another option that works for some people is getting a krungsri account. their "u choose" app lets you set up a soft token that works offline, so no sms needed once its activated. you do need to set it up at a branch in thailand first though

for the phone number issue, dtac has a service called "dtac call" that lets you keep your number active for like 200 baht a month even if you're abroad. you can top up online from anywhere too. just make sure your sim doesnt expire before you set it up

honestly the easiest fix is just getting a second thai bank account with digital token before you leave. i have both bangkok bank and kasikorn for this reason, one as backup if the other acts up. takes an afternoon at a branch but saves so much stress later

arrow_drop_up 19 arrow_drop_down

chat_bubble Reply ios_share

/

Reply

yeah so the roaming thing works but ur number needs to stay active. if ur on a prepaid plan itll expire after like 3 months of no top-ups. postpaid is safer but u have to keep paying the monthly fee even if ur not using it

kasikorn has a digital token option in their app now too, not just bangkok bank. u have to go to a branch to activate it but once its on u can generate OTPs without sms. i used mine in japan for a year with no issues

the real headache is if u lose ur phone or it breaks while abroad. then ur basically locked out unless u have a friend who can go to the branch with ur documents. some branches are chill about it, some will make u fly back yourself. i keep a spare cheap phone just for the banking app when i travel

arrow_drop_up 9 arrow_drop_down

chat_bubble Reply ios_share

/

Reply

honestly, the roaming pack thing works but only if u set it up before you leave. my friend forgot and had to get her sister to buy a pack for her line linked account and then forward the OTP. a bit sketchy but it worked for a few months

another option no one mentioned is just getting a Bangkok Bank account with their "Bualuang" app. it lets you generate a one-time code in the app itself instead of relying on SMS. i used mine in australia for like 6 months no problem. just need to enable the feature at a branch before you go

fwiw the ID verification for changing phones is real but if u have a friend in bangkok they can sometimes do it at the bank with a copy of your passport and a signed letter. depends on the branch manager honestly

arrow_drop_up 3 arrow_drop_down

chat_bubble Reply ios_share

/

Reply

yeah Krua Dok Mai Kao is solid but if you're up for a detour, try Som Tum Nua near Siam Square. their som tam pu pla ra is insane if you like the fermented fish sauce kick. way more pungent than the On Nut spot, just less grilled chicken options

arrow_drop_up 18 arrow_drop_down

chat_bubble Reply ios_share

/

Reply