Vietnam continues to grow in popularity as a travel destination, attracting visitors with its dynamic cities, breathtaking landscapes, and a remarkable blend of affordability and quality. Whether you’re exploring bustling Hanoi or the serene beaches of Phu Quoc, understanding the local currency and payment systems will enhance your travel experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to handling money during your trip to Vietnam.

Currency in Vietnam
The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnam đồng (VND), symbolised by ₫. The đồng is issued in both small paper bills and larger, durable polymer notes, ranging from 10,000 VND to 500,000 VND. Coins are not in circulation.

Due to the high denomination of banknotes, travellers may find it helpful to mentally remove the last three zeros when calculating prices. For a quick conversion to US dollars, remove three zeros and divide by 26.

Note: The 20,000 VND and 500,000 VND notes are similarly blue in color—pay close attention to avoid confusion when making payments.

Accessing Cash and Exchanging Currency
It is advisable to carry some local currency upon arrival. ATMs are widely available across all major cities and tourist destinations, with machines accepting international cards—most notably Visa—located immediately outside arrival gates at international airports.

– Local ATMs typically allow withdrawals of 2–3 million VND per transaction (~USD 80–130).

– International bank ATMs may permit larger withdrawals of 5–10 million VND.

Currency exchange counters are readily available at airports, hotels, and banks, as well as within popular tourist areas.

Travel Tip: When visiting remote areas, it is recommended to withdraw additional cash in advance, as ATMs may be limited and card payments may not be accepted—particularly when purchasing handcrafted items directly from local artisans.

Card Payments and Electronic Transactions
While cash remains the primary method of payment for small purchases and street vendors, credit and debit cards—particularly Visa—are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, boutiques, and spas. Most larger expenses, including accommodations and tours, can be paid by card either on-site or in advance online.

Contactless payments are increasingly common, especially in urban centres. This method not only offers convenience but also reduces the risk of card loss or theft, as your card never leaves your hand during the transaction.

Safety and Handling Money
Vietnam is considered a safe destination for tourists, but standard precautions are always advised. Keep valuables such as passports, cards, and large amounts of cash secured in your hotel safe. When in public spaces, carry wallets and purses securely and be mindful in crowded areas.

Using cards with security features—such as Visa’s 3D Secure—adds an additional layer of protection against fraud and unauthorized transactions.

Tipping and Bargaining Etiquette
Tipping is not customary in Vietnam, but it is increasingly welcomed in certain service sectors such as beauty salons and by private tour guides. In restaurants and cafés, tipping is not expected but always appreciated.

When tipping, consider local price standards—a meal might cost between 30,000–40,000 VND, which can help determine a fair and meaningful tip amount.

Bargaining is a common practice in markets and tourist areas. Polite negotiation is expected and can often result in a better deal. To ensure fair pricing, visit multiple vendors and compare rates before making a purchase.

With its affordability, diverse attractions, and growing convenience in financial services, Vietnam offers a travel experience that’s both enriching and accessible. By familiarising yourself with the country’s currency and payment practices, you can navigate your trip with greater ease and confidence—leaving more time to enjoy everything Vietnam has to offer.