How to Travel Vietnam on a Budget: Tips to Save Big in 2025

How to Travel Vietnam on a Budget?

Vietnam, with its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine, offers incredible experiences without draining your bank account. This Vietnam travel guide will help you explore this beautiful country while keeping costs down in 2025.

Whether you’re a backpacker or a family seeking an affordable vacation, Vietnam’s combination of affordability, natural beauty, and warm hospitality makes it perfect for budget-conscious travelers. Let’s discover how to travel Vietnam on a budget with practical tips and strategies!

Cheapest Ways to Travel in Vietnam

Local Buses

The most economical way to travel between cities, with tickets costing just NPR 650-1,300 for several hours. They connect virtually every town and city.

Sleeper Buses

These buses feature reclining seats or bunk beds, allowing overnight travel while saving on accommodation. A journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City costs around NPR 1,950-2,600.

Motorbike Rental

Renting a motorbike (NPR 650-1,300 per day) offers freedom to explore at your own pace. Vietnam’s stunning countryside and coastal roads are perfect for motorbike adventures.

Trains

Vietnam’s railway system provides a comfortable and scenic way to travel. The Reunification Express runs from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. While slightly more expensive than buses (NPR 2,600-5,200), trains offer more comfort for longer journeys.

Grab and Ride-Sharing

For city travel, the Grab app offers affordable motorcycle and car rides. A short motorcycle ride might cost as little as NPR 130.

Walking

Many Vietnamese cities have walkable central areas. Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Hoi An’s Ancient Town are particularly pedestrian-friendly and cost nothing to explore.

How Much Money to Bring to Vietnam for 1 Week?

This Vietnam travel guide will explore every possible expenses and breakdown accordingly.

Daily Budget Breakdown

• Accommodation: NPR 650-1,950 per night
• Food: NPR 650-1,300 per day
• Transportation: NPR 650-1,300 per day
• Activities: NPR 650-1,950 per day
• Miscellaneous: NPR 650 per day

Total weekly expenses: approximately NPR 22,750-50,050 per person, excluding international flights.

Budget Tiers

• Shoestring Budget: NPR 3,250/day (NPR 22,750/week)
• Comfortable Budget: NPR 5,200/day (NPR 36,400/week)
• Flashpacker Budget: NPR 7,150/day (NPR 50,050/week)

Money-Saving Tips

• Withdraw larger amounts less frequently to minimize ATM fees
• Exchange some money before arriving for initial expenses
• Keep small denominations handy for street vendors and markets
• Use xe.com or similar apps to check current exchange rates

Is Vietnam Cheaper Than Thailand For Travel Purpose?

In most categories, Vietnam edges out Thailand by about 20-30% in terms of affordability.

Where Vietnam Wins?

• Accommodation: Budget options in Vietnam are generally cheaper
• Food: Street food and local meals cost noticeably less
• Transportation: Buses, trains, and motorbike rentals tend to be cheaper
• Coffee culture: Vietnam’s excellent coffee costs a fraction of Thailand’s prices
• Beer and alcohol: Local beers like Bia Hoi can cost as little as NPR 65

Best Budget Accommodations in Vietnam

Hostels

Dorm beds start around NPR 650-1,040 per night and often include perks like free breakfast, social activities, and communal kitchens.

Guesthouses and Homestays

Family-run guesthouses offer private rooms for NPR 1,300-2,600, providing personal attention and local knowledge. Homestays, particularly in rural areas, offer cultural experiences along with budget accommodation.

Budget Hotels

For around NPR 1,950-3,250 per night, you can find comfortable budget hotels with clean, air-conditioned private rooms and basic amenities.

Booking Strategies

• Book directly for better rates
• Stay longer for weekly discounts
• Travel in shoulder season
• Look beyond tourist centers
• Negotiate for longer stays

Areas with Best Budget Options

• Hanoi: The Old Quarter
• Ho Chi Minh City: Pham Ngu Lao area (District 1)
• Hoi An: Cam Pho district rather than Ancient Town
• Da Nang: My An Beach area
• Nha Trang: A few blocks back from the beach

Eating on a Budget in Vietnam

Street food is the cornerstone of how to travel Vietnam on a budget, Vietnam travel guide while eating well. A typical street food meal costs between NPR 130-390 and offers authentic flavors.

Must-try street food dishes:

• Pho (NPR 130-260): Famous Vietnamese noodle soup
• Banh Mi (NPR 130): Crispy baguette sandwiches
• Bun Cha (NPR 195-260): Grilled pork with rice noodles
• Com Binh Dan (NPR 195-390): “Commoner’s rice” – mixed plates
• Banh Xeo (NPR 195-325): Crispy savory pancakes

Vietnam’s Coffee Culture

Vietnamese coffee (ca phe) costs only NPR 65-195 per cup. Try ca phe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk) or egg coffee (ca phe trung) in Hanoi.

Budget Meal Planning

• Eat where locals eat
• Have a big late lunch (often cheaper than dinner)
• Share dishes
• Explore morning markets
• Bring a reusable water bottle

Budget-Friendly Activities and Attractions

Many of Vietnam’s most memorable experiences cost very little or nothing at all.

Free and Nearly-Free Activities

• Exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1 on foot
• Visiting local markets
• Relaxing on public beaches in Da Nang, Nha Trang, or Phu Quoc
• Hiking in the rice terraces around Sapa
• Watching the sunset over West Lake in Hanoi

Low-Cost Cultural Experiences

• Water puppet shows in Hanoi (NPR 650)
• Local cooking classes (budget options from NPR 1,950)
• Museum entrance fees (typically NPR 130-390)
• Temple and pagoda visits (free or small donations)

Tour Strategies

• Group tours are significantly cheaper than private tours
• Last-minute bookings often come with discounts
• Negotiate politely but firmly, especially for group bookings
• Compare prices between different agencies before booking

Off-the-Beaten-Path Budget Destinations

Northern Vietnam Hidden Gems

• Ha Giang Province: Vietnam’s most spectacular mountain scenery (NPR 3,250-3,900 per day)
• Bai Tu Long Bay: Similar to Ha Long Bay with fewer tourists and 20-30% lower prices
• Mai Chau: Peaceful valley with homestays at NPR 1,950 including meals

Central Vietnam Budget Destinations

• Phong Nha: Home to some of the world’s largest caves with entrance fees of just NPR 260-1,300
• Quy Nhon: Beautiful beaches and fresh seafood at 40% less than major beach destinations
• Tam Ky: Stay in affordable rooms (NPR 1,300-1,950) rather than tourist-priced Hoi An

Southern Vietnam Budget Spots

• Can Tho: Heart of the Mekong Delta for about NPR 3,250 per day
• Phu Quoc (off-season): Island paradise with prices dropping by 50% during green season (May-October)

Avoiding Tourist Traps and Scams

Common Scams to Watch For

• Taxi Meter Tampering: Use reputable companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun, or ride-hailing apps like Grab
• Currency Confusion: Be aware that 100,000 dong and 10,000 dong notes look somewhat similar
• Fake Tickets: Purchase entrance tickets only at official booths

Price Negotiation Strategies

• Research typical prices beforehand
• Ask your accommodation about fair prices
• Negotiate firmly but respectfully
• Be willing to walk away
• Use a calculator app to avoid language barriers
• Start around 50-60% of the initial asking price

Best Times to Visit Vietnam for Budget Travelers

Shoulder Seasons: The Budget Sweet Spot

April to June and September to November offer the best combination of good weather and lower prices:

• Hotel rates drop 20-40%
• Flight prices decrease significantly
• Tourist attractions are less crowded
• Weather is generally favorable

Regional Weather Considerations

• Northern Vietnam: Budget-friendly time: March-April and October-November
• Central Vietnam: Budget-friendly time: February-May
• Southern Vietnam: Budget-friendly time: November-April

Which Month is Cheapest to Fly to Vietnam?

The cheapest months to fly to Vietnam in 2025 are:

• May: End of dry season, beginning of low season
• September: End of rainy season, before peak season begins
• November: Early peak season but before holiday price surge

Flights during these months can be 30-40% cheaper than during the December-January peak.

Holiday Periods to Avoid

• Tet (Vietnamese New Year): Usually January or February
• Reunification Day & Labor Day: April 30 – May 1
• National Day: September 2
• Western Christmas/New Year: December 20 – January 5

Planning a 5-Day Budget Itinerary in Vietnam

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do.” – Mark Twain

How Much is a Budget for a 5-Day Itinerary in Vietnam?

• Accommodation: NPR 6,500-9,750
• Food and drinks: NPR 6,500-9,750
• Transportation: NPR 5,200-7,800
• Activities and entrance fees: NPR 5,200-7,800 (including Ha Long Bay cruise)
• Miscellaneous expenses: NPR 2,600-3,900

Total 5-day budget: NPR 26,000-39,000 (excluding international flights)

Perfect 5-Day Hanoi & Ha Long Bay Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Hanoi

• Morning/Afternoon: Arrive in Hanoi, check into accommodation in Old Quarter
• Evening: Explore the bustling streets of the Old Quarter and enjoy local street food
• Night: Experience the vibrant night markets or relax at a rooftop café
• Accommodation: Old Quarter hostel or budget hotel (NPR 1,300-2,600)

Day 2: Hanoi to Ninh Binh Day Trip

• Early Morning: Day tour to Ninh Binh (NPR 2,600-3,900)
• Midday: Tam Coc boat tour through stunning limestone karsts
• Afternoon: Visit Hang Mua peak for panoramic views and Bich Dong Pagoda
• Evening: Return to Hanoi
• Accommodation: Same Hanoi accommodation (NPR 1,300-2,600)

“To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time.” – Bill Bryson

Day 3: Hanoi to Halong Bay (Overnight Cruise)

• Morning: Transfer to Ha Long Bay (NPR 1,950-2,600)
• Midday: Board cruise boat and enjoy lunch while sailing through the bay
• Afternoon: Kayaking, swimming, or cave exploration
• Evening: Sunset views, cooking demonstration, and dinner on board
• Accommodation: Overnight on cruise boat (NPR 6,500-9,100, including meals and activities)

Day 4: Return to Hanoi – City Tour

• Early Morning: Sunrise tai chi, breakfast on the boat
• Morning: Return to Hanoi (transfer usually included with cruise)
• Afternoon: Cultural city tour including Ho Chi Minh Complex, Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake
• Evening: Water puppet show (NPR 650-910) and farewell dinner
• Accommodation: Return to Hanoi accommodation (NPR 1,300-2,600)

Day 5: Departure

• Morning: Last-minute souvenir shopping in the Old Quarter
• Midday: Visit a local coffee shop to experience Vietnamese coffee culture
• Afternoon: Final meals before transfer to airport
• Evening: Departure from Hanoi

“Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been before.” – Dalai Lama

You want explore more, read thoroughly below:

Finding Budget Flights to Vietnam

One of the biggest expenses for any Vietnam trip is the international flight. With strategic planning, you can significantly reduce this cost, leaving more of your budget. Lets explore How to Travel Vietnam on a Budget flights.

Best Time to Book Flights to Vietnam

Timing is crucial for finding the cheapest flights to Vietnam:

• Book 2-3 months in advance: This sweet spot typically offers the best balance of availability and price
• Avoid peak seasons: December-January and July-August see the highest fares
• Target shoulder months: May and September-November often have the best deals
• Mid-week departures: Tuesday and Wednesday flights are frequently cheaper than weekend flights
• Set fare alerts: Use services like Skyscanner or Google Flights to track price drops

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step… and a good flight deal.” – Adapted from Lao Tzu

Budget Airlines Flights to Vietnam

Several budget carriers offer competitive fares to Vietnam:

• VietJet Air: Often the cheapest option, connecting through Bangkok or other Asian hubs
• IndiGo: Good options from India with reasonable prices
• AirAsia: Extensive network with frequent promotions
• Thai Lion Air: Competitive fares with Bangkok connections
• Scoot: Budget arm of Singapore Airlines with decent service

Direct vs. Connecting Flights to Vietnam

When planning how to travel Vietnam on a budget, consider these trade-offs:

• Direct flights: Save time but typically cost 25-40% more
• One-stop connections: Good balance of convenience and cost
• Multi-stop flights: Cheapest options but can be exhausting
• Layover opportunities: Long layovers (8+ hours) can allow mini-explorations of connection cities

Typical Costs of Flight to Vietnam from Nepal

From Kathmandu to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City:

• Budget season (May, September-November): NPR 65,000-85,000 round-trip
• Shoulder season (February-April): NPR 80,000-100,000 round-trip
• Peak season (December-January, July-August): NPR 110,000-140,000 round-trip

Money-Saving Flight Hacks

Implement these strategies to further reduce your flight costs:

• Consider nearby airports: Sometimes flying to Bangkok and taking a separate budget flight to Vietnam is cheaper
• Use reward points: Many credit cards offer travel points that can be redeemed for flights
• Mix and match airlines: Booking separate one-way tickets sometimes costs less than round-trips
• Clear your cookies: Flight booking sites may increase prices based on your search history
• Sign up for error fare alerts: Occasional pricing mistakes can lead to extremely cheap tickets

Baggage Considerations

Budget airlines make significant revenue from baggage fees. Plan accordingly:

• Check baggage allowances: Budget carriers often allow only 7kg of carry-on luggage
• Pre-pay for checked bags online: Much cheaper than paying at the airport
• Pack light: Consider traveling with only a carry-on to avoid baggage fees entirely
• Wear your heaviest clothes on the flight to save luggage weight

Airport Transportation in Vietnam

Upon arrival, avoid expensive airport taxis with these budget options:

Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport)

• Public Bus: NPR 325 to the city center
• Minibus: NPR 650-780 with hotel drop-off
• Pre-booked airport pickup: NPR 1,300-1,950 (worth considering after a long flight)

Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat International Airport)

• Public Bus: NPR 260 to the city center
• Grab car: NPR 780-1,300 depending on destination
• Airport shuttle bus: NPR 520-650 to major districts

With these flight strategies, you can potentially save NPR 25,000-40,000 on your international transportation, allowing you to allocate more of your budget to experiences within Vietnam.

Currency, ATMs, and Money Management

How Far Does NPR 130 (approximately $1) Go in Vietnam?

• 2-3 cups of local coffee
• 1-2 banh mi sandwiches
• A plate of com binh dan (mixed rice with sides)
• 2-3 local beers at street-side stalls
• 1-2 short motorbike taxi rides

Is NPR 13,000 ($100) a Lot of Money in Vietnam?

NPR 13,000 represents significant purchasing power:

• A week of comfortable hostel accommodation
• 4-5 days of meals, including occasional restaurant dining
• A high-end hotel room for one night
• A custom-tailored suit in Hoi An

ATM Tips for Budget Travelers

• Withdrawal limits: Most ATMs limit withdrawals to 260,000-650,000 NPR per transaction
• Fees: Local banks typically charge NPR 400-600 per foreign card transaction
• Best banks: Vietcombank, TPBank, and Military Bank have higher limits and more reliable service

Cash vs. Cards in Vietnam

While Vietnam has been gradually adopting card payments, cash remains king, especially for:

• Street food vendors
• Local markets
• Small shops and businesses
• Transportation (buses, taxis, motorbike taxis)
• Rural areas and smaller towns

Vietnam FAQs for Budget Travelers

Money, Costs, and Budgeting

What is the cheapest way to travel in Vietnam?

Local buses for long distances and walking or Grab bikes in cities.

How much should I budget for a trip to Vietnam?

NPR 3,200-4,000 per day for budget travelers.

Is 1 lakh NPR enough for a Vietnam trip?

Yes, sufficient for a 10-day budget trip including accommodation, food, and activities.

How much would a Vietnam trip cost?

NPR 100,000-150,000 for a 2-week budget trip excluding international flights.

How much is a budget for a 7-day itinerary in Vietnam?

NPR 22,400-32,000 total for accommodation, food, transportation, and activities.

Is NPR 100 a lot of money in Vietnam?

No, it buys a basic street food snack or local coffee.

How much is 1000 NPR in Vietnam?

Approximately 307,000 Vietnamese dong, enough for a decent meal.

Transportation Questions

Is there a train from Hanoi to Da Nang?

Yes, 15-16 hours with options from NPR 3,200 (hard seat) to NPR 8,000 (soft sleeper).

Is Hanoi to Da Nang luxury train worth it?

Only if comfort is priority; standard soft sleeper provides better value.

How to travel Hanoi to Ha Long Bay?

Public bus (NPR 650-900), tourist shuttle (NPR 1,300-2,000), or day tour package (NPR 4,500-5,800).

What is the best way to get around in Vietnam?

Grab bikes for cities, buses/trains for long distances, and motorbike rental for rural areas.

Visa and Travel Requirements

Do I need a visa for Vietnam?

Depends on nationality, many Western and ASEAN countries get 15-30 day visa exemptions.

How much does a Vietnam visa cost?

E-visa costs NPR 3,200 for single entry (30 days) and NPR 6,500 for multiple entry.

What documents do I need to enter Vietnam?

Passport valid 6+ months, visa or exemption proof, return ticket, and completed entry form.

Travel Seasons and Planning

Which month is best to visit Vietnam?

October-April for northern regions; February-August for central and southern areas.

Which part of Vietnam is the cheapest?

Northern Vietnam, especially rural areas and smaller cities like Ninh Binh and Hai Phong.

How many days are enough for Vietnam trip?

Minimum 10 days to explore one region; 3 weeks for a comprehensive north-to-south journey.

Why is Vietnam so cheap to travel?

Lower cost of living, strong tourism competition, and developed budget travel infrastructure.

Miscellaneous Questions

What is Vietnam famous for?

Street food, war history, beautiful landscapes, traditional crafts, and coffee culture.

Is eating out cheap in Vietnam?

Yes, street food meals cost NPR 130-390, while local restaurants range NPR 390-900.

Do they speak English in Vietnam?

Basic English is common in tourist areas and hotels; less common in rural areas.

Is Indian food available in Vietnam?

Yes, in major tourist cities, but limited elsewhere.

The Value of Budget Travel in Vietnam

How to travel Vietnam on a budget, Vietnam travel guide isn’t just about saving money, it’s about embracing a more authentic way to experience this fascinating country. The constraints of budget travel push us beyond tourist bubbles into genuine cultural exchanges and unexpected adventures.

Vietnam rewards the budget traveler with experiences that feel genuinely priceless. The sunrise over terraced rice fields, the joy of finding a perfect bowl of pho from a street vendor, and the warmth of Vietnamese hospitality.

When planning your Vietnamese adventure, remember that Gomayu offers exceptional Vietnam packages that provide excellent value while maintaining quality experiences. If you’re looking for a customized itinerary that balances your budget priorities with your travel dreams, Gomayu’s flexibility allows you to create the perfect Vietnamese journey.

With careful planning, an open mind, and the tips from this Vietnam travel guide, “How to Travel Vietnam on a Budget” , your Vietnamese adventure awaits rich in experiences but light on expenses. The real value of travel can’t be measured in dong or rupees but in the moments that take your breath away and the memories that last a lifetime.

Happy travels!