Quick answer: Budget travelers need just $30–45/day, mid-range $70–110/day. Vietnam is very cash-based — carry dong, and use ATMs for top-ups.
Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries to travel, and largely runs on cash.
More: When to visit Vietnam · Vietnam travel guide
Daily budget
Budget: $30–45/day; mid-range: $70–110/day; luxury: $200+. A week (excluding flights) is roughly $250–770.
Cash vs card
Cards work in hotels and tourist restaurants, but markets, street food and small towns are cash only. ATMs are common; some cap withdrawals low, so factor in fees.
How much cash to bring
Carry Vietnamese dong for daily spending; the large denominations are confusing at first, so count carefully to avoid overpaying.
Tips
Keep small notes for street vendors, and use Grab for transparent pricing. See our cost of a trip to Vietnam guide.
How much money to bring to Vietnam
Budget roughly $30-50/day mid-range — Vietnam is very cheap, so a 2-week trip runs about $420-700 per person excluding flights.
Cash vs card
Vietnam is heavily cash-based (dong) — carry cash for street food, markets, transport and most small spots; cards work in hotels and upscale restaurants. ATMs are common (withdrawal fees vary; some have low limits). Bring some USD to exchange. Note the many zeros — double-check notes.
Tipping
Not expected but appreciated — round up, tip guides and drivers a little.
How Much Money Should You Bring to Vietnam? FAQ
Is Vietnam cash-based?
Largely yes — carry dong for street food, markets and transport; cards for hotels.
How much cash for Vietnam?
A few days’ worth at a time; ATMs are common for top-ups.
Related travel guides
How to actually pay for it: the amount is one question and the mechanics are another. Our guide to money in Vietnam covers the two blue notes travellers confuse, the three separate fees stacked on every ATM withdrawal, why you should always decline the home-currency conversion offer, and where cards simply will not be accepted.
