Explore Vietnam on a Budget: Your Guide to Affordable Travel

Whether you choose to live like royalty or scrimp on a shoestring in Vietnam, you’re going to have a memorable trip. Once you’ve covered the cost of getting here, you can explore for less than US$40 a day, staying in dorms and enjoying local cuisine such as pho (noodle soup) and banh mi (baguette sandwiches), or splurge on heritage hotels, adventure tours, and banquet dining.

Either way, you’ll indulge in fabulous food, colorful cities, complex cultures, and landscapes that appear straight out of a medieval woodcut, making Vietnam one of Asia’s most captivating destinations.

The important thing to remember is that how much you spend is largely within your own control. If you’re happy with a dorm bed, bus travel, and street food dinners, the basic costs of living in Vietnam will not make a significant dent in your wallet. However, if you crave creature comforts, organized activities, and top-end dining, your expenses will increase significantly. Here are our top tips for exploring Vietnam on a budget.

Time Your Trip Right

Vietnam experiences a monsoon season that varies by region. Flight and accommodation prices soar during the pleasant weather and drop during the rainy season, though you can typically find somewhere to explore even during downpours. Flight prices peak during July and August, coinciding with the warmest weather on the central coast. Additionally, price spikes often occur around local holidays when travel demand increases.

Fly into Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC)

Choosing Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) for your arrival is often more economical than flying into Hanoi. HCMC has the busiest airport, leading to more competitive flight prices. Nonetheless, it is essential to note that living costs in HCMC can be higher than those in Hanoi. Thus, plan your itinerary wisely to maximize savings.

Consider Land Border Crossings

You don’t need to fly directly into Vietnam – easy land border crossings from neighboring countries like Laos, Cambodia, and China are available. Budget travelers can find cheap flights to smaller Chinese cities, with convenient bus or train connections available to northern Vietnam.

Avoid Lingering in Major Cities

Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City tend to be pricier than other parts of the country. Prioritize essential sights and street food, then journey to quieter areas that will not strain your budget.

Utilize Open Tour Buses

While you won’t get much cultural immersion riding an “open tour” bus, these routes save time and help avoid the hassle of negotiating fares. Many long-distance routes operate overnight, allowing you to save on accommodation while traveling.

Travel Overnight

Overnight travel on sleeper buses or trains is an affordable way to save on accommodation while allowing for valuable daylight sightseeing. Reclining seats and fully flat berths can significantly enhance your travel experience.

Leverage Hostels

Hostels have become increasingly popular in Vietnam, offering budget-friendly options that can include on-site bars, restaurants, and pools. Many hostels also provide private rooms at competitive rates, making them a viable option for various travelers.

Experience Homestays

Staying in homestays located in Vietnam’s picturesque hills offers a unique and authentic experience at a modest price. Many regions, including the Mekong Delta and the Central Highlands, provide opportunities for immersion into local life, often accompanied by home-cooked meals.

Enjoy Street Food

Street food is a lifeline in Vietnam. For minimal cost, you can indulge in various delights, from pho and banh mi to grilled pork with vermicelli noodles. Street vendors often create a vibrant dining atmosphere with plastic tables and chairs for a social experience.

Order Through Local Apps

Using local food apps to order meals can often be less expensive than dining in. Services like Grab Food and BAEMIN provide quick delivery, giving you the ability to enjoy delicious meals without leaving your accommodation.

Be Cautious of “Optional” Extras

Dining at upscale restaurants can lead to unexpected expenses due to non-complimentary extras. Always verify which items are included to avoid surprises on your bill.

Seek Affordable Adventure

The vast landscapes of Vietnam offer endless opportunities for adventure, often without the need for organized tours. Rent bicycles, use public ferries, or embark on self-guided treks to explore the countryside, providing a more personal experience and saving money.

Embrace Free Attractions

Many of Vietnam’s museums and historical sites have modest entry fees, while numerous temples, pagodas, and beautiful architecture are free to explore. Engage with local culture and history at no extra cost.

Develop Negotiation Skills

Haggling is an accepted practice in Vietnam. Treat price negotiations as a playful challenge, keeping it friendly and respectful to ensure a positive experience for both parties.

Save on Transportation

While metered taxis are affordable, be cautious as some drivers may not adhere to meter rates. Using the Grab app can provide additional savings and assurance of competitive rates.

Dine on Bia Hoi

For an inexpensive night out, try bia hoi, Vietnam’s homemade draft beer, typically much cheaper than bottled varieties. Enjoying it at local spots enhances your travel experience while being budget-friendly.

Estimated Daily Costs in Vietnam

• Hostel dorm bed: US$5-10

• Basic room for two: US$10–20

• Village homestay: US$5–20

• Room at a beach resort: from US$80

• A local bus ticket: from US$1

• A cup of ca phe (drip coffee): US$0.70

• A banh mi sandwich: from US$0.70

• A sit-down dinner for two: US$15

• A bottle of beer in a bar: US$1

• A glass of bia hoi (local beer): from US$0.30

• Average daily cost: US$40–70