Just landed - wondering what gives the better rate in Thailand: ATM withdrawal or airport exchange counter?
Just landed last week, skipped the airport booths (offering 21.3 THB/AUD - brutal). Withdrew 10,000 THB at a Bangkok Bank ATM, got a conversion of 23.1 THB/AUD after fees. Huge win. My rule now: only change $20-$30 at airport if needed, and use ATMs or good exchange counters once in the city.
ATM for rate, but bring cash if you're avoiding fees. If you’re using a low-fee card like Wise, the ATM gives a great rate - mine matched mid-market with maybe 0.5% difference. But the flat 220 THB fee hurts for small withdrawals. If you’re only pulling 2,000 THB, then airport exchange might be better. I brought some USD and exchanged at SuperRich in town, got 33.8 vs airport’s 32.1.
At BKK arrivals, the exchange rate was terrible - 31.8 THB/GBP when mid-market was 36.2. I withdrew from an SCB ATM right outside the terminal - even after the 220 THB fee, it worked out to 35.6. Massive difference. Honestly, just use an ATM from a major bank, or wait to exchange in the city at SuperRich or Vasu.
ATM wins hands down - even with 220 THB fee. I landed in Bangkok and checked the SuperRich exchange counter at Suvarnabhumi - their USD to THB rate was approx. 34.2. Used my Schwab card at a Krungsri ATM, got 33.9 after conversion + the 220 THB fee. Still better than airport counters. And Schwab refunded my fee! ATMs always beat airport exchange unless you're desperate.