Do I need cash in Saigon?

Yes, you absolutely need cash (Vietnamese Dong - VND) in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), despite the city's increasing shift toward digital payments. While hotels, upscale restaurants, and modern malls accept credit cards, cash is essential for street food, local markets, taxis, small cafes, and tips.

Is it better to take cash or card to Vietnam?

Upon arriving in Vietnam, you'll want to have some cash in the local currency. You can find ATMs accepting international cards just outside the arrival gates at all major airports. ATMs are a common sight in Vietnamese cities, and you should have no trouble locating one in most destinations.

How cashless is Ho Chi Minh City?

2. You don't need to carry cash. Ho Chi Minh City is very close to becoming a cashless destination with the widespread use of online payment methods. Almost any walk-in business, from a luxury restaurant to a street vendor, accepts local bank transfers.

Is $100 a lot of money in Vietnam?

Your $100 can go a long way in Vietnam. Budget travelers can expect to spend up to $25 a day on food and lodging.

Is $1000 enough for 2 weeks in Vietnam?

On average, a budget traveler can expect to spend around $49 per day in Vietnam. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, activities, and miscellaneous expenses. So expect to spend around $700 for 2 weeks in Vietnam. Including airfares, your 2 weeks in Vietnam could cost about $1700 – $2500 per person.

Get VIETNAMESE DONG at the Best Rate & Avoid ATM Fees in Ho Chi Minh! Travel Money Tips

How much is 1 pound to a dong?

£ 1 GBP = ₫ 35236.8239 VND

Last updated Monday, 19 January 2026 13:53. Rates shown are interbank rates. eurochange rates will differ.

Is it better to buy Vietnamese dong in the UK or Vietnam?

If you can exchange for dong easily in your home country, we recommend doing so. But, you do have plenty of options to get hold of dong in Vietnam.

What is one of the biggest mistakes you can make in Vietnam?

Let me walk you through the most common tourist mistakes in Vietnam and, more importantly, how to avoid them.

• Trying to See the Entire Country in One Trip. ...
• Falling for Motorbike Rental Scams. ...
• Not Understanding Vietnamese Currency. ...
• Ignoring Traffic Rules and Safety. ...
• Eating at Tourist-Trap Restaurants.

How much is a meal in Saigon?

Breakfast: Generally the most affordable meal, ranging VND 20,000 - 100,000 (USD 0.82 - 4.11) Lunch: Mid - range pricing with substantial portions, typically VND 40,000 - 150,000 (USD 1.65 - 6.17) Dinner: Often the most expensive meal, especially at restaurants, ranging VND 50,000 - 200,000+ (USD 2.06 - 8.23+)

Is it better to use USD or dong in Vietnam?

US dollar is a widely accepted currency in Vietnam and most goods and services can be paid for in Dongs or Dollars. It is good to carry a combination of both at all times.

Is it safe to walk in Ho Chi Minh City at night?

Is it safe to walk in Ho Chi Minh City at night? Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe at night, but it's always important for you to remain vigilant and take precautions. You should stick to well-lit areas, avoid isolated streets, and keep an eye on your belongings.

What is the 20% credit card rule?

Simply put, the 20/10 rule advises that you should avoid accumulating long-term debt that exceeds 20% of your annual income, and you should avoid debt payments of more than 10% of your monthly income.

Should I exchange cash before going to Vietnam?

Tips: Avoid currency exchange at Vietnam's airport. Instead, opt for local markets for better rates. Allocate 70% of your travel budget to USD currency notes.

What is the 2/3/4 rule for credit cards?

The 2/3/4 rule: According to this rule, applicants are limited to two new cards in 30 days, three new cards in 12 months and four new cards in 24 months. The six-month or one-year rule: Some credit card issuers may let borrowers open a new credit card account only once every six months or once a year.

What items are not allowed in Vietnam?

Prohibited items include:

• Explosives and items containing explosives.
• Flammable substances in the form of gases, liquids or solids.
• Oxidizers, organic peroxides and related items.
• Corrosives, infectious or toxic substances and related items.
• Radioactive materials, magnetized materials.

Is it okay to wear red in Vietnam?

Delicate suits and jackets are recommended, especially when you have to visit your friend's houses during the festival. We recommend you to pack some red clothes or jackets as this colour is considered as the appearance of luckiness according to Vietnamese culture.

What does 🤞 mean in Vietnam?

In Vietnam the gesture is considered rude, especially to another person. Referring to female genitals, it is comparable to the middle finger in American culture. In German-speaking countries, as well as Sweden and Latvia, the gesture is a sign of lying. Instead, wishing for luck is gestured by holding one's thumbs.

What to avoid eating in Vietnam?

TOP DRINK OR FOOD TO AVOID IN VIETNAM FOR A SAFE FOOD TOUR

• Tap Water. ...
• Block Ice. ...
• Uncooked Vegetables and unwashed herbs. ...
• Uncooked seafood. ...
• Raw Blood Pudding (Tiet Canh) ...
• Dog Meat. ...
• Wild animals and strange meat. ...
• 8. Fruits with edible skins.

Why is gold cheap in Vietnam?

Vietnam does not produce/mine enough gold to meet its domestic requirements. As the country has to import over sixty percent of its gold, Vietnam's gold price is mostly influenced by the world price movements, in turn increasing or decreasing domestically.

How to carry money in Vietnam?

Tip 1: Don't exchange USD for Dong inside the airport in Vietnam. Go into the nearby local market and you'll find currency exchange outlets which offer superb rates. Tip 2: Carry 70% of your total travel budget in the form of US dollar currency notes.

Should I exchange GBP to VND now or wait?

Try to buy when the pound is strong against the dong if you can, to save a little more.