The Real Cost of Traveling Vietnam on a Budget (And How to Save More)

Introduction

Vietnam is often hyped as one of the cheapest countries to visit, but is it really as budget-friendly as people say? Yes and no. While you can get a bowl of pho for $2, a hostel bed for $5, and an all-day motorbike rental for $8, not everything in Vietnam is as cheap as travel bloggers make it sound.

The truth is, if you don’t know how to travel smart, you’ll end up paying inflated "foreigner prices," getting overcharged for tours, or spending way more than necessary on transport. I learned this the hard way when I paid triple for a taxi, got scammed on a “local” tour, and unknowingly ate at a restaurant that charged tourists 3x more than locals.

Vietnam is affordable—but only if you know where the hidden costs are and how to avoid unnecessary spending.

This guide will break down:
✅ How much it really costs to travel Vietnam on a budget.
✅ Where your money goes the fastest (and how to stop overspending).
✅ The best budget-friendly ways to eat, stay, and get around.
✅ Common money traps and how to avoid getting ripped off.

If you’re planning a budget trip to Vietnam, this is the real cost breakdown—so you don’t make the same mistakes I did.

How Much Does It Really Cost to Travel Vietnam on a Budget?

Before my first trip to Vietnam, I assumed I could travel for next to nothing—after all, everyone talks about how cheap it is. And while it’s definitely one of the most affordable destinations in Southeast Asia, I quickly realized not everything is as cheap as it seems.

Some costs, like food and public transport, are shockingly low, while others, like tourist attractions, taxis, and tours, can drain your budget faster than expected if you’re not careful.

Let’s break down exactly how much you need per day in Vietnam—and where you might be spending more than necessary.

Daily Budget Breakdown

💰 Backpacker Budget: $25–$40 per day

• 🍜 Street food & local restaurants – $5–$10
• 🏠 Hostel dorm or budget guesthouse – $5–$15
• 🚆 Public transport & occasional taxis – $2–$5
• 🎟️ Cheap activities (temples, museums, self-guided sightseeing) – $3–$7

💰 Mid-Range Budget: $50–$80 per day

• 🍛 Mix of street food and sit-down restaurants – $10–$20
• 🏡 Private guesthouse, budget hotel, or decent Airbnb – $15–$40
• 🛵 Motorbike rental, long-distance bus, or domestic flight – $5–$20
• 🏯 Entry fees, boat tours, or guided experiences – $10–$20

💰 Luxury on a Budget: $100–$150 per day

• 🍽️ High-end restaurants & rooftop bars – $25–$50
• 🏖️ Resort-style hotel or private villa – $50–$100
• ✈️ Flights & private transport instead of buses/trains – $20–$50
• 🎭 Premium activities (Halong Bay cruise, private excursions, spa days) – $30–$50

💡 Personal Experience: When I first arrived in Hanoi, I was spending less than $30 a day, eating $2 pho and staying in $8 hostels. But when I got to Halong Bay, I quickly realized that some places are built for tourists—and charge tourist prices. I ended up paying $80 for a boat tour that locals get for half the price just because I didn’t book in advance. Vietnam is cheap, but only if you know how to spend wisely.

Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

Vietnam is affordable, but full of sneaky expenses. Here’s where most travelers end up spending more than expected:

🚨 Overpriced Taxis & Grab Fares

• Taxis in touristy areas often refuse to use the meter.
• Even Grab (Asia’s Uber) can charge surge pricing during rush hour.
  💡 How to Save: Always use Mai Linh or Vinasun taxis—they’re reputable and use meters.

🚨 Inflated Tourist Prices at Attractions

• Some places charge foreigners 2–3x more than locals.
• Example: Ba Na Hills (Golden Bridge) costs ~$35 per ticket—crazy expensive for Vietnam.
  💡 How to Save: Prioritize free or cheap sights, and book tickets in advance for discounts.

🚨 ATM Fees & Currency Confusion

• Many ATMs charge $5–$7 per withdrawal.
• Vietnamese Dong has a lot of zeros (e.g., 100,000 VND ≈ $4), so it’s easy to miscalculate prices.
  💡 How to Save: Use a fee-free travel card (like Wise or Revolut) and double-check bills before paying.

🚨 Tourist Trap Restaurants

• Some places charge foreigners double what locals pay.
• Restaurants near Hoan Kiem Lake (Hanoi) and Bui Vien Street (Saigon) are ridiculously overpriced.
  💡 How to Save: Eat where locals eat—if a menu has no prices listed, walk away.

Final Thoughts on Budgeting for Vietnam

✨ Can you travel Vietnam on a low budget? Absolutely—but you need to be aware of where prices spike.
💸 What costs more than expected? Taxis, tourist attractions, and ATM fees.
🛑 Biggest budget mistake? Assuming everything is cheap everywhere—some cities are way pricier than others.

How to Eat Cheap in Vietnam Without Sacrificing Flavor

Vietnam is one of the best foodie destinations in the world, and the best part? You don’t have to spend much to eat insanely well. Unlike in some countries where budget food means eating sad sandwiches or instant noodles, in Vietnam, cheap food is often the best food.

But here’s what no one tells you—not all cheap food is actually a good deal. If you’re not careful, you’ll end up paying "tourist prices" for street food, eating at restaurants that charge foreigners double, or getting tricked into overpriced coffee shops with Instagrammable décor but terrible coffee.

Here’s how to eat like a local, spend like a local, and avoid overpriced tourist food in Vietnam.

Street Food is King (And It’s Actually Safe to Eat)

Vietnam’s street food is not only cheap—it’s some of the best food you’ll ever eat. Forget fancy restaurants; the best meals come from tiny plastic stools on the sidewalk.

✅ What to Eat and How Much It Costs

💡 Personal Experience: My first bowl of pho in Vietnam cost me $3 at a fancy tourist café in Ho Chi Minh City. A few days later, I found a local street vendor selling it for $1.50—and it tasted twice as good. Lesson learned: street food is always the better deal.

Where to Find the Best Cheap Eats

🔹 Street stalls & markets – Always the cheapest and best food. Look for places packed with locals.
🔹 Com binh dan (local worker restaurants) – "Rice and side dish" spots where locals eat for $2–$3 per meal.
🔹 Food courts in shopping malls – Surprisingly cheap and great for quick meals in cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.
🔹 Sidewalk cafes for coffee – Skip the tourist cafés and get coffee from small, local vendors.

🚨 Avoid These Overpriced Tourist Food Traps
❌ "Westernized" banh mi & pho places – If a place has a modern interior and an English menu with pictures, expect to pay double.
❌ Restaurants near major attractions – Any restaurant next to Ben Thanh Market (Saigon) or Hoan Kiem Lake (Hanoi) is overpriced.
❌ Fancy rooftop bars for coffee – Instagram-worthy, but you’ll pay $5–$7 for coffee that should cost $1.

💡 Pro Tip: If a restaurant doesn’t list prices on the menu, walk away—this is a common trick to overcharge tourists.

Drinking on a Budget: Cheap Beer & Avoiding Tourist Prices

Alcohol is cheap in Vietnam—if you drink like a local.

✅ How to Drink for Cheap

• Bia hoi (fresh draft beer) – The cheapest beer in the world, costing $0.30–$0.50 per glass.
• Buy beer from convenience stores – A local beer like Saigon Special costs $0.75–$1.50 at a store, but $3–$5 at a bar.
• Happy hours in local bars – Some places offer buy-one-get-one-free drinks in tourist areas.

🚨 What to Avoid
❌ Rooftop bars in Hanoi & Saigon – A single cocktail can cost $8–$15—more than your entire meal.
❌ Western-style clubs – If you’re on a budget, these are not the place to drink cheaply.

💡 Personal Experience: I once went to a fancy bar in Saigon and paid $10 for a cocktail—bad move. The next day, I found a bia hoi place in Hanoi selling beer for 30 cents. Guess where I drank for the rest of my trip? 😆

Final Thoughts on Eating & Drinking Cheap in Vietnam

✨ Worth It: Street food, local eateries, bia hoi, and small coffee stalls.
💸 Overrated: Trendy tourist cafés, rooftop bars, and fancy Western restaurants.

Eating well in Vietnam doesn’t have to cost much—in fact, the best food is often the cheapest. Stick to street vendors, avoid touristy areas, and don’t be fooled by Instagram-friendly restaurants charging triple the price.

Where to Stay in Vietnam Without Overpaying

Finding budget-friendly accommodation in Vietnam is easy—if you know where to look. The country is packed with hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels that offer great value for money. But there’s also a huge gap in quality—if you blindly book the cheapest option, you might end up in a moldy, windowless room with a mattress as soft as a rock.

On my first trip to Vietnam, I stayed in a $6 hostel dorm in Hanoi that was clean, social, and included free breakfast. Later, I booked a "budget hotel" in Da Nang for $12, thinking I scored a deal—only to find out the AC barely worked, and the walls were so thin I could hear my neighbor snoring all night. Lesson learned: price isn’t everything.

Here’s where to find the best budget stays, avoid common hotel scams, and get the most for your money.

How Much Does Accommodation Cost in Vietnam?

💰 Budget Options (Backpackers & Budget Travelers)

💰 Mid-Range Options (Comfort on a Budget)

💰 Luxury on a Budget (Affordable Comfort)

💡 Pro Tip: Prices skyrocket during Tet (Vietnamese New Year, usually in January/February). If you’re traveling around that time, book in advance.

Where to Find the Best Budget Stays in Vietnam

🔹 Hostels: Hostelworld for backpacker dorms & social vibes.
🔹 Budget Hotels & Guesthouses: Booking.com & Agoda have the best cheap options.
🔹 Apartments & Long-Term Stays: Airbnb & Facebook Groups (many expats list rentals here).
🔹 Hidden Local Deals: Some of the cheapest guesthouses aren’t online—just walk in and ask.

💡 Personal Experience: I once skipped booking a hostel in Hoi An and just walked around. I found a family-run guesthouse for $10/night that included a private room, breakfast, and free bike rentals. Some of the best budget stays aren’t even listed online.

Best Budget Areas to Stay in Vietnam

🏙 Hanoi
✅ Best budget areas: Old Quarter (cheap guesthouses, hostels, local street food).
❌ Overrated: Staying right next to Hoan Kiem Lake—it’s overpriced and noisy.

🏙 Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
✅ Best budget areas: Pham Ngu Lao & Bui Vien Street (backpacker central).
❌ Overrated: Staying in District 1 near expensive expat cafés & bars.

🏖 Da Nang
✅ Best budget areas: Near My Khe Beach (affordable, relaxed, great seafood).
❌ Overrated: Beachfront resorts—they charge tourist prices for everything.

🏝 Hoi An
✅ Best budget areas: Just outside Ancient Town (cheaper & quieter).
❌ Overrated: Staying inside Ancient Town—it’s beautiful but overpriced.

🏝 Vietnam’s Islands (Where to Stay for Cheap)
✅ Best budget islands: Phu Quoc, Cat Ba, Con Dao (less crowded & affordable).
❌ Overrated: High-end resorts on Phu Quoc—they look budget-friendly but charge premium prices for food & services.

💡 Personal Experience: I once stayed inside Hoi An’s Ancient Town thinking it would be magical. Instead, I woke up to noisy tour groups at 6 AM and paid triple for coffee. Next time, I stayed just outside the town and had the same charm—without the chaos and high prices.

Common Accommodation Scams & How to Avoid Them

🚨 "No Window" Hotel Rooms

• Some budget hotels list rooms at super low prices—but don’t mention they have no windows.
  💡 How to Avoid: Always check reviews & room details before booking.

🚨 Fake Hotel Names

• Some hotels copy the names of famous hotels to trick travelers.
  💡 How to Avoid: Double-check the address & photos before booking.

🚨 Random Extra Fees

• Some hotels add surprise "service charges" or "tourist taxes" when you check out.
  💡 How to Avoid: Confirm the total price upfront when booking.

Final Thoughts on Budget Accommodation in Vietnam

✨ Worth It: Local guesthouses, hostels, boutique hotels, and budget-friendly beach stays.
💸 Overrated: Staying inside major tourist areas, overpriced "beachfront" hotels, and fancy resorts that nickel-and-dime you for everything.

Vietnam has some of the best budget stays in Southeast Asia, but not every cheap hotel is a good deal. Do your research, check reviews, and don’t be afraid to negotiate or book in person for even better prices.

Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Vietnam

Some countries require a big budget to truly experience them—Vietnam isn’t one of them. Here, some of the best experiences are either free or ridiculously cheap. You don’t need to drop $100 on a tour to have an unforgettable time; you just need to know where to go and how to avoid the overpriced tourist traps.

I learned this the hard way when I first visited Halong Bay. I booked a tour online for $120, thinking I was getting a deal. The boat was nice, sure—but then I met a couple at my hostel who booked the exact same tour in person for $45. That’s when I realized: in Vietnam, you’re either paying tourist prices or local prices—and the difference is massive.

So, let’s talk about what’s actually worth your money, what’s a rip-off, and how to make the most of Vietnam without breaking your budget.

Exploring Vietnam’s Cities & Culture for Free (Or Close to It)

One of the best things about Vietnam? Its cities are packed with history, culture, and energy—and you don’t have to spend a dime to experience them.

In Hanoi, I could have easily spent money on a guided tour, but instead, I just walked through the Old Quarter, watched locals drinking bia hoi (fresh beer) on plastic stools, and got lost in the alleyways packed with street vendors. It was free, raw, and way better than any paid tour.

✅ Hanoi’s Old Quarter – Just wandering is an experience. Look for hidden cafes and street vendors making fresh pho.
✅ Imperial City of Hue ($7 entry) – If you love history, this is worth it. The ancient architecture is stunning.
✅ Temples & pagodas – Most are free or super cheap to enter. Skip the overpriced temple tours and explore on your own.

💡 Money-Saving Tip: If a local guide approaches you offering a "cheap" tour, be cautious—some are just taking you to their friend’s shop.

Hiking & Nature: Vietnam’s Best Free Adventures

Vietnam’s landscapes are absolutely unreal—and the best part? You don’t need an expensive tour to see them.

When I trekked in Sapa, I got quoted $35 for a “local trekking experience.” Instead, I met a local Hmong woman who offered to take me for $10—and it was the most authentic experience of my trip. Sometimes, the best experiences come from skipping the tour agencies and just asking around.

✅ Sapa’s rice terraces – Free if you go solo, or $10–$15 for a local guide (skip the overpriced tour groups).
✅ Phong Nha Caves ($3 entry) – Some of the most stunning caves in the world.
✅ Ninh Binh (Vietnam’s “Ha Long Bay on land”) – Rent a motorbike for $5 and explore limestone karsts and rivers without paying for a tour.

💡 Money-Saving Tip: Some national parks charge higher entry fees for foreigners. If you go with a local friend, you might get in at the local price.

Beaches: Vietnam’s Hidden Budget Paradises

Before visiting Vietnam, I expected the beaches to be second-rate compared to Thailand. I was wrong. The only difference? Vietnam’s best beaches aren’t overrun with tourists.

The first time I went to Mui Ne, I made the mistake of booking a “sunset sand dune tour” for $10. Turns out, it was just a crowded stop where they rushed us in and out. Lesson learned: some paid tours aren’t worth it when you can explore better spots on your own.

✅ Da Nang’s My Khe Beach – One of the best urban beaches in Asia—and completely free.
✅ Bai Xep (near Quy Nhon) – A quiet, hidden beach with no crowds.
✅ An Bang Beach (Hoi An) – Way cheaper than the tourist beaches in Da Nang.

💡 Money-Saving Tip: Some resorts try to charge “entrance fees” to use their beachfronts. Walk a little further, and you’ll usually find a free, local section of the beach.

Halong Bay Without the Overpriced Tourist Prices

Halong Bay is breathtaking, but it’s also a tourist money pit. If you don’t book smart, you’ll end up paying triple for the same experience.

🚨 Overpriced Option: Booking an all-inclusive Halong Bay cruise from Hanoi for $150+
✅ Budget-Friendly Alternative: Go to Cat Ba Island first, then book a day cruise for $40–$50 (same views, way cheaper).

💡 Personal Experience: I made the mistake of booking online in advance, thinking I was being responsible. Then I met a backpacker who walked into a tour office in Cat Ba and got the same cruise for 60% less. If you’re flexible, always book in person.

Motorbiking in Vietnam: The Best Cheap Adventure You Can Have

If you know how to ride, renting a motorbike is the best budget-friendly way to explore Vietnam. I rented one in Hoi An for $5 a day and rode through coastal roads, rice fields, and mountain passes. It was hands down one of the best experiences of my trip.

✅ Best Motorbike Routes for Budget Travelers:

• Ha Giang Loop – The ultimate Vietnam adventure (~$8 per day rental).
• Hai Van Pass (Hoi An to Hue) – Incredible views, and way more fun than taking the tourist bus.
• Ninh Binh countryside – Easily explored for $5 per day on a bike.

🚨 What to Watch Out For: Some rental shops charge you for "damage" that was already there. Always take photos before renting.

💡 Personal Experience: I rented a bike in Da Nang without checking it properly. When I returned it, they tried to charge me for a scratch that was already there. Luckily, I had photos from before the rental, so I didn’t pay. Always take photos. Always.

Final Thoughts on Budget-Friendly Activities in Vietnam

✨ Worth It: DIY city exploring, hiking, budget-friendly motorbiking, and local Halong Bay trips.
💸 Overrated: Overpriced tours, luxury cruises, and sand dune “sunset tours” that aren’t as magical as Instagram makes them look.

Vietnam is one of the easiest places to travel on a budget—as long as you know what’s worth your money and what’s just a tourist trap.

Getting Around Vietnam Without Overspending

Transportation in Vietnam is either ridiculously cheap or an absolute rip-off—there’s no in-between. If you know what you’re doing, you can get across the country for the price of a fancy coffee back home. But if you’re not careful, you’ll end up paying triple for taxis, getting scammed on “VIP” minivans, or booking flights when a $10 bus would’ve done the job.

I’ve made all the mistakes—overpaid for a cab, booked an overpriced train ticket, and even got stuck on a night bus that felt like a moving freezer. But I’ve also spent less than $5 getting from one city to another, taken $1 local buses, and rented a motorbike for the cost of a sandwich.

Let’s break down the best ways to get around Vietnam without wasting money.

Best Budget-Friendly Ways to Travel in Vietnam

✅ Night Buses & Sleeper Trains (Save on transport + accommodation)

• Cost: $10–$30 per trip.
• Best for: Long distances (Hanoi to Hue, Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City, etc.).
• Why it’s great: You save money on a night’s accommodation and wake up in your next city.
• What to watch out for: Some budget buses cram too many people in—always book reputable companies.

💡 Personal Experience: My first night bus in Vietnam, I booked the cheapest option ($12) and ended up in a packed sleeper with broken AC. The next time, I spent $5 more on a better company—best decision ever.

✅ Local Buses (Cheap for Short Distances)

• Cost: $0.50–$2 per ride.
• Best for: Getting around cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang.
• Avoid: Tourist shuttle buses (they cost 3–5x more than local buses).

💡 How to Save: Download Google Maps or Moovit—they show local bus routes & real-time schedules.

✅ Motorbike Rental (The Best Way to Explore Small Towns & Countryside)

• Cost: $5–$10 per day + $3 for fuel.
• Best for: Exploring Hoi An, Ninh Binh, Ha Giang Loop, and Phong Nha.
• Warning: Some rental shops scam tourists by charging fake "damage" fees.

💡 Pro Tip: Always take photos of the motorbike before renting to avoid getting charged for scratches you didn’t make.

✅ Grab (Vietnam’s Uber—Without the Scams)

• Cost: $1–$5 per ride (depends on the city).
• Best for: Short trips within cities (no haggling, no rip-offs).
• Avoid: Grabbing a taxi off the street—many don’t use meters and will overcharge you.

💡 Personal Experience: My first time in Vietnam, I took a taxi from Hanoi airport to my hotel and got charged double. After that, I only used Grab—it was cheaper, no scams, and way easier.

What’s Overpriced & Not Worth It?

🚨 Taxis That “Forget” to Turn on the Meter

• Some taxi drivers refuse to use the meter and charge a ridiculous fixed price instead.
  💡 How to Avoid: Stick to Mai Linh and Vinasun taxis—they always use the meter.

🚨 Tourist “VIP” Minivans

• Cost: $15–$30 per ride.
• Why they’re a rip-off: They charge 2–3x more than local buses for the same routes.
  💡 Better Alternative: Take local buses or sleeper trains instead.

🚨 Unnecessary Domestic Flights

• A one-hour flight can cost $50+, but a night train costs $20 and saves a night’s accommodation.
  💡 When Flights Are Worth It: If you’re short on time and traveling from Hanoi to Phu Quoc (which takes forever by land).

Best Budget Transport Apps to Use in Vietnam

📲 Grab – The easiest way to get taxis without getting scammed.
📲 12Go Asia – The best site for booking trains, buses, and ferries in advance.
📲 Google Maps / Moovit – For local bus routes and schedules.

Final Thoughts on Budget Transport in Vietnam

✨ Worth It: Night buses, local buses, sleeper trains, motorbikes, and Grab.
💸 Overrated: Tourist minivans, overpriced taxis, and flights that could be replaced by a night train.

Getting around Vietnam doesn’t have to be expensive—but it’s easy to waste money on overpriced tourist transport. Stick to local options, rent a motorbike when you can, and always check for scams.

Final Budget Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid in Vietnam

By now, you know how to eat cheap, find budget-friendly stays, and get around without overpaying. But even if you follow all the usual money-saving tricks, Vietnam has a way of sneaking unexpected expenses into your trip.

I’ve seen travelers blow their budget on things they didn’t even realize were expensive—from ATM fees to overpriced souvenirs—and I’ve made some of these mistakes myself.

Let’s break down the final budget-saving tips and the biggest money mistakes to avoid.

Final Budget-Saving Tips for Vietnam

✅ Always Carry Small Bills
Vietnam’s currency has a lot of zeros, and vendors sometimes "accidentally" give the wrong change. A 100,000 VND note ($4) looks a lot like a 10,000 VND note ($0.40).

💡 Pro Tip: Always double-check your change and carry small bills for street food & local shops.

✅ Get a Fee-Free Travel Card
Vietnamese ATMs charge $5–$7 per withdrawal—do that a few times, and you’re losing a whole day’s budget on fees.

📌 Best Ways to Avoid ATM Fees:
✔ Use a fee-free travel card like Wise or Revolut for cheaper currency exchange.
✔ Withdraw the max limit per transaction to reduce how often you pay fees.
✔ If possible, pay in cash—many places charge extra fees for card payments.

✅ Haggle—But Do It Politely
In markets, prices are inflated for tourists. If you don’t negotiate, you’ll pay way more than you should.

💡 How to Haggle in Vietnam:
✔ Start by offering half the asking price and work from there.
✔ Keep it light-hearted—smiling and joking helps.
✔ If the seller won’t budge, walk away—you’ll probably get a better price at the next stall.

Biggest Budget Mistakes Travelers Make in Vietnam

🚨 Paying "Tourist Prices" for Food & Drinks
Some restaurants have separate menus for tourists with higher prices.

❌ Mistake: Eating at places that don’t list prices on the menu.
✔ Fix: If there are no prices listed, walk away.

🚨 Booking Tours Online Instead of In Person
Most tours are way cheaper if you book directly at a travel agency once you arrive.

❌ Mistake: Paying $80 for a Halong Bay tour online that costs $45 in person.
✔ Fix: Always shop around & compare prices before booking.

🚨 Not Checking Visa Requirements
Vietnam changes visa rules often, and some travelers get caught off guard.

❌ Mistake: Assuming you can extend your visa easily.
✔ Fix: Check Vietnam’s official immigration website before your trip.

🚨 Falling for Taxi & Motorbike Rental Scams
Some taxis "forget" to turn on the meter, and some motorbike rental shops charge you for “damages” you didn’t cause.

❌ Mistake: Renting a bike without taking photos first.
✔ Fix: Always use Grab for taxis & document your motorbike rental.

Final Thoughts on Budget Travel in Vietnam

✨ Worth It: Street food, local buses, night trains, motorbike rentals, and booking tours in person.
💸 Overrated: Overpriced tourist restaurants, online tour bookings, and taxis that refuse to use meters.

Vietnam is one of the best budget travel destinations in the world—but only if you know where the real costs are hidden. Travel smart, avoid common mistakes, and you’ll make your money last much longer.