Vietnam Travel Budget
Updated April 23, 2026
Vietnam is still one of Southeast Asia's best-value destinations. Backpackers can travel well on $35–50/day, mid-range travelers on $75–130, and boutique travelers on $200+. The biggest cost differences are accommodation (wide range) and drinking (imported alcohol is expensive).
Daily budgets
| | Backpacker | Mid-range | Boutique | |---|---|---|---| | Accommodation | $12–20 | $30–70 | $120+ | | Food (3 meals) | $12 | $25 | $50 | | Transport | $5 | $10 | $25 | | Activities/day | $8 | $20 | $50 | | Daily total | ~$40 | ~$95 | ~$250 |
What's cheap
Street food ($1–3 per bowl), local transport, museum entry, coffee, SIM cards, laundry, massage.
What's not
Imported beer and wine, branded hotels, international-standard spas, private driver hire (still good value but a jump from public transport), and scuba in Nha Trang.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a trip to Vietnam cost per day?
Backpackers: $35–50. Mid-range: $75–130. Boutique: $200+. These include accommodation, food, transport, and a couple of tours — but exclude flights in and out of the country.
What's the most expensive thing in Vietnam?
Overnight Ha Long Bay cruises ($120–300 per person), imported alcohol, and beachfront resorts in Phu Quoc and Da Nang. Everyday food and local transport remain very cheap.
Should I carry cash or use cards in Vietnam?
Both. Cards work at mid-range+ restaurants, hotels, and tour operators in cities. Cash (Vietnamese dong) is essential for street food, buses, markets, and tours outside the big cities.