********
you need Thai bankFriday ***********
@Daniel ******
you only need a Thai bank to have unlimited top up balance. Without Thai bank account you can still get one but the max balance you can have is 3000 baht.Donna ******
@Friday **********
Correction: the balance limit is 30k/MTH, top up is 3k each transaction, can do multiple top-ups same day.Reply to
Donna ******
Reply
Vitaly ********
@Daniel ******
no you don’tYuriy ************
@Daniel ******
only Thai credit card can be connected? Doesn’t make sense (but my CC is from a Thai bank tho so idk 🤷🏻♂️)Reply to
Yuriy ************
Reply
Lianne ********
No foreign tx fee credit card that earn good cash back with virtual numbers. I only use the Schwab card for cash at the ATM but credit card whenever possible
Anonymous ******************
I use credit not debit cards wherever possible but that’s just me. Everything else 👌
DTV_Be*******
Bring about $1000 in cash as a backup
Leigh ********
All the atms have there own fees
Brandon ************
@Leigh *******
but Schwab refunds the ATM fee worldwideBob *********
@Brandon ***********
Yes they do. That card is a must in Thailand. I put a daily limit on the card and have alerts for withdrawalReply to
Bob *********
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Alex *********
If you got cash then there's nothing else u need in Thailand 😉
Reply to
Alex *********
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