Vietnam on a Budget: Cost Breakdown for Every Traveler

Vietnam, with its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history, is a dream destination for budget travelers. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene beaches of Phu Quoc, Vietnam tour packages offer affordable ways to explore this Southeast Asian gem.
This article breaks down the costs for accommodations, food, transportation, activities, and more, helping you plan a budget-friendly trip.
Accommodations: Affordable Comfort
Vietnam offers a range of lodging options for budget-conscious travelers. Hostels and guesthouses are widely available, costing $5–$15 per night for a dorm bed or basic private room. In cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, you can find clean, comfortable hostels with free Wi-Fi and breakfast for as low as $7.
Mid-range hotels, offering more amenities, range from $20–$40 per night. For example, a double room in a 3-star hotel in Da Nang might cost around $25. Booking through Vietnam tour packages often includes discounted stays, bundling accommodations with activities for better value.
Homestays, especially in rural areas like Sapa or the Mekong Delta, provide cultural immersion for $10–$20 per night.
Food: A Culinary Adventure on a Budget
Vietnamese cuisine is a highlight, and it’s incredibly affordable. Street food staples like phở, bánh mì, and fresh spring rolls cost $1–$3 per meal. A bowl of phở in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or a bánh mì in Hoi An markets can be as cheap as $1.50. Local restaurants charge $3–$6 for hearty dishes like bun cha or cao lầu.
For drinks, Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk costs about $1, while a bottle of local beer, like Saigon or Hanoi Beer, is around $0.50–$1. Eating like a local keeps costs low, but even tourist-oriented restaurants rarely exceed $10 per meal. Daily food budgets can range from $5–$15, depending on your preferences.
Transportation: Getting Around Cheaply
Vietnam’s transportation network is budget-friendly and diverse. Intercity buses, like the popular “sleeper” buses, connect major cities for $10–$20 per trip. For example, a 12-hour journey from Hanoi to Hue costs about $15. Trains, offering scenic views, are another affordable option, with tickets ranging from $15–$30 for overnight routes. In cities, Grab motorbike taxis or cyclo rides cost $0.50–$2 for short trips.
Renting a motorbike for a day is $5–$10, ideal for exploring places like Da Lat or Ninh Binh. Domestic flights, if booked early, can be as low as $30–$50 one-way with budget airlines like VietJet. Many Vietnam tour packages include transportation, streamlining costs and logistics.
Activities and Sightseeing: Affordable Exploration
Vietnam’s attractions are remarkably budget-friendly. Entry fees to major sites, like the Cu Chi Tunnels or Hue’s Imperial City, range from $1–$5. Halong Bay cruises, a must-do, start at $50 for a day trip, though multi-day options cost more.
Free activities, like strolling Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Lake or exploring Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets, add no extra cost. Guided tours to places like Sapa’s rice terraces or the Mekong Delta typically cost $20–$40 per day, often including meals and transport. Budget travelers can keep daily activity costs between $10–$30 by mixing paid and free experiences.
Miscellaneous Costs: Visas, SIM Cards, and More
A tourist visa for Vietnam costs $25 for a single-entry e-visa, valid for 30 days. A local SIM card with 1GB daily data is around $10 for a month, ensuring affordable connectivity. Miscellaneous expenses, like souvenirs or laundry, might add $5–$10 daily. Tipping isn’t customary, saving you extra costs.
Total Budget Breakdown
For a budget traveler, daily costs in Vietnam can range from $25–$50, covering basic accommodations, street food, local transport, and a mix of activities. Mid-range travelers spending on hotels and guided tours might budget $50–$80 per day.
With careful planning or Vietnam tour packages, a 10-day trip could cost $250–$800, making Vietnam an unbeatable destination for value and adventure.
Also Read: A Complete Travel Guide To Hoi An 2025 – Vietnam’s Most Charming Town