Vietnam isn’t just beautiful—it’s brilliantly affordable, thanks to its cheap USD exchange rates. Whether you're sipping coffee in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or cruising down the Mekong Delta, your money goes way further here than in most places in Southeast Asia.
If you’re the kind of traveler who loves street food, scooter rides, and late-night markets, Vietnam delivers all of these brilliance without draining your bank account. From $1 meals to $5 hostel stays per night, you can explore the nation comfortably with just $20–30 a day.
Forget restaurants—street food is where the real flavor (and value) lives. You’ll find locals crouched on plastic stools, slurping noodles and laughing over grilled pork dishes, for the fraction of the price compare to Western foods!
Some must-tries options we can recommend to you:
Bánh mì – crispy baguette stuffed with meats, herbs, and sauces (~25K VND / $1)
Phở – classic Vietnamese noodle soup (~30–40K VND / $1.25–$1.60)
Bún chả – grilled pork with rice noodles in Hanoi (~40K VND / $1.6)
Travel Vietnam on a Budget: Streets Food[/caption]
👉 Vietnam backpacking tips: Follow the crowds. If you see locals queueing, that’s your green light.
Backpackers have plenty of choices when it comes to cheap accomodation. Vietnam is packed with clean, cheap hostels (mostly around Old Quarters)—some even come with free breakfasts, swimming pool rooftop , or beer pong nights.
Dorm beds: from $4–$8/night
Capsule hostels: cozy, private, still around $10
Sleeper buses: transport + bed in one (~200K VND / $8)
Quiri Hostel[/caption]
📍 In Hanoi? Check out Quiri Hostel—right in the Old Quarter with free breakfast, a welcome beer, and cozy dorms. Perfect base to explore Vietnam on a budget.
Vietnam is super budget-traveler friendly when it comes to getting around:
Public buses: Local buses for just 7K–9K VND (~$0.30)
Xanh SM/Grab taxis: Online taxis & fair pricing via app.
Open bus tickets: Flexible hop-on-hop-off bus routes for long-distance travel
Vietjet & Bamboo Airways: Budget airlines with deals as low as $10 if you book early
👉 Vietnam backpacking tips: Avoid taxis flagged on the street in tourist areas—they often will overcharge you.
Here’s other options to explore Vietnam deeply—without splurging:
Free walking tours in Hanoi, Saigon, and Hoi An (tip-based!)
Cooking classes with market trips (usually ~$10–$15)
Temples & lakes are often free (Ngoc Son, Hoan Kiem Lake, etc.)
Craft workshops: Make your own lanterns or try pottery in Bat Trang village
Night markets: Window-shop, eat, and people-watch with just a few bucks
Eat and Drink at Hanoi's Old Quarter Night Market[/caption]
These are some of the most affordable things to do in Vietnam that bring you closer to the culture.
Make your trip smoother and cheaper with these handy apps:
BusMap: Navigate Hanoi or HCMC’s public buses like a local
Xanh SM: Reliable, electric taxi option (cheaper than Grab)
MoMo or ZaloPay: Pay cashless and avoid ATM fees
XE Currency: Stay on top of exchange rates and spending
Negotiate, but politely: It’s common thing to do at markets, but don’t push too hard.
Refill water: Bring a bottle and refill at hostels or restaurants.
Use ATMs with no fees: Try TPBank or ACB for lower charges.
Don’t book tours you came across on the street: Use your hostel or research online first.
Looking for the perfect Hanoi base while you travel Vietnam on a budget?
Quiri Hostel offers:
✅ Comfy beds in a cozy dorm setting
✅ Free breakfast & a welcome beer (you earned it)
✅ Tour help for Ha Giang Loop, Sapa treks, Ninh Binh day trips
✅ Located right in the buzzing Old Quarter
📍 Address: 25 Hàng Lược, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi
🌐 Book now at Quiri Hostel
You don’t need a big budget to have a big adventure in Vietnam. With a few smart choices and a flexible attitude, you can see the country’s best sides without burning through your wallet. What you expect is budget options, is actually living like the locals do!
Now pack your bag, charge your phone, and let the street food guide you.