How to carry cash in Vietnam?

Carry cash in Vietnam by prioritizing smaller, easily accessible denominations (10,000–100,000 VND) for daily purchases, while keeping larger notes and cards secure in a money belt or hotel safe. Vietnam is a cash-based economy; use local Vietnamese Dong (VND), ATMs in cities for withdrawals, and keep cash in, say, a hidden pouch to avoid pickpockets.

Is it better to carry cash or card in Vietnam?

Instead, it's best to carry enough cash for everyday transactions. Despite the lack of card facilities in many establishments, ATMs are common in Vietnam cities – but stock up before you head out to more rural areas.

What is the best way to get cash in Vietnam?

ATMs work great. If a store, restaurant takes credit cards and does not charge a fee it usually is cheaper than an ATM. MB bank has the lowest ATM fees. You can Google them in any city and find the closest location. Ones away from tourist centric areas allow you to withdraw more and that too makes it cheaper.

How to go cashless in Vietnam?

Visiting Vietnam is now simpler than ever with VNPAY, the country's leading super app. Designed with international travelers in mind, the app allows you to register in minutes using an international phone number, link your Visa/Mastercard/JCB, and enjoy seamless cashless payments across the country.

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.

Money in Vietnam: What Tourists MUST Know!

How much cash should I take to Vietnam for 3 weeks?

For a more comfortable backpacker experience in Vietnam, it's best to budget around $50 per day. This way, you'll have more money to spend on things like food, drinks, activities and hotel rooms. For a comfortable mid-range experience in Vietnam, it's best to budget $60 to $100 per day for your entire costs.

What can I buy with 5,000 dong in Vietnam?

Street Snacks - A Paradise Starting from Just 5,000 Vietnamese Dong. Banh trang tron, bubble tea, fried fermented pork rolls, Vietnamese sweet soup (che thap cam)… all can be found for just 5,000 to 25,000 Vietnamese Dong per item. With 100,000 Vietnamese Dong, you can enjoy a true “street food buffet” experience!

How much is the ATM fee for foreigners in Vietnam?

📌The best ATMs in Vietnam for foreigners are TPbank and VPbank because you can withdraw money without a fee Most ATMs in Vietnam charge a withdrawal fee between 20.000 and 50.000 VND (0.8-2$). 📌Visas and Mastercards will always be accepted by ATMs.

Is Vietnam cheap for the UK?

For UK visitors, Vietnam is considered to be a relatively cheap destination to travel to. The cost of living in Vietnam is relatively low, and this is reflected in the prices of food, accommodation and transport.

How long will $100,000 last in Vietnam?

🇻🇳 Vietnam – 6.3 years 3. 🇲🇽 Mexico – 5.8 years 4. 🇵🇹 Portugal – 4.3 years 5. 🇪🇸 Spain – 4.0 years 6.

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 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.

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

The 2/3/4 rule for credit cards is a guideline, notably used by Bank of America, that limits how many new cards you can get approved for: no more than two in 30 days, three in 12 months, and four in 24 months, helping manage hard inquiries and credit risk. It's a strategy to space out applications, preventing too many hard pulls on your credit report and helping maintain financial health by avoiding over-extending yourself. 

Is 2 million dong a lot in Vietnam?

So the first time you hit an ATM in Vietnam, you're a millionaire! Two million VND is less than $100 USD. All that to say, when I say something like “My apartment costs 7.5 million”, you shouldn't be alarmed.

What is the cheapest thing you can buy in Vietnam?

Top 18 Cheap Things to Buy in Vietnam that You Can Easily Find

1. Vietnamese Coffee & Phin Filters. ...
2. Coconut Candy. ...
3. Dried Tropical Fruit (Jackfruit, Mango, Lotus Seeds) ...
4. Local Vietnamese Spices. ...
5. Vietnamese Vegetables, Tubers, and Fruits. ...
6. Fruity Street Teas. ...
7. Traditional Fish Sauce. ...
8. Eco-Friendly Bamboo Products.

How much is a cup of coffee in Vietnam?

A local favorite, typically VND 15,000 – 30,000 ($0.60 – $1.20) at local cafes or street stalls. An absolute must-try! 🌟 Cà Phê Đen Đá (Vietnamese Iced Black Coffee): Stronger and bolder, without condensed milk. Similar price range, often a few thousand VND cheaper than cà phê sữa đá.

Is it better to use USD or VND 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. It is also preferable if the dollar bills are in good condition as many businesses may refuse to accept worn out 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.