Is it better to take Dollars or dong to Vietnam?

Exchanging money in Vietnam US dollars are by far the most widely accepted foreign currency for exchange in Vietnam, followed (very distantly) by the Euro. So if, for whatever reason, you're caught without dong, most hotels accept US dollars (but exchange rates are generally not good).

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

Vietnam is a different story as legally the only currency that can be used is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). You can bring your GBP to Vietnam and exchange them, or get VND ffrom ATM machines. If you happen to have USD in your pocket, you can exchange them for VND as well, no worries.

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. Middle-budget spenders can enjoy good restaurant food, hire cabs, and stay comfortably in good hotels for about $35-65 a day.

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.

How much dong should I bring to Vietnam?

Budget Travellers

Those looking for a low cost trip should budget around VND ₫1,000,000 per day. This will get you a comfortable bed in budget accommodation, such as a dorm room-style hostel or a room in a host family's Airbnb, enjoy Vietnamese food from local stalls, and the opportunity to travel by bus.

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Is it better to carry USD or dong in Vietnam?

US dollars are by far the most widely accepted foreign currency for exchange in Vietnam, followed (very distantly) by the Euro. So if, for whatever reason, you're caught without dong, most hotels accept US dollars (but exchange rates are generally not good).

Is 100,000 dong a good tip in Vietnam for tourists?

Porters and Bellhops: At hotels, it's customary to tip porters and bellhops around 20,000 VND to 50,000 VND per bag, depending on the hotel's standard. Local Guides: When engaging local guides for city walks or specialized tours, a tip of 50,000 VND to 100,000 VND is considered respectful.

Is it better to use cash or credit card in Vietnam?

Card payments 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.

Is cash still king in Vietnam?

Cash is king in Vietnam

In 2021, the FIS Global Payments Report found that 58% of Vietnam's point-of-sale (POS) transactions were made in cash. By the end of April 2021, 11.53% of all payments in Vietnam were made in cash.

Is tipping expected in Vietnam?

Do you tip in Vietnam? It's normal to tip for good service in restaurants, bars and cafes in Vietnam - especially in touristy or business areas. Tips are also appreciated in hotels and serviced apartments - and other places where staff may not be so well rewarded, like spas or salons.

What can you buy in Vietnam with 1000 dong?

These are low value notes: 1,000đ, 2,000đ and 5,000đ. With these tickets, it is possible to buy sweets, vegetables at the local markets, pay the parking fees for the motorcycle, or even make an offering in pagodas or temples. Good to know: The 1,000 and 2,000 bills are very similar.

Should I get Vietnamese Dong before going to Vietnam?

You should always be prepared to pay for your travel expenses in Vietnamese money. Be sure to exchange your USD for VND as early as you can to ensure you have the banknotes you need while traveling in the country.

How much money to bring to Vietnam for 2 weeks from the UK?

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.

What to not bring to Vietnam?

What are the unspoken rules in Vietnam?

The Vietnamese are not demonstrative so no kissing on the cheek/hugs/backslapping when you say hello. - Low cut tops on women You'll never see a Vietnamese woman show off her cleavage! - Don't give sweeties or pencils etc. to kids you come across whilst touring. Give any treats to their accompanying adults.

How many dong is a normal meal in Vietnam?

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+)

Which card is best for Vietnam?

Debit cards are useful for withdrawing VND in cash. You can also use them for direct payments at modern stores, hotels, or restaurants. Just remember that not all places accept them. You can use your US bank debit card or Mastercard debit card in Vietnam, but always check with your bank about international fees.

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

Vietnamese Dong is the best currency to use with no doubts. Most payments are made in Vietnamese Dong, but US dollars can be directly used for some hotels, restaurants, tours, or other services.

How much is a bottle of water in Vietnam?

A bottle of water costs 10,000 to 20,000 dong (don't forget that you can't drink tap water here!), a beer usually between 10,000 and 30,000 dong. Soft drinks are generally slightly more expensive.

Can I buy Vietnamese dong in the UK?

Buy Vietnamese Dong online and get it delivered right to your door with home delivery from Asda Travel Money. Choose next day home delivery from £4.99 (for orders placed before 2pm Monday to Thursday) or FREE home delivery for orders of £500 or more.

Is GBP getting stronger against USD?

The GBP/USD exchange rate fell to 1.3499 on August 29, 2025, down 0.03% from the previous session. Over the past month, the British Pound has strengthened 1.83%, and is up by 2.83% over the last 12 months. Historically, the British Pound reached an all time high of 2.86 in December of 1957.