Vietnam On A Budget: Complete Budget Breakdown
I’ve spent weeks traveling through Vietnam. From those early mornings in Hanoi sipping salted coffee to evenings watching lanterns float across Hoi An’s river, every time I’m reminded why it’s one of my favorite destinations. It’s vibrant, welcoming, and best of all, incredibly affordable. If you’re dreaming of exploring Vietnam on a budget, you’ll be happy to know it’s one of the easiest countries in Asia to do so without feeling like you’re cutting corners.
What makes Vietnam special is how much value you get for your money. You can stay in boutique hotels for under $40 a night, eat street food that costs $1, and join guided tours for less than a movie ticket back home. There have been so many times here that I think, “wow, it was how much?!”
Whether you’re cruising Ha Long Bay, wandering ancient towns, or hopping local trains between cities, traveling Vietnam cheaply doesn’t mean missing out; it just means being smart about how you plan.
In this guide, I’ll share practical tips from my own travels: how to find cheap flights, use points for hotels, get around affordably, and enjoy the country’s best experiences for less. No matter your travel style, this Vietnam on a budget guide will help you plan a trip that’s rich in experience, not expense.
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Estimated Cost To Visit Vietnam
By most traveler standards, Vietnam is an incredibly cost-effective country to visit. Everything — from food and local experiences to hotel stays — comes at a fraction of what you’d pay in most other destinations. It’s also a place where even splurging a little goes a long way.
For just a modest increase in your daily budget, you can upgrade to boutique hotels, enjoy sit-down restaurants, or book private tours, all without feeling like you’re overspending.
So, even though it’s a backpackers paradise it’s perfect for all traveler budgets.
To give you a ballpark for a mid-range trip, here are the average costs per category:
- Accommodations: $30–$60 per night for mid-range hotels or boutique guesthouses
- Food: $7–$20 per day for a mix of street food and higher-end restaurants
- Public Transportation: $2–$8 per day for buses, local transport, and short Grab rides
- Activities: $5–$20 per day depending on what you choose to do
- Guided Tours: $15–$40 for small-group or full-day experiences
On average, a traveler can comfortably visit Vietnam for around $45–$75 per day, while backpackers can do it for less and those wanting extra comfort or convenience can enjoy a more upscale experience for under $120 per day.
If you’re traveling with someone, it’s often even cheaper. Sharing a hotel room or private transfer can bring your daily costs closer to $35–$60 per person. All making Vietnam one of the best-value destinations for couples or friends traveling together.
Getting To Vietnam Cheaply
Getting to Vietnam on a budget takes a bit of strategy. While there’s technically one direct route from the United States — Vietnam Airlines’ nonstop flight from San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City — it’s rarely the cheapest option.
Roundtrip fares on that route are often higher than connecting flights with carriers like Korean Air, Japan Airlines, or Cathay Pacific, which usually offer better value and smoother service. You can usually find roundtrip flights from larger hubs inexpensively, even with these connections.
If you’re trying to save money on your flight to Vietnam, think about booking a positioning flight first. Departing from major West Coast hubs like Los Angeles, Seattle, or San Francisco often costs significantly less than flying from the Midwest or even the East Coast. Even adding a short, low-cost domestic flight to one of these cities can cut hundreds off your international ticket.
On average, roundtrip flights from the West Coast range from $550–$900, while Premium Economy fares tend to hover between $1,500–$2,200. Occasionally, you can find even better deals by watching for flash sales (usually around major holidays, especially for Asian carriers) or booking during the shoulder season.
Open-jaw tickets tend to be more expensive to and from Vietnam for those traveling through the country. It’s useful to check the price of a roundtrip from Ho Chi Minh or Hanoi and add a quick flight back instead of booking two one-way tickets.
How To Fly To Vietnam Using Points And Miles
If you want to fly to Vietnam for nearly free, travel points are your best friend. With transferable points, you can book flights on dozens of airlines, even those not based in the U.S. Thanks to airline alliances, you can transfer your bank points to partner programs that often offer better deals than booking with U.S. carriers.
For instance, you could fly Delta but transfer your points to Air France. Since they’re both part of the SkyTeam alliance, you can book shared award space, unlocking cheaper redemptions using points you already have.
If you’re new to this, I highly recommend trying Point.Me. This tool helps you find the best use of your points for any destination, worldwide. It’s especially helpful if you’re flying from a smaller airport, so you can search for better deals via a positioning flight.
Best points programs to fly to Vietnam
Atmos Rewards — You can often find economy flights as low as 37,500 miles one-way, making it one of the best deals to Vietnam with solid award availability. Business class flights are also an excellent redemption if you can find open seats, though space is more limited.
ANA Mileage Club — ANA requires roundtrip bookings, but prices are some of the most reasonable to Asia. Transfers are only available through American Express Membership Rewards, so it’s slightly more restrictive — but the value can be unbeatable.
Air France / KLM Flying Blue — If you’re based on the East Coast, look for 40,000-mile one-way economy flights to Vietnam via Paris or Amsterdam. Promo awards appear often and can lower those prices even further.
Air Canada Aeroplan — While economy redemptions can be pricier than other programs, they’re usually easier to find. Business class awards are harder to secure but remain one of the top sweet spots to Asia when available.
Getting Around Vietnam
Vietnam stretches more than 1,000 miles from north to south, and most travelers try to see a large portion of it in a short amount of time. That means transportation costs can add up quickly, especially if you’re visiting multiple regions on a budget.
There are a few main ways to get around Vietnam, each with its own advantages. One of the easiest is the Reunification Express, the train line that runs the length of the country from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi.
It’s a scenic and affordable option, with several levels of comfort depending on the train and route. On longer stretches, you can even book an overnight sleeper cabin, which saves both time and a night’s accommodation.
Travel Tip! The easiest way to compare and book your transportation in Vietnam is through 12Go Asia. You can check prices, routes, and book everything from trains and buses to ferries and transfers in one place — perfect for keeping your Vietnam trip on a budget.
Buses are another popular choice, particularly sleeper buses that run overnight between major cities. They’re usually the cheapest option but can be less comfortable, with mixed reviews on space and cleanliness depending on the company.
For those short on time, budget airlines like VietJet Air and Vietnam Airlines connect most cities with quick, inexpensive flights.
Prices are often comparable to the train, especially if you’re traveling light without checked baggage. Still, I often prefer the train for convenience: no airport transfers or long check-in lines required!
For regional travel or shorter distances, you can rely on local buses, shared tourist transfers, or private drivers. Apps like Grab are widely used for getting around cities, while taxis are best reserved for short trips when other options aren’t available.
Where To Stay In Vietnam On A Budget
Staying in Vietnam is relatively inexpensive, especially if you choose boutique hotels or guesthouses over international brands. Most travelers are pleasantly surprised by how far their money goes here.
Prices do vary depending on where you visit, with tourist-heavy destinations like Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Halong Bay costing a bit more than smaller cities or inland areas.
In most destinations, you can expect to pay $25–$40 per night for a comfortable mid-range hotel, often including breakfast. Clean, stylish boutique hotels are common across Vietnam and usually feature extras like rooftop pools, modern design, or laundry service, all without the chain-hotel markup.
If you’re traveling on a tighter budget, Vietnam has a wide range of hostels and homestays, some as low as $7–$15 per night. Many hostels also include private rooms with air conditioning for just a few dollars more, making them ideal for couples or solo travelers who still want privacy.
For those who prefer more comfort while keeping costs low, locally owned boutique hotels are the sweet spot. They often deliver better hospitality and unique charm compared to large international brands, while helping you support local businesses. And they are often just a few dollar more a night than the mid-range options.
If you’re planning to move around the country, it’s also worth mixing hotel styles. Maybe splurging on a nicer stay in Hanoi or Hoi An, then choosing simpler guesthouses in smaller towns.
It’s an easy way to balance comfort with a true Vietnam on a budget experience.
Using Points For Hotels In Vietnam
You can use points for hotels in Vietnam, but it’s often not the best value. Mid-range and boutique hotels are already affordable, so paying cash usually stretches your budget further. A stylish stay in Hanoi or Hoi An might cost just $40–$60 per night, while using points for the same room could cost far more in value.
That said, points can still shine at luxury properties. Brands like the Park Hyatt Saigon, InterContinental Da Nang, or JW Marriott Phu Quoc are some of the best redemptions in Vietnam, especially when nightly cash rates run several hundred dollars.
It’s also a great place to take advantage of Free Night Certificates, either earned on your own or through your travel rewards card. They offer great value for hotels you otherwise might not pay for.
Saving Money On Top Things To Do In Vietnam
Experiences in Vietnam are already surprisingly affordable. Guided tours typically range from $8–$40, depending on the length and inclusions. Food tours, often one of the priciest activities elsewhere, usually cost just $15–$20 per person. For that price, you can join a street food tour in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, sample local specialties, and get a true feel for everyday life, which is honestly a steal.
Even on a tight budget, it’s easy to fill your days without spending much. Many of Vietnam’s top attractions are either free or very low cost, like visiting the Imperial Citadel in Hue, exploring Hoi An’s Ancient Town (about $5 for the full pass), or taking a sunset walk along Da Nang’s My Khe Beach. You can also find affordable experiences like cooking classes in Hoi An for around $25, or day trips to the Mekong Delta starting near $35.
If you like to plan ahead, GetYourGuide is one of the best platforms to book tours in advance. Prices are competitive, and some operators even offer discounted rates closer to your travel dates. Plus, you can look at reviews to ensure you’re getting the best experience.
Still, Vietnam is a place where local connections matter. Ask your hotel or guesthouse for recommendations, they often partner with trusted guides and can help you find the same tours for less or arrange custom experiences that aren’t listed online. You won’t be able to review the experience but it might be a better deal.
Things To Do in Vietnam for Under $10
You don’t have to spend much to enjoy Vietnam. Some of the best experiences in the country cost less than $10, proving just how far your money can go here. Even on a tight budget there is still so much you can experience.
Visit cultural landmarks and temples
From ornate pagodas to historic temples, entrance fees are usually just a few dollars. You’ll get a glimpse of Vietnam’s deep spiritual traditions while exploring beautiful architecture and peaceful courtyards.
Take a local cooking class
Yes, even many cooking classes cost under $10 in smaller cities and towns. You’ll learn to make staples like pho, spring rolls, or banh xeo.
Join a guided walking tour
In major cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you can find free or low-cost walking tours that showcase local neighborhoods, markets, and hidden corners most visitors miss. A small tip to your guide is all that’s expected.
Spend a day at the beach
Vietnam’s coastline is lined with beautiful public beaches, many of which are completely free. Bring a towel, grab a local coffee or fresh coconut, and spend a day by the sea for just a few dollars.
Explore local markets
From morning produce stalls to night markets filled with souvenirs and snacks, markets are a staple of daily life in Vietnam. Even if you don’t buy anything, they’re full of color, sound, and energy. At the authentically local markets just $5 can get you a lot of good stuff to try, too.
Visit a museum or cultural center
Most museums charge just a small entry fee, often under $3, and they’re a great way to understand Vietnam’s history and resilience through local stories and artifacts. Museums in larger cities rival those around the world, just without the price tag.
Enjoy street food and coffee culture
Spend an afternoon hopping between cafés and food stalls — try coconut coffee, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls — all for under $10 total.
How To Visit Halong Bay For Less
A Halong Bay cruise is one of the most iconic experiences in Vietnam, and surprisingly affordable when you know where to look. Prices range from day trips under $40 to overnight cruises between $130–$250, depending on length, inclusions, and comfort level.
Day cruises are the cheapest way to see the bay, but a 2-day/1-night cruise offers the best value overall. You’ll get private cabins, all meals, and activities like kayaking, cave visits, and cooking classes, all while waking up to limestone cliffs and quiet emerald waters.
Want all my best cruise tips? Check out my full post on the cheapest Halong Bay cruises, including which tour offers the best value for your money.
To save even more, travel during spring or fall when prices drop and boats are less crowded. Skip the rock-bottom tours that charge extra for everything — a slightly higher price usually means better service and fewer hidden costs.
Eating In Vietnam On A Budget
Vietnam is easily one of the cheapest countries to eat on a budget… and also one of the best. Thanks to its strong street food culture and abundance of fresh, local ingredients, eating well here rarely costs much. It’s not unusual to grab a bahn mi or bowl of pho for around $1, or to find a cozy neighborhood café serving coconut coffee or salted coffee for the same price.
Even if you splurge occasionally, it’s realistic to spend just $5–$10 per day on food in Vietnam. Street food stalls, market vendors, and local “no-frills” eateries are where you’ll find the best value. But they also oftentimes have the most authentic flavors.
Picture the classic plastic stools, open-air kitchens, and sizzling woks filling the air with the smell of garlic and fish sauce. It’s not fancy, but it’s always delicious.
If you’re craving something more modern, Vietnam also has an impressive café and restaurant scene. This is especially true in Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City. For just a few dollars more, you can sit down at a mid-range or Western-style restaurant. These include things like air conditioning, cocktails, or international dishes. All for far less than what you’d pay elsewhere in Asia.
Travel Tip! Be mindful that Vietnam is still a cash-heavy society, especially for local eats. Be sure to bring plenty of small bills to pay for your food along the way. If you’ve been to the ATM and received larger bills, bring them to a local 7-11 and buy something to get some change. (They always have it.)
Tips For Finding The Best Places To Eat
Part of what makes Vietnam such an incredible food destination is that great meals are everywhere. You just need to know where to look. Here are a few simple ways to find the best places to eat in Vietnam.
Join a street food tour.
If you’re short on time or nervous about where to start, a local-led food tour is the easiest (and tastiest) way to dive in. Guides know which stalls are clean, where locals actually eat, and how to navigate dishes you might not recognize. Tours usually cost $15–$25 and include more food than you can finish. Plus it’s one of the most fun introductions to Vietnamese culture.
Check the Michelin Guide.
Vietnam is one of the best place to eat Michelin quality food. Cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City all have listed or recommended restaurants worth checking out. You’ll find several spots with meals under $10 that rival fine dining elsewhere.
Use Google Maps and local recommendations.
Vietnamese locals love to eat out, so Google Maps reviews are often accurate and full of photos. Look for places with plenty of local-language reviews, busy seating, and a steady line. These are all good signs of fresh food. Your hotel or guesthouse staff are also great resources; they often know nearby spots that don’t show up online but serve some of the best food in town. Just be sure to ask, “where do you eat nearby?” and not, “where should I eat?”
Travel Tips To Save Money In Vietnam
Vietnam is already one of the most affordable destinations in Asia, but a few smart choices can help you stretch your money even further. These tips will help you travel Vietnam on a budget without missing out.
Book domestic flights early.
Budget airlines like VietJet and Vietnam Airlines can be incredibly cheap, but prices climb as seats fill up. Book flights early (especially around holidays).
Compare transport options with 12Go Asia.
Vietnam’s long, narrow shape means you’ll likely move between regions. Use 12Go Asia to compare train, bus, and flight prices side by side.
Eat where locals eat.
The cheapest and best food is found at street stalls and local restaurants. A banh mi or pho usually costs around $1–$2. It’s almost always fresher (and tastier) than tourist cafés serving Western dishes.
Use cash instead of cards.
Vietnam is still a cash-heavy country. Most small businesses (especially food stalls) don’t accept cards, so withdraw local currency from ATMs once you arrive.
Take advantage of Grab.
Download Grab, Southeast Asia’s version of Uber, for taxis, scooters, and even food delivery. It’s cheaper, safer, and far more reliable than hailing cabs off the street.
Be smart about SIM cards and data.
Skip pricey international plans and use an eSIM. They are reliable and incredibly cheap in Asia.
Use travel credit cards with no foreign transaction fees.
Even though Vietnam runs on cash, you’ll still need a card for flights, hotels, or online bookings. Use a travel rewards card that waives foreign transaction fees. And avoid Amex, as it’s not commonly accepted in Vietnam.
Book boutique hotels.
Booking platforms like Expedia and Booking.com include a wide variety of boutique hotels that oftentimes have great discounts once logged in with your account information.
Don’t try to do too much.
Vietnam is big. Traveling slower means saving money on transport and enjoying more time in each place. You’ll spend less on logistics and more on experiences that actually matter.
More Vietnam Tips + Inspiration
- A trip to Vietnam isn’t complete without visiting Hanoi. Checkout this 3-day itinerary for all of my favorite things to do, places to eat, and where to stay.
- Halong Bay cruises can be affordable – I’ve got the complete guide to help you do just that.
- Traveling to Hue? Check out my 2-day itinerary to the imperial city.
- Be sure to check out my complete 1-day itinerary (including a list of things to do) in Hoi An for your trip to Vietnam.
