Money & Costs
Currency, payments, ATMs, budgeting and tipping — the practical money basics.
Currency
The Vietnamese dong (VND) is the official currency. Prices are often quoted in thousands of dong; polymer banknotes are the norm and coins are rarely used in everyday change.
Payments
Cash is the most flexible option, especially at markets, street stalls and smaller shops. Cards are widely accepted at hotels, mid-range and upmarket restaurants, and larger stores. ATMs are common in cities and towns — tell your bank before travelling to avoid card blocks.
Budgeting
Costs vary widely by season, city and comfort level, so there is no single daily figure. Accommodation and internal transport fill up and cost more during peak season and holidays — book ahead. Keep some cash for markets, street food and short motorbike taxi rides.
Tipping & prices
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory: rounding up a bill or leaving small change is a common gesture, and guides or drivers are often tipped after a good day. Bargaining is normal in markets — keep it friendly, and agree prices in advance for rides where meters are not used.