Regular Savings & Lump Sums
Saving every month or investing a lump sum as a British expat in Thailand: international savings plans, investing a house sale or pension lump sum, saving in more than one currency, what the charges really cost and how easily you can get your money back.
in pounds
costs explained
in Thailand
Guides in this section
View all Wealth Management & Investments guides →
International Regular-Premium Savings Plans
How expat savings plans work — and the questions to ask.
Read the guide →
Lump-Sum Investment Planning for Expats
Investing a house sale, inheritance or pension lump sum.
Read the guide →
Regular Saving vs Lump-Sum Investing
Invest it all now, or a little at a time?
Read the guide →
Investment Contributions in Multiple Currencies
Saving in pounds, baht or dollars — and when to convert.
Read the guide →
Understanding Charges on Long-Term Savings Plans
Every layer of cost, and what it does over 20 years.
Read the guide →
Early Encashment and Liquidity Considerations
Getting your money out early — and what it costs.
Read the guide →Need Personalised Financial Advice?
Speak to our team for tailored guidance on travel money, banking and managing your finances in Thailand.
Insurance for Thailand
Get covered before you go — quotes for visitors, expats and businesses, arranged through our team.
Ways to Save and Invest as an Expat
The main routes British expats in Thailand use to save monthly or invest a lump sum — what each typically costs, who it suits and what to watch for.
Read the Savings Plans Guide →| Option | Type | Typical yearly cost | Best for | Watch for | Read Guide |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LFree review with Lawrence (JLIT) | Expat specialist in Thailand | Free first review | Deciding how and where to save or invest | Ask how any ongoing advice is paid for | Read → |
| PLow-cost platform, monthly or lump sum | Funds or ETFs on an international platform | Often under 1% in total | Long-term saving with easy access | Check the platform accepts Thai residents | Read → |
| SOffshore regular-premium savings plan | Insurance-based plan, fixed term | Can reach 2–3% with every layer | A few specific cases | Early-exit penalties and long lock-ins | Read → |
| CCash and Thai fixed deposits | Bank savings in baht or pounds | No charges; low interest | Short-term money and emergencies | Inflation over the long term | Read → |
General guidance compiled October 2026. Costs vary widely by provider and product — always ask for the total yearly cost in writing, in pounds, and the cost of leaving early.
Plan your Thailand trip with Just Landed
Everything else you need for Thailand, in one place.
FlightsTo and around Thailand
HotelsBook across Thailand
Car rentalAirports, cities, islands
Scooter rentalScooters and motorbikes
Travel insuranceCovered before you go
Adventure activitiesZip lines, rafting, sanctuaries
Tours & ticketsDay trips, shows, events
DivingCourses, fun dives, liveaboards
GolfCourses and tee times
FishingCharters, lakes, fishing parks
Motorbike routes72 routes on a 3D map
Medical tourismDental, cosmetic, orthopaedic
Health insuranceCover for life in Thailand
International schools178 schools compared
Family & petsMoving with children and petsfor expats
Practical, independent guides to help you make smarter financial decisions in Thailand.
Before you save or invest
Frequently Asked Questions
View all FAQs →Should I invest a lump sum all at once or a bit at a time?
Historically, investing all at once has more often come out ahead because markets have tended to rise over time — but spreading it in over a few months can make a fall easier to live with. Either way, only invest money you won't need for at least five years.
What is an international regular-premium savings plan?
A long-term plan, usually wrapped in offshore life insurance, where you pay in a fixed amount each month for a set number of years. Some have heavy charges in the early years and large penalties if you stop or cash in early.
How much do charges matter?
A great deal. On £200,000 growing at 5% a year, charges of 0.5% a year cost about £48,000 over 20 years; charges of 2.5% a year cost about £203,000 — more than the original sum.
Can I get my money out of a savings plan early?
Usually, but often at a cost. Many plans have early-encashment penalties that last for years. Always ask what you'd get back if you stopped after one, three and five years.
Should I save in pounds or baht?
Match the currency to when and where you'll spend the money. Short-term baht spending is best held in baht; long-term savings can be invested internationally.
How do I get a free review of my savings plan?
Use the enquiry form on this page. Lawrence, a British expat in Thailand with more than 30 years in international finance, will come back to you by email, WhatsApp or LINE.
Important: This guide is general information, not personal financial advice. Fees, limits and eligibility change; we check every figure on the date shown, but always confirm the current terms with the provider before you apply or travel. Some links on this page may be affiliate links, which means JLIT may earn a commission if you open an account — this never changes the price you pay.
