Is it better to pay in dollars or dong in Vietnam?

Paying in Vietnamese Dong (VND) is almost always better and more cost-effective for daily transactions, as using US Dollars (USD) often results in poor exchange rates. While USD is accepted for large items like hotels or tours, VND is required for small purchases, taxis, and local shops. Cash is dominant, so carrying local currency is essential.

Should I bring dong or USD to Vietnam?

It's better if you bring USD to Vietnam. Banks and foreign exchange businesses being the main ones, but surprisingly some of the best places to exchange currency are gold shops/jewelry. 2. You should spend an amount of time in getting familiar with the details on the money sheets. 3.

What is the best way to pay for things in Vietnam?

In Vietnam, cash is still king but credit cards are becoming more widely accepted in the cities. In Hanoi and Saigon, most restaurants, shops and hotels will take credit, but smaller places like street food stalls are usually cash only.

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

Yes, much better deals in Vietnam. Its supply and demand, nobody wants VND in Britain so there are costs related to bringing them there, storing them, paying UK rent, etc.

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!

What currency should tourists use in Vietnam?

The Vietnamese dong is the official currency of Vietnam, abbreviated to VND. Its currency symbol is ₫, which you may see on your trip. In Vietnam, it's illegal to list prices or ask for payment in any other currency.

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.

How do foreigners pay in Vietnam?

While cash is used for small purchases and street vendors in Vietnam, most establishments accept payments from major credit card providers such as Visa. Hotels, tour operators, boutiques, restaurants, grocery stores, and spas all generally accept international debit and credit cards.

How to avoid ATM fees in Vietnam?

Choose to pay in Vietnamese Dong

If an ATM asks you what currency you want to be charged in, choose to pay in the same currency you're withdrawing. This will help you get better exchange rates and avoid DCC fees.

What can I not bring to 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.

Can I exchange GBP in Vietnam?

Exchanging money in Vietnam

So if, for whatever reason, you're caught without dong, most hotels accept US dollars (but exchange rates are generally not good). British pounds, Canadian dollars and Australian dollars are not widely accepted, and where they are, the exchange rate is usually terrible.

Do hotels in Vietnam provide free water bottles?

Many accommodations have a large dispenser for free refills. And they provide 2 bottles of water in your room daily. You can also buy 2 liter or larger and refill your reusable bottle.

How much money to bring to Vietnam for 2 weeks in pounds?

How much spending money should I take to Vietnam? Budget for around £30 per person per day, or £210 per person per week for your visit to Vietnam, which will cover all food and excursions.

Should I get Vietnamese dong before going to Vietnam?

Although Vietnam's official currency is the Dong, the US Dollar is also accepted in some tourist centres and hotels, so we recommended taking some Dollars in cash (with some notes in small denominations) which you can change into Dong on arrival. US Dollar rates in the UK vary considerably, so it pays to shop around.

How much money do you need for 2 weeks in Vietnam?

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!

What is the best currency to take to Vietnam from UK?

Similarly credit cards can be used in major hotels, tourist shops and bigger restaurants. Do not rely on either if travelling to more remote and rural areas. US dollar is a widely accepted currency in Vietnam and most goods and services can be paid for in Dongs or Dollars.