Using your Revolut card in Thailand? Yep, you can. But it’s not always as simple as just tapping at every shop. So, if you want to avoid unexpected fees or issues while enjoying your trip, let me walk you through the basics.
I’ve been to Thailand a few times and used my Revolut card for everything from ATMs to booking a boat trip. It works pretty well, but there are a few things you’ll want to know before relying on it for all your spending.
Let’s break it down so you can use your Revolut card smoothly and avoid any surprises along the way.
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How does Revolut work in Thailand?
Revolut works in Thailand just like it does in most other countries. You can use it to pay at shops, restaurants, and even those cute little market stalls (as long as they accept card payments). It’s also handy for booking hotels, tours, and other online stuff.
You’ll have to withdraw some Thai Baht if you want to pay in Thailand. Not all places accept credit cards, particularly out of the tourist spots, so you’ll need cash in some places. Revolut has you covered, too—more on that in the next section.
So, yes, you can use Revolut in Thailand, but be prepared to have some cash on hand, just in case. Oh, and don’t forget to check if your Revolut card is set up for international use before you leave!
How to use Revolut in Thailand?
You can use your Revolut card in Thailand pretty easily. Most places that accept credit card payments—such as hotels, restaurants, and some larger stores—will accept your card without any issues. As you would normally do, just swipe or tap. However, many small shops, street vendors, and guesthouses don’t accept cards. In those cases, you will need cash.
It is easy for users to withdraw money from an ATM via Revolut, but be careful; some ATMs might charge you fees or give a bad exchange rate. Select Thai Baht (THB) rather than your home currency to avoid paying more than you need to.
So, the trick is to mix it up—use your card where you can, but always have a bit of cash ready for those cash-only spots. Easy, right?
ATM Withdrawals in Thailand with Revolut
Most ATMs are compatible with Revolut, so you can withdraw Thai Baht whenever you need it. However, not every ATM is the same. If you’re not careful, some ATMs will charge withdrawal fees (200-250 baht per transaction), while others may try to charge you an exorbitant exchange rate.
Don’t accept any currency conversion offered by the ATM if you don’t want to pay more than you ought to. Revolut handles the exchange, and you’ll get a much better rate. Keep in mind that Revolut has a free withdrawal limit each month, based on your plan. Once you exceed that limit, you’ll be charged extra, so make sure you keep track of your withdrawals.
Pro Tip: Do not depend entirely on cash; take out what you need. Use your Revolut card when you can and save those ATM runs for when you need them.
Exchange Rates and Currency Conversion with Revolut
Compared to most currency exchange places or even some banks, Revolut gives you better exchange rates when converting your money into Thai Baht (THB).
However, weekends are a bit of a problem. Revolut adds a small markup (around 1%) to currency exchanges during weekends. To avoid this extra fee, Revolut needs to cover itself in case the foreign exchange market changes rates when it opens. Because the foreign exchange markets are closed, Revolut needs to protect itself.
Also, always pay in Thai Baht when you’re using your card in Thailand. Sometimes, you’ll get the option to pay in your home currency. Avoid it—it usually means you’re getting a worse exchange rate.
In short, stick to weekdays, choose Thai Baht, and let Revolut do its magic with those good rates!
Pros and Cons of Revolute’s exchange rate vs. other cards or cash
Pros: Revolut generally gives you a way better exchange rate than most banks or even cash exchanges. They use the interbank rate (or close to it), so you’re not losing out on hidden fees.
There’s no extra charge when you spend in Thai Baht as long as you stay under your monthly free limit. This can save you a lot compared to cards that slap on a foreign transaction fee every time you use them.
Cons: The main downside? That pesky weekend markup. If you’re not careful and exchange your money on the weekend, you could end up paying around 1% more. Also, keep in mind that once you hit your monthly withdrawal or spending limit (depending on your plan), Revolut starts charging extra fees.
While Revolut is great for card payments and ATMs, not every place in Thailand accepts cards, so cash is still essential.
Revolut’s rates are solid, especially compared to regular cards or airport exchanges. Just watch out for those weekend fees and make sure you’ve got some cash on hand when needed.
How to Avoid Additional Charges Using Revolut Cards?
Nobody likes surprise charges, right? Luckily, avoiding extra fees with your Revolut card in Thailand is pretty simple if you know what to look out for.
Always decline the ATM’s offer to convert your money into your home currency. It might seem like a helpful option, but it usually means you’re getting a worse exchange rate. Always choose to be charged in Thai Baht and let Revolut handle the conversion—it’ll save you a decent chunk of change.
Keep an eye on your monthly free withdrawal limit. Revolut gives you a certain amount of free ATM withdrawals per month (depending on your plan), but once you go over that, you’ll start getting hit with fees. If you’re a big spender or staying in Thailand for a while, make sure you know where you stand with those limits.
The Revolut currency exchange service charges a small fee for currency exchanges on weekends. So plan your exchanges during the week, and you’ll save money. As a result, don’t use the ATM currency conversion, watch your withdrawal limits, and do your business during the week for the best rates.
Conclusion: Is Revolut a Good Fit for Your Thailand Trip?
Revolut is a solid choice for your trip to Thailand. It offers good exchange rates and makes managing your money easy. You can use it for payments and to get cash from ATMs without much hassle.
Just keep a few things in mind: avoid using your card on weekends to dodge extra fees, and be aware of your free withdrawal limits to prevent unexpected charges.
Also, remember that not every place accepts cards, so it’s smart to carry some Thai Baht for those cash-only spots. With these tips, Revolut can be a handy tool for a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Using Revolut in Thailand
Q1: Does Revolut support Thai Baht?
Yes, Revolut supports Thai Baht (THB). You can use your Revolut card to make payments and withdraw cash in THB without any issues.
Q2: Which countries do not accept Revolut cards?
Revolut cards are widely accepted around the world, but some countries or specific places might not accept them. It’s always a good idea to check with Revolut or carry a backup payment method just in case.
Q3: What cards are accepted in Thailand?
In Thailand, major credit and debit cards like Visa and MasterCard are generally accepted, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and larger shops. American Express and others may be less commonly accepted, so having cash as a backup is wise.
Q4: Can you use Revolut to pay for taxis, Grab, or public transport?
Yes, you can use Revolut for taxis and Grab rides that accept card payments. For public transport, it depends on the system; some accept cards, while others may require cash.
Q5: Are there any hidden fees when using Revolut in Thailand?
Revolut is pretty transparent with its fees. The main thing to watch out for is the weekend currency conversion fee. If you exchange money on weekends, you might get a slightly worse rate.
Q6: How reliable is Revolut’s customer service while abroad?
Revolut’s customer service is generally reliable and available through their app. If you have any issues while traveling, you can reach out to their support team for help.
