Money & Budgeting Tips for Vietnam

Vietnam remains excellent value for travelers, but a little local knowledge about money goes a long way toward avoiding unnecessary fees and confusion.

Currency

The local currency is the Vietnamese dong (VND), and because denominations run into the thousands and millions, it takes a day or two to get comfortable with the numbers. Many tourist-facing businesses also accept US dollars, though you'll usually get a better rate paying in dong.

ATMs & Cards

ATMs are widely available in all cities and most towns, and are generally the best way to get cash at a fair exchange rate. Notify your bank before traveling, and expect a small withdrawal fee from local banks on top of anything your home bank charges. Credit cards are accepted in hotels and larger restaurants, but small vendors, markets and street food stalls are cash-only.

Typical Daily Budget

• Budget travel: $25-40/day - hostels, street food, local transport
• Mid-range: $60-120/day - 3-4 star hotels, restaurants, private transfers
• Luxury: $200+/day - 5-star hotels, private guides, fine dining

Tipping

Tipping isn't deeply embedded in Vietnamese culture but is increasingly appreciated in the tourism industry. A general guide: 10-15% at restaurants if service isn't already included, a few dollars per day for tour guides and drivers, and small change for porters.