2 Best Travel Cards for Thailand
Getting an international travel card before you travel to Thailand can make it cheaper and more convenient when you spend in Thai baht. You'll be able to easily top up your card in GBP before you leave the UK, to convert seamlessly to THB for secure and flexible spending and withdrawals.
This guide walks through our picks of the best travel cards available for anyone from the UK heading to Thailand, like Wise or Revolut. We'll walk through a head to head comparison, and a detailed look at their features, benefits and drawbacks.
2 best travel money cards for Thailand:
Let's kick off our roundup of the best travel cards for Thailand with a head to head comparison on important features. Here's an overview of the providers we've picked to look at, for customers looking for ways to spend conveniently overseas when travelling from the UK:
Wise travel card - best currencies coverage - 40+ supported currencies and mid-market exchange rate
Travelex travel card - free wifi for card holders
| Card | Card scheme | Fees for spending | Trustpilot score | Go to provider |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wise | Visa / Mastercard | No fees to spend currencies you hold | 4.3 / 5 (220,000+) | Go to Wise |
| Travelex | Mastercard | No fees to spend currencies you hold, 5.75% fee to spend a currency you don’t hold a balance in | 3.7 / 5 (41,000+) | Go to Travelex |
Each of the international travel cards we’ve picked out have their own features and fees, which may mean they suit different customer needs. Keep reading to learn more about the features, advantages and disadvantages of each - plus a look at how to order the travel card of your choice before you head off to Thailand.
Wise travel card
Delivered in the UK
Visa/Mastercard debit card
Mid-market exchange rate
40+ currenciesOpen a Wise account online or in the Wise app, to order a Wise travel card you can use for convenient spending and withdrawals in Thailand. Wise accounts can hold 40+ currencies, so you can top up in GBP easily from your bank or using your card. Whenever you travel, to Thailand or beyond, you’ll have the option to convert to the currency you need in advance if it’s supported for holding a balance, or simply let the card do the conversion at the point of payment.
With the Wise money card you’ll get the mid-market exchange rate with low, transparent fees whenever you spend in THB, plus some free ATM withdrawals every month - perfect if you’re looking for easy ways to arrange your travel cash.
Wise features
Card | Fees for spending | ATM fees | Withdraw limit | Annual fee | App available | Trustpilot score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Visa or Mastercard Debit Card | No fees to spend currencies you hold | Some fee free withdrawals monthly, with low fees after that | 4,000 GBP a month | N/A | iOS & Android | 4.3 / 5 (200,000+) |
Wise travel card pros and cons
- Hold and exchange 40+ currencies with the mid-market rate
- Spend seamlessly in THB when you travel
- Some free ATM withdrawals every month, for those times only cash will do
- Ways to receive payments to your Wise account conveniently
- Manage your account and card from your phone
- 7 GBP delivery fee for your first card
- ATM fees apply once you've exhausted your monthly free withdrawals
- Physical cards may take 2 - 6 days to arrive (you can use your virtual card right away)
How to apply for a Wise card
Here’s how to apply for a Wise account and order a Wise travel card in the UK:
Open the Wise app or desktop site
Select Register and confirm you want to open a personal account
Register with your email, Facebook, Apple or Google ID
Upload your ID document to complete the verification step
Tap the Cards tab to order your card
Pay the one time 7 GBP fee, confirm your mailing address, and your card will be on the way, and should arrive in 2 - 6 days
Travelex travel card
Delivered in the UK
Mastercard debit card15 currencies
In-store/online collectionGet your Travelex card for spending in Thailand either in person at a store, or by ordering online. 15 currencies are supported for holding a balance - but it’s useful to know that you need to convert to the currency you need for your trip in advance to avoid extra fees.
You can pay in GBP and load a balance in the currency of your choice, to spend and withdraw with no further Travelex fee - or you’ll pay 5.75% to convert at the point of payment. Check the up to date list of supported currencies on the Travelex website to ensure that THB is available for holding a balance.
Travelex features
| Card | Fees for spending | ATM fees | Withdraw limit | Annual fee | App available | Trustpilot score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mastercard Debit Card | No fees to spend currencies you hold 5.75% fee to spend a currency you don’t hold a balance in | No Travelex fee | 500 GBP a day | N/A; inactivity fees apply if you don’t use your card regularly | iOS & Android | 3.7 / 5 (41,000+) |
Travelex travel card pros and cons
- Hold 15 currencies
- No Travelex ATM fees
- Free wifi for card holders
- Mastercard privileges for card holders
- 24/7 support if your card is lost or stolen
- 5.75% fee to spend a currency you don't hold
- Inactivity fees if you don't use your card frequently
- 4.2% exchange rate markup on average when loading supported currencies
How to apply for a Travelex card
To apply for a Travelex account and order a travel card in the UK before you leave for your trip, you can pop into a Travelex store with your ID document. It’s also possible to order your card online, although in this case you’ll need to wait a couple of days for it to arrive by post, and activate it once you have your card in your hand.
What is a travel money card?
A travel money card is a card you can use for secure and convenient payments and withdrawals overseas.
You can use a travel money card to tap and pay in stores and restaurants, with a wallet like Apple Pay, or to make ATM withdrawals so you'll always have a bit of cash in your pocket when you travel.
Although there are lots of different travel money cards on the market, all of which are unique, one similarity you'll spot is that the features and fees have always been optimised for international use. That might mean you get a better exchange rate compared to using your normal card overseas, or that you run into fewer fees for common international transactions like ATM withdrawals.
Travel money cards may also offer distinct benefits when it comes to security. If your travel card is separate to your British Pound primary account, this means they're not linked and offers a more secure option for travelling abroad.
Travel money vs prepaid card vs travel credit card
It's helpful to know that you'll be able to pick from several different types of travel cards, depending on your priorities and preferences. Travel cards commonly include:
- Travel debit cards
- Travel prepaid cards
- Travel credit cards
They all have distinct benefits when you head off to Thailand or elsewhere in the world, but they do work a bit differently.
Travel debit and prepaid cards are usually linked to an online account, and may come from specialist digital providers - like the Wise card. These cards are usually flexible and cheap to use. You'll be able to manage your account and card through an app, although you can also often add money in person by visiting a branch - we've picked out the Post Office and the Travelex travel card as popular prepaid cards with a branch network in the UK, for example.
Travel credit cards are different and may suit different customer needs. As with any other credit card, you may need to pay an annual fee or interest and penalties depending on how you manage your account - but you could also earn extra rewards when spending in a foreign currency, or travel benefits like free insurance for example. Generally using a travel credit card can be more expensive compared to a debit or prepaid card - but it does let you spread out the costs of your travel across several months if you'd like to and don't mind paying interest to do so.
What is a prepaid travel money card best for?
Let's take a look at the advantages of using a prepaid travel money card for travellers going to Thailand. While each travel card is a little different, you'll usually find some or all of the following benefits:
- Hold and exchange foreign currencies - allowing you to lock in exchange rates and set a travel budget before you leave
- Convenient for spending in person and through mobile wallets like Apple Pay, as well as for cash withdrawals
- You may find you get a better exchange rate compared to your bank - and you'll usually be able to avoid any foreign transaction fee, too
- Travel cards can be more secure. If they are not linked to your everyday GBP account, they can be a safer option. Additionally, because you can make ATM withdrawals when needed, you can avoid carrying too much cash at once
Overall, travel cards offer flexible and low cost ways to avoid bank foreign transaction and international ATM fees, while accessing decent exchange rates.
How to choose the best travel card for Thailand
We've picked out 2 great travel cards available in the UK - but there are also more options available, which can make choosing a daunting task. Some things to consider when picking a travel card for Thailand include:
- What exchange rates does the card use? Choosing one with the mid-market rate or as close as possible to it is usually a smart plan
- What fees are unavoidable? For example, ATM charges or top up fees for your preferred top up methods
- Does the card support a good range of currencies? Getting a card which allows you to hold and spend in THB can give you the most flexibility, but it's also a good idea to pick a card with lots of currency options, so you can use it again in future, too
- Are there any other charges? Check in particular for foreign transaction fees, local ATM withdrawal fees, inactivity fees and account close fees
Ultimately the right card for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for a low cost card with the mid-market rate, which you can use in 150+ countries, the Wise card may be a good fit. If you'd prefer to pay a monthly fee to get higher no-fee transaction limits, take a look at Revolut. And if you need to get a card in a hurry, check out a travel card from a provider with a physical branch network, like the Post Office card or the Travelex travel money card.
What makes a good travel card for Thailand
The best travel debit card for Thailand really depends on your personal preferences and how you like to manage your money.
Overall, it pays to look for a card which lets you minimise fees and access favourable exchange rates - ideally the mid-market rate. While currency exchange rates do change all the time, the mid-market rate is a good benchmark to use as it’s the one available to banks when trading on wholesale markets. Getting this rate, with transparent conversion fees, makes it easier to compare costs and see exactly what you’re paying when you spend in THB.
Other features and benefits to look out for include low ATM withdrawal fees, complimentary travel insurance, airport lounge access or emergency cash if your card is stolen. It’s also important to look into the security features of any travel card you might pick for Thailand. Look for a card which uses 2 factor authentication when accessing the account app, which allows you to set instant transaction notifications, and which has easy ways to freeze, unfreeze and cancel your card with your phone.
When you’re planning your trip to Thailand, bear in mind that cash is still a primary payment method, and many merchants and public service providers won’t accept a card. You’ll want a travel card which allows low cost cash withdrawals so you’ve always got some THB in your pocket - and you can also keep hold of your card as a convenient back up in case of emergency too. Choose a card with no ongoing fees and no inactivity costs, so you can use it for your next trip abroad to get the most possible use out of it.
Ways to pay in Thailand
Cash and card payments - including contactless, mobile wallet, debit, credit and prepaid card payments - are the most popular ways to pay globally.
In Thailand cash is a very popular payment method. While you may find cards are accepted in major hotels and chain stores or very busy tourist areas, many merchants prefer cash. Make sure you’ve always got some THB in cash in your wallet by making ATM withdrawals with your travel card whenever you need to.
Which countries use THB?
You’ll find that THB can only be used in Thailand. If you don’t travel to Thailand frequently it’s worth thinking carefully about how much to exchange so you’re not left with extra foreign currency after your trip. Or pick a travel card from a provider like Wise or Revolut which lets you leave your money in GBP and convert at the point of payment with no penalty.
| Thai baht | |
|---|---|
| Currency name | Thai baht |
| ISO code | THB |
| Symbol | ฿ |
| THB denominations | banknotes - 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000 THB adn coins coins - 1, 2, 5, 10 THB; 25, 50 satang |
| Best travel cards to take to Thailand | Wise, Travelex |
What should you be aware of when travelling to Thailand
You’re sure to have a great time in Thailand - but whenever you’re travelling abroad it's worth putting in a little advance thought to make sure everything is organised and your trip goes smoothly. Here are a few things to think about:
1. Double check the latest entry requirements and visas - rules can change abruptly, so even if you’re been to Thailand before it’s worth looking up the most recent entry requirements so you don’t have any hassle on the border
2. Cash is a widespread payment method - so you’ll need some THB in your pocket when you travel to Thailand. You can sort out your travel money by visiting an exchange office here in the UK, or you can wait until you arrive and make an ATM withdrawal in THB at the airport when you land. Bear in mind that currency exchange at exchange offices at the airport, either in the UK or in Thailand can be expensive - so if you’re carrying GBP in cash and need to exchange it, head into a town centre to do so.
3. Get clued up on any health or safety concerns - get travel insurance before you leave the UK so you have peace of mind. It’s also worth reading up on any common scams or issues experienced by tourists. These tend to change over time, but may include things like rip off taxis or tour agents which don’t offer fair prices or adequate services.
How does a Thai baht card work?
Getting a Thai baht card can make managing your money easier when you travel to Thailand.
Your Thai baht card will be linked to a digital account you can manage from your phone, so you'll always be able to see your balance, get transaction notifications and manage your card no matter where you are. Just add money to your account in pounds, and - depending on your preferences and the specific card you pick - you can either convert your balance to Thai baht instantly, or just let the card do the conversion when you spend or make a withdrawal.
If your card gives you the option to hold a Thai baht balance, there's not normally any extra fee to spend the Thai baht you have in your account when you're in Thailand.
Can I withdraw Thai baht currency with my card in Thailand?
With some cards, you'll be able to add money to your card in British Pound, and then convert to Thai baht instantly online or in your card's app.
Once you have a balance in Thai baht you can spend with your card with no extra fees - just tap and pay as you would at home. You'll also be able to make cash withdrawals whenever you need to, with no extra conversion fee to pay. Your card - or the ATM operator - may charge a withdrawal fee, but this can still be a cheap, secure and convenient option for getting cash when you need it.
With other cards, you can't hold a balance in Thai baht on your card - but you can leave your money in British Pound and let the card convert your money for you when you spend and withdraw.
Some fees may apply here - including currency conversion or foreign transaction charges - so do compare a few different cards before you sign up, to make sure you're picking the one which best suits your specific spending needs.
Bear in mind though, that not all cards support all currencies - and the range of currencies available with any given card can change from time to time. If your card doesn't let you hold a balance in Thai baht you might find that fees apply when you spend in Thailand, so it's well worth double checking your card's terms and conditions - and comparing the options available from other providers - before you travel, just in case.
Why should I get a Thai baht card?
Getting a Thai baht card means you can spend like a local when you're in Thailand. You'll be able to check your Thai baht balance at a glance, add and convert money on the move, and use your card for secure spending and withdrawals whenever you need to. Best of all, Thai baht cards from popular providers often offer good exchange rates and low, transparent fees, which can mean your money goes further when you're on a trip abroad.
Conclusion - Best travel cards for Thailand
Ultimately the best travel card for your trip to Thailand will depend on how you like to manage your money. Use this guide to get some insights into the most popular options out there, and to decide which may suit your specific needs.
FAQ - best travel cards for Thailand
When you use a travel money card you may find there’s an ATM withdrawal fee from your card issuer, and there may also be a cost applied by the ATM operator. Some of our travel cards - like Wise - have some no fee ATM withdrawals every month, which can help keep down costs.
Travel money cards may be debit, prepaid or credit cards. Which is best for you will depend on your personal preferences. Debit and prepaid cards are usually pretty cheap and secure to spend with, while credit cards may have higher fees but often come with extra perks like free travel insurance and extra reward points.
There’s no single best prepaid card for international use. Look out for one which supports a large range of currencies, with good exchange rates and low fees. This guide can help you compare some popular options, including Wise and Revolut.
Yes, you can use your local debit card when you’re overseas. However, it’s common to find extra fees apply when spending in foreign currencies with a regular debit card. These can include foreign transaction fees and international ATM charges.
Usually having a selection of ways to pay - including a travel card, your credit or debit card, and some cash - is the best bet. That means that no matter what happens, you have an alternative payment method you can use conveniently.
Yes. Most travel debit cards have options to make ATM withdrawals. Check the fees that apply as card charges do vary a lot. Some cards have local and international fees on all withdrawals, while others let you make some no fee withdrawals monthly before a fee kicks in.
Both Visa and Mastercard are globally accepted. Look out for the logo on ATMs and payment terminals in Thailand.
The cards you see on this page are ordered as follows:
For card providers that publish their exchange rates on their website, we used their GBP / THB rate to calculate how much Thai baht you would receive when exchanging / spending £3,000 GBP. The card provider offering the most THB is displayed at the top, the next highest below that, and so on.
The rates were collected at 09:36:26 GMT on 25 May 2024.
Below this we display card providers for which we could not verify their exchange rates. These are displayed in alphabetical order.