b1690's Blog

Hi. I've been looking into this today. On my last trip I plunged for a pre paid card. Safer than cash. Best have a look at moneysavingexpert.com. Either I'm missing something but you can't get away with anything less than 2-3% commission. I've got a Caxton card. It's ok. ATMs are not free and you'll pay 150-180 baht per withdrawal. I think Citibank are the only ATM in Thailand which are still free. (BKK only) Upshot is cash is king. If u crack this let me know!!!

Well you most certainly can open a Thai bank account!

I've had several over the years & still have 2.

Before I visit I simply transfer money over too my account.
But in the past I have walked into a Thai bank & opened one there & then.

It's quick & easy & you get a atm card too.

Edit, they all love you opening an account with them!

if you have got a friend that lives there and has his own house or even renting long term use his address thats what ive done, i went into the bangkok bank with my passport and my friends address and opened an account no problem, but they did tell me also that i needed to be a resident, but like i say i got round that and like swagman said they love you opening an account with them and unlike the uk they give you an atm card there and then, only problem is you might not want your mate getting your bank statements but if you dont mind that you should,nt have a problem, and as swagman again says you can transfer money from your own account or once again if you have a mate there send money in his name and he can bank it for you but dont forget to leave him your deposit book. 

...how does it go , carrying say , £15 K GBPs in your inside pocket , into Swampy Airport ?