Chapter 6 of 15 · Money
Money in Phuket: exchange, ATMs, cards
Where to change money well, what ATMs charge, where cards and QR work and whether to tip. So you don’t lose on rates and fees.
Money essentials
Where to change money
The best rate is at exchange booths (e.g. in Central Phuket and chains like SuperRich), not the airport or hotel. Bring USD/EUR in large notes — the rate is better.
ATMs
Withdrawals carry a ~220 ฿ fee per transaction (on top of your bank). Withdraw larger amounts less often, and choose “without conversion”.
Cards & QR
Cards work in malls, hotels and restaurants; markets and street food are cash. Local QR payments (PromptPay) are mostly for Thai accounts.
Tipping
Not mandatory: round up the bill or leave 20–50 ฿. Some restaurants already add a 10% service charge.
Tip: when paying by card or withdrawing, always choose the amount in baht (THB), not your home currency — “pay in your currency” hides a poor rate (DCC).
PhuketStayPro
Help with money on the ground
We’ll point you to good exchange booths nearby, help with ATMs and payments, and advise on transfers. A Russian/English-speaking assistant on call.
FAQ
Where is the best place to change money in Phuket?
At in-town and mall exchange booths (Central Phuket, chains like SuperRich) — notably better than the airport or hotel. Bring USD/EUR in large notes.
What are the ATM fees in Thailand?
About 220 ฿ per transaction on top of your bank’s fee. So it’s cheaper to withdraw larger amounts less often. Choose to pay without conversion (in baht).
Are cards accepted in Phuket?
In malls, hotels and larger restaurants — yes. Markets, street food and small cafes need cash. Keep both cash and a card on you.
How much cash to bring to Phuket?
At the border they recommend from 20,000 ฿ per person. On the ground it’s handy to keep cash for food, transport and markets, and pay by card in malls.
Ready to spend smart — where to go?
300+ vetted spots across 5 districts with a map — in the PhuketStayPro members guide.
Open the guide