Money and tipping for your Phuket wedding
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Cash or card?
- Cards work at most hotels, restaurants and larger shops; card skimming happens, so watch your card (Smartraveller).
- Contactless (including phone wallets) works at card terminals, but not on Thai QR codes.
- Cash for taxis, markets, street food and tips.
What do ATMs cost?
- Thai bank ATMs charge foreign cards about THB 220–250 per withdrawal, on top of anything your own bank charges; there are no fee-free ATMs. Limits are about THB 20,000–30,000 per withdrawal.
- Choose baht when offered conversion to your home currency.
Can we pay by QR code?
Thailand’s PromptPay QR codes are everywhere, but tourists can’t open Thai bank accounts. Some apps can scan PromptPay codes, including Wise’s “Scan to Pay” (Wise, Feb 2026). Otherwise use card or cash.
How do we pay our wedding vendors?
- “++” means 10% service charge, then 7% VAT: about 17.7% on top of the quoted price. Thailand’s 7% VAT rate is extended to 30 September 2027 (KPMG, Sep 2026). Compare quotes with both included.
- Bank transfers to Thai accounts are paid in baht.
- Deposits: terms vary (one photographer asks 40% to book, non-refundable). Get terms in writing.
Who do we tip at a Phuket wedding?
Tipping wedding vendors isn’t customary in the same way as at home; a cash tip shared among the team is appreciated when they go beyond expectations (The Wed, Aug 2026). No one publishes standard amounts.
| Who | Tip? | How |
|---|---|---|
| Resort and banquet staff | Not needed if a 10% service charge is on the bill | An extra envelope for the team if they went beyond |
| Wedding coordinator | Optional | A thank-you note, gift or review |
| Photographer, hair & makeup | Optional | Cash on the day, or a review and referral |
| Drivers and guides | Common | Guides about THB 100–200 per person a day |
| Monks at a blessing | Not a tip | An offering, arranged by your venue as part of the ceremony |
General tipping in Phuket
- Restaurants: about 10%, or round up, if no service charge.
- Porters and housekeeping: THB 20–50. Spa: 10–20%. Taxis: THB 10–50.
Sources: Post Office travel money guide; Phuket travel guides (Jan–Jun 2026).
Frequently asked questions
How much cash should guests bring?
Enough for a few days of taxis and tips; ATM fees make small, frequent withdrawals expensive.
Should we pay in Australian dollars?
No. Pay in baht and choose baht on card machines and ATMs.
Changelog
- : First published.