USD to THB Travel Money Compared

Currency Guide: Thailand (TH)

For travelers planning a week-long mid-range stay in Thailand, a budget of around 20,000 to 30,000 Thai Baht (THB) should suffice for a comfortable experience. This estimate considers accommodations, meals, activities, and transportation, but personal spending habits can vary. Here’s a breakdown of typical daily expenses in the local currency to give you a clearer picture:

• 🍽️ Meal at a local restaurant: 100–200 THB

• ☕ Coffee: 50–100 THB

• 🚍 Public transport fare: 20–50 THB

• 📱 Prepaid SIM card: 300–500 THB

• 🏨 Budget hotel or Airbnb: 800–1,500 THB

Overall, Thailand is considered a budget-friendly destination compared to countries like the United States and the UK, where daily expenses can be nearly two to three times higher. While a meal at a casual dining spot in the U.S. could set you back around $20–30 (or around 600–900 THB), Thailand offers great value without sacrificing quality and enjoyment.

Currency Guide: Living in Thailand for Expats

For expats, living costs can range from 30,000 to 50,000 THB per month, depending on lifestyle choices and location. Here’s a rough breakdown of common monthly expenses:

• Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: 10,000–20,000 THB

• Groceries: 5,000–8,000 THB

• Utilities: 1,500–3,000 THB

• Transportation: 1,000–2,000 THB

When it comes to banking and spending, using a local bank card is convenient, but it’s worth checking for foreign transaction fees. For larger transfers, services like Wise or OFX often provide better exchange rates and lower fees than traditional banks. As for exchanging currency, locals generally recommend withdrawing cash from ATMs or using money exchange services in-country rather than pre-exchanging money or using airport exchanges, as this can yield more favorable rates. Always stay informed about current exchange rates for the best financial planning in your expat journey!