The world has recently seen an increasing demand for forex cards, and this trend is not only limited to countries with strong currencies like the US and UK but has also extended to popular Asian destinations such as Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. This is simply because of the numerous benefits of using a Forex card, such as:

• Forex cards offer better exchange rates than cash or credit cards, helping you save significantly on currency conversion.

• They eliminate the risks associated with carrying large amounts of cash, providing a safer way to manage expenses abroad. 

• Unlike credit or debit cards, forex cards are not subject to hefty international transaction fees, making them a more economical choice.

Moreover, think of forex cards as your one-stop solution for handling all international currency needs. Every time you plan an international trip, you do not have to worry about finding a reliable and economical currency exchange point or carrying large amounts of cash.

So, in this blog, we have covered the best forex cards for one more country, Thailand. To get started, here is a quick list of the best Forex cards for Thailand from India:

1. AtlysX Multi-Currency Travel Card by IndusInd

2. ICICI Multi-Currency Forex Prepaid Card

3. HDFC Multicurrency Platinum ForexPlus Card

4. BookMyForex Multi-Currency Forex Card

5. DCB Niyo Global Card

6. Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card

7. Thomas Cook One Currency Card

1. AtlysX Multi-Currency Travel Card by IndusInd

Website: atlys.com/x

The AtlysX Multi-Currency Travel Card by IndusInd is one of the best forex cards for frequent travellers to Thailand. It supports Thailand Baht (THB), and its user-friendly, transparent fee structure and advanced digital features help it stand out from other traditional cards. 

Fees

The AtlysX Multi-Currency Travel Card by IndusInd has no hidden costs!

• Issuance fee: Free for all Atlys customers.

• Cross-currency charges: None. 

• Markup fee: Zero markup fee for the first load of funds, and a 2% markup is charged on subsequent reloads.

Features

• Multi-currency support: In addition to THB, the AtlysX Multi-Currency Travel Card supports 13 different currencies (including USD and EUR), making it ideal for multi-destination trips. With this extensive currency coverage, you can avoid conversion fees in countries where these 14 currencies are accepted.

• Exchange rate transparency: With the Atlys app, you can check live rates in real time, so you always know the exact conversion. This helps you decide the best time to load your card and get the most value for your money.

• Security features: The AtlysX card offers comprehensive control through the app, allowing users to change PINs instantly, disable ATM withdrawals or contactless transactions and freeze the card immediately if lost or stolen.

• Convenience: The Atlys app is the central hub for managing the card. From applying for the card, tracking expenses and live exchange rates to reloading the card and accessing customer support, the app simplifies the entire user journey.

• Customer support: The card offers round-the-clock support through multiple channels, including the Help section in the Atlys app, chat, email, and a 24/7 hotline. This ensures assistance is always available, regardless of the time zone or issue.

2. ICICI Multi-Currency Forex Prepaid Card

Website: icicibank.com

The ICICI Bank Multi-Currency Forex Prepaid Card is another convenient and secure way of managing your currency in Thailand. It offers support for up to 15 currencies, including THB, on a single card. 

Fees

• Issuance fee: None.

• Cross-currency fee: 3.5% for transactions in currencies not loaded on the card.

• ATM withdrawal fee: Up to $2 (or equivalent) per withdrawal.

Features

• Multi-currency support: The card supports 15 currencies, including USD, GBP, AUD, AED, ZAR, SEK, HKD, and SAR, among others. This makes it ideal for multi-destination trips. 

Note: There is a 3.5% cross-currency fee for transactions made in unsupported currencies. 

• Security features: The card offers robust security measures, including 3D secure technology (adds an extra layer of protection for online transactions), CHIP & PIN technology (ensures secure in-store purchases, reducing the risk of fraud) and Lost Card Liability Coverage if the card is lost, stolen, or counterfeited. 

• Convenience: You can also manage the card, reload funds, and check balances online through the ICICI Bank portal or app. Further, the card allows contactless payments at PayWave-enabled merchants without swiping or inserting the card.

• Customer support: You can manage your ICICI Multi-Currency Forex Prepaid Card easily through the Self-Care Portal. Moreover, during your international travel, you can also access emergency cash delivery and other concierge services (subject to nominal charges). 

• Additional benefits: On using the ICICI Forex card, you get special deals on flights, hotels, accommodations, dining, and shopping. As an added convenience, you can use the remaining balance on your card at Duty-Free stores across all Indian airports, allowing you to pick up last-minute souvenirs for your loved ones before heading home. 

3. HDFC Multicurrency Platinum ForexPlus Card

Website: hdfcbank.com

Next in line is the HDFC Multicurrency Platinum ForexPlus Card, allowing you to load up to 22 currencies on a single card. Whether you're shopping, dining, or withdrawing cash overseas, this card ensures a smooth and worry-free travel experience.

Fees

• Issuance fee: ₹500 (plus GST).

• Cross-currency charges: 2% for unsupported currencies.

• ATM withdrawal fee: $2 per transaction or equivalent.

Features

• Multi-currency support: The card supports 22 currencies, including THB, USD, Euro, GBP, AED, and more, making it ideal for travellers visiting multiple countries. Additionally, the card allows seamless transfers between currency wallets through the Prepaid Card NetBanking facility, giving you flexibility to manage your funds.

• Security features: The card is embedded with a chip and requires PIN authentication for all transactions at ATMs and POS terminals. In case the card is lost, it can be immediately blocked through online NetBanking. Moreover, you receive complimentary insurance coverage, which includes protection against skimming and card misuse, baggage loss, passport loss, and even air accident insurance.

• Convenience: The card supports contactless payments via PayWave technology. The instant reload option ensures you can top up your card anytime, anywhere, without any hassle.

• Customer support: HDFC offers round-the-clock customer support. You can access toll-free numbers in 32 countries for prompt assistance. The card also includes emergency cash delivery services in case of loss or damage. 

• Additional benefits: The HDFC Multicurrency Platinum ForexPlus Card comes with premium benefits like global concierge services. This includes assistance with hotel bookings, car rentals, event planning, and even flower delivery.

4. BookMyForex Multi-Currency Forex Card

Website: bookmyforex.com

The BookMyForex Multi-Currency Forex Card is popular for its zero issuance or reload fees and robust security features. This card ensures a smooth travel experience, whether you're on vacation or a business trip.

Fees

• Issuance fee: None.

• Cross-currency fees: 3.5% of the transaction value for unsupported currencies.

• ATM withdrawal fee: $2 (or equivalent) per transaction.

Features

• Multi-currency support: The BookMyForex Multi-Currency Forex Card supports up to 14 major currencies, including THB, USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, CAD, and SGD. This means you can load multiple currencies on a single card and switch seamlessly between them based on your destination. 

• Security features: The card is equipped with Chip-and-PIN technology, ensuring secure transactions at ATMs and Point-of-Sale (POS) terminals worldwide. Additionally, the card comes with free insurance coverage, providing protection against unauthorised usage in case of loss or theft.

• Convenience: The card is available for same-day delivery, ensuring that even your last-minute travel plans remain stress-free. Moreover, you can easily reload or manage your card online, adding to its convenience.

• Customer support: BookMyForex offers excellent customer support to assist you during your travels. For any queries, you may write to [email protected] or contact the 24x7 bank support number at +91-80-45651100 from your registered phone number.

• Additional benefits: The card's free lifetime usage policy makes it one of the most cost-effective options in the market. 

5. DCB Niyo Global Card

Website: goniyo.com

The DCB Niyo Global Card is a forex card that is loadable in Indian Rupees (INR) and automatically converts funds into local currencies abroad, making it a cost-effective and convenient travel companion.

Fees

• Joining fee: None.

• Markup fee: Zero.

• ATM withdrawal fee: ₹425 + GST per transaction.

Features

• Currency management: Since it is loaded in INR and works at real-time exchange rates, you don’t need to worry about managing multiple currency wallets. 

• Security features: Your financial safety is a priority with the DCB Niyo Global Card. It comes with advanced security features such as PIN-based transactions and real-time alerts for every transaction. You can also instantly freeze or unfreeze your card through the Niyo app.

• Convenience: Track your expenses in real-time, reload funds instantly, and monitor your transaction history anytime via the Niyo app. 

• Customer support: Niyo provides 24/7 dedicated customer support to ensure a hassle-free experience at [email protected] and 1800 1033 817. 

• Additional benefits: Starting in April 2024, the card offers complimentary international lounge access for travellers (T&C apply). Plus, on ATM withdrawals abroad and domestic merchant payments, you earn Niyo coins, where each coin is equivalent to 10 Indian Paise. 

6. Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card

Website: axisbank.com

The Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card is another great forex option for Thailand. With supporting THB, competitive exchange rates, secure transactions, and convenient management features, this card ensures a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

Fees

• Issuance fee: ₹300 (plus GST).

• Cross-Currency Charges: 3.5% of the transaction value for unsupported currencies.

• ATM withdrawal fee: $2.25 per transaction or its equivalent in the loaded currency.

Features

• Multi-currency support: The Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card supports 16 major currencies, including USD, THB, EUR, GBP, SGD, AUD, and more. You can load and manage these currencies on a single card, eliminating the need for multiple cards or constant currency conversions. 

• Security features: This card is also equipped with advanced EMV chip technology, which adds an extra layer of protection against fraudulent transactions. All transactions are PIN-based, making it secure for both ATM withdrawals and POS purchases. 

• Convenience: Reloading and managing your Axis Bank Forex Card is incredibly simple. You can reload it online via the Axis Bank portal or app. 

• Customer support: Get 24/7 emergency assistance from TripAssist in case you lose your card or money. 

• Additional benefits: One standout feature of the Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card is its rewards program. You earn reward points on transactions, which can be redeemed for exciting offers. 

7. Thomas Cook One Currency Card

Website: thomascook.in

The Thomas Cook One Currency Card eliminates cross-currency conversion charges; it ensures a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Fees

• Issuance fee: None.

• Cross-currency fee: Zero.

• ATM withdrawal fee: $3 per transaction.

Features

• Currency support: The Thomas Cook One Currency Card exclusively supports the US Dollar, making it perfect for travellers who frequently visit the United States or countries where USD is commonly accepted. Luckily, even if you want to transact in the local currency in Thailand, you can do so freely, as no cross-currency fee is charged. 

• Security features: The card comes with chip-and-PIN protection, ensuring secure transactions at ATMs and POS terminals. Online transactions are safeguarded by 3D secure authentication, adding another layer of security. Additionally, you receive real-time SMS and email alerts for all transactions, keeping you informed. 

• Convenience: The Thomas Cook One Currency Card is accepted by over 35.2 million Mastercard merchants in 200+ countries and allows withdrawals from 2 million Mastercard ATMs worldwide. 

• Customer support: For immediate assistance, 24/7 global customer service is available, including toll-free services in India and WhatsApp support at 8879142236.

• Additional benefits: In case of emergencies, you are provided cash assistance, allowing you to withdraw up to the available balance. Lost or stolen cards are replaced free of charge, ensuring minimal disruption to your trip. 

Tips for using Forex card in Thailand

1. Load your card with Thai Baht before travelling

Make sure to load your Forex card with Thai Baht (THB) before you travel. This avoids extra currency conversion charges during transactions. Many forex cards support multiple currencies, but using the local currency saves you from paying conversion fees each time you spend. Double-check the exchange rates when loading the card to get the best value. 

2. Understand ATM withdrawal fees

In Thailand, most ATMs charge a fee of around 200-300 Thai Baht per withdrawal for foreign cards. To minimise these charges, try withdrawing larger amounts instead of making multiple small withdrawals. Stick to ATMs from major banks like Bangkok Bank or Krungsri to ensure reliability. 

3. Avoid Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC)

When using your Forex card at ATMs or for purchases, you might be asked whether you want the transaction charged in your home currency or Thai Baht. Always choose the Thai Baht. If you select your home currency, you’ll pay higher fees due to a process called Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC), where the ATM or terminal converts the amount at an ‘unfavourable rate’. 

4. Keep a backup payment option

Although forex cards are convenient, some merchants in Thailand, especially in smaller towns or markets, might not accept them. It’s wise to carry a small amount of cash in Thai Baht for emergencies or places where cards aren’t accepted. Additionally, carry a backup credit or debit card for unexpected situations, such as your Forex card being lost, stolen, or temporarily blocked. 

5. Use Forex cards for big purchases

For larger expenses like hotel stays, shopping at malls, or dining at upscale restaurants, using your Forex card is a smart choice. It’s safer and more convenient than carrying large amounts of cash. Additionally, by using the card for high-value payments, you keep track of your spending and ensure better currency exchange rates compared to cash exchanges.

6. Enable alerts and monitor transactions

Activate SMS or email alerts for your Forex card before travelling. This helps you stay informed about every transaction and quickly spot any unauthorised usage. Regularly check your balance and transaction history online or through the app provided by your card issuer. 

Conclusion

The Forex cards mentioned above are some of the best options for Indians travelling to Thailand, offering features like competitive exchange rates, multi-currency support, and robust security. However, purchasing the right card is just the first step. To ensure a hassle-free and cost-effective trip, follow the tips provided for using your Forex card wisely. By keeping track of fees, enabling alerts, and avoiding unnecessary charges, you can make the most out of your card while enjoying a seamless travel experience.