When traveling to Bangkok, most restaurants and shops accept credit cards, allowing you to minimize cash usage during your trip. However, some street vendors and small establishments still operate on a cash-only basis, making it necessary to have some Thai baht on hand.
During my recent Bangkok trip, I decided not to exchange currency in advance and instead withdrew cash directly from an ATM at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Here’s my experience with the ATM locations, withdrawal process, and fees.
Understanding Bangkok ATM Withdrawal Fees
When withdrawing cash at Thai ATMs using international credit or debit cards, you’ll encounter a 220 baht fee per transaction (approximately $6-7 USD). This is a standard charge across all Thai banks for foreign card withdrawals. Given this substantial fee, it makes sense to withdraw a larger amount in a single transaction rather than making multiple withdrawals.
I decided to withdraw 5,000 baht (about $140 USD) to avoid the need for additional withdrawals during my trip. The total charge was 5,220 baht, including the 220 baht ATM fee.
Finding ATMs at Suvarnabhumi Airport
Locating ATMs at Suvarnabhumi Airport is straightforward. After clearing immigration and entering the baggage claim area, you’ll find multiple ATM machines throughout the arrivals hall. Most of these are Kasikorn Bank ATMs, easily identified by their green logo.
The ATMs are available 24/7, and there are no machines before the immigration checkpoint, only currency exchange booths.
Step-by-Step ATM Withdrawal Process
Insert Your Card
Begin by inserting your international debit or credit card into the ATM slot.
Enter Your PIN
Thai ATMs typically use 6-digit PINs. If your card has a 4-digit PIN (common for most international cards), simply add “00” at the end. For example, if your PIN is “1234,” enter “123400.”
Most Thai ATMs accept both 4-digit and 6-digit PINs, so your card should work without issues.
Wait for Loading
After entering your PIN, the system will process your request briefly.
Change Language Settings
Once the menu appears, select “Change Language” to switch the interface to English. Unfortunately, Korean and most other languages aren’t available, but English makes the process straightforward.
Select Withdrawal Amount
Choose your desired withdrawal amount. I selected 5,000 baht from the options displayed on the left side of the screen. If you need a different amount not shown on the menu, tap “Cash Withdrawal” in the upper right corner to enter a custom amount.
Accept the Fee
A notification will appear showing the 220 baht transaction fee. Review this charge and press “Accept” to proceed with your withdrawal.
Collect Cash and Card
After another brief loading screen, the ATM will dispense your cash. Don’t forget to collect both your money and your card before leaving.
Tips for ATM Withdrawals in Bangkok
Always withdraw larger amounts to minimize the impact of the 220 baht fee. The fee percentage becomes more reasonable with higher withdrawal amounts.
Decline dynamic currency conversion if offered. Some ATMs may ask if you want to be charged in your home currency instead of Thai baht. Always choose to be charged in baht for a better exchange rate.
Keep your withdrawal receipts for expense tracking during your trip.
Consider withdrawing at the baggage claim area while waiting for your luggage to save time.
How Much Cash Do You Actually Need?
It’s challenging to predict exactly how much cash you’ll use during your trip. In my case, I withdrew 5,000 baht but ended up using only about 3,000 baht during my entire stay, as most places accepted cards. I used the remaining 2,000 baht at the duty-free shops in Suvarnabhumi Airport before departing, purchasing souvenirs and snacks.
For most travelers, withdrawing 3,000-5,000 baht should be sufficient for a short trip, covering taxis, street food, small purchases, and tipping.
The key is finding the balance between having enough cash for convenience and not withdrawing so much that you’re left with excess baht at the end of your trip.
