Vietnam Travel Cost: What Will Your Trip Really Cost?

To estimate the cost of traveling to Vietnam for 2, 3, or 4 weeks, it is important to first examine the detailed expenses. These figures vary depending on the type of traveler and their needs. Whether you are traveling as a couple, with friends, or with family, here are the "fixed" costs you should absolutely take into account:

1.1. How much are flights to Vietnam in 2026?

Let's be real: The flight ticket is going to be your biggest single expense. In 2026, airfares have crept up globally due to fuel costs and high demand, so don't expect those rock-bottom prices we saw a few years ago. But deals still exist if you know where to look.

If you are flying from the US, budget around $900 – $1,500. Since there are virtually no direct flights, you will likely transit through Taipei (EVA Air is a solid choice), Seoul, or Tokyo.

From Europe or Australia? You have it easier with prices ranging $500 – $1,100 thanks to direct routes from major hubs like London, Frankfurt, Sydney, and Melbourne.

✈️ Getting around Vietnam (Domestic Flights):

Flying is the only sensible way to cover the long stretch between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (it saves you a 30-hour train ride!).

Here is the reality on the ground in 2026: Bamboo Airways has cut back significantly on routes, leaving the market mostly to Vietnam Airlines (Reliable) and VietJet (Budget).

Expect to pay $50 - $100 for a one-way ticket. Please, do yourself a favor and book this at least 3 weeks in advance. If you wait until the last minute, you might end up paying double.

>>> Related articles:
✅ Guide to Finding Flights in Vietnam

1.2. What is the official Vietnam E-Visa cost?

The official government fee for a Vietnam E-visa is exactly $25 USD (Single entry) or $50 USD (Multiple entry). Not a cent more.

If you see a website asking for $80 or $100 for a "processing fee," close that tab immediately. You are on a private agency site looking to make a quick profit. There is only ONE official government portal: evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn.

🛂 Do you even need a visa?

It depends on your passport. Here is the 2026 policy snapshot according to official sources:

• The "Lucky" Ones (Visa Exemption): Citizens of UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, South Korea, Japan (and others) get 45 days visa-free. You just land and stamp. $0 cost.
• The "Must-Apply" Ones: Citizens of the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand MUST apply for the E-visa ($25) before arrival. There is no visa on arrival for tourists unless a pre-approval letter is arranged in advance.
• Special Phu Quoc 30-day visa exemption: Many international visitors can stay in Phu Quoc Island visa-free for up to 30 days if they enter directly by international flight or sea and do not travel to mainland Vietnam during that stay. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months, and you must depart within 30 days to qualify.

>>> Read more: All About Vietnam Visas

1.3. Is Travel Insurance mandatory?

• Short answer: No. Immigration officers will not check for insurance at the airport.
• Real answer: absolutely YES. especially if you plan to sit on a motorbike (even as a passenger).

Vietnam's traffic is organized chaos. While local healthcare is cheap, international hospitals (where you will want to go for English-speaking doctors) charge Western prices. A simple food poisoning visit can cost $200. A scooter accident requiring surgery? That can easily hit $5,000 – $10,000. Do not risk your life savings for a $50 policy.

💰 Estimated Cost:
Budget around $3 – $5 per day for a comprehensive plan (e.g., SafetyWing, World Nomads). For a 2-week trip, that is roughly $50 – $70 total. That is the price of one nice seafood dinner.

>>> Read more: Travel insurance Vietnam 2025

2. Your Daily Vietnam Travel Cost

Let's break down exactly what your money buys you in 2026. Are you sleeping in a bunk bed or a colonial suite? Here is the breakdown:

2.1. The Backpacker ($30–$40/day)

• The Reality: You are here for the culture and the chaos. With $30, you get a clean dorm bed in the Old Quarter ($6-$10), unlimited Banh Mi ($1), and Bia Hoi (Fresh Beer) for $0.40 a glass.
• The Trade-off: You will likely take overnight sleeper buses to save on hotel costs. It’s cheap, but don't expect a perfect night's sleep. This budget is for those who prioritize experiences over comfort.

2.2. The Mid-Range Traveler ($60–$90/day)

• The Upgrade: This is where you get the most bang for your buck. For an extra $30/day, the quality of your trip doubles.

Instead of a bunk bed, you get a private room in a charming 3-star boutique hotel with a pool ($35-$50). Instead of a crowded bus, you take a 1-hour flight from Hanoi to Danang. You eat street food for lunch because it's delicious, not because you have to. This is the comfort level most Kampá Tour clients choose.

2.3. The Luxury Seeker ($150+/day)

• The Value: In Paris or Tokyo, $200 gets you a standard room. In Vietnam, it makes you feel like royalty.

We are talking about 5-star beachfront resorts with private pools, fine dining fusion cuisine, and, crucially, private cars with chauffeurs. No waiting in lines, no haggling with taxis. If you want to experience world-class luxury for a fraction of the global price, this is it.

2.4. The Family Traveler (Family of 4)

• Daily Budget: ~$200 – $300 (Total for whole family)

Traveling with kids is a logistics game. Here is how spending a little more saves your sanity:

• The "Connecting Room" Strategy: Don't book two random rooms. We book Family Suites (2 connecting rooms) in 4-star hotels. It’s safer for the kids and often cheaper than two separate bookings.
• The Transport Math: Buying 4 train or bus tickets adds up fast. Surprisingly, hiring a private 7-seater van often costs nearly the same for a group of 4, but you get AC, privacy, and the freedom to stop whenever the kids need a break.
• The "Picky Eater" Fund: Local food is great, but sometimes your kids just want a pizza. Western food is available in every major city ($8-$12/meal), and this budget covers those "comfort food" emergencies.

3. Detailed Cost Menu: Food, Accommodation & Transport

3.1. How much does accommodation cost?

One of the best surprises in Vietnam is that "budget" doesn't mean "bad". Your money stretches incredibly far here. A $40 room in Hanoi often rivals a $150 room in London.

Here is the 2026 price menu for a standard double room:

For Backpackers (The Savers):

• Hostel Dorm Bed: $6 to $12 per night. Modern, clean, and social. Many include free beer hours.
• Guesthouse Private Room: $15 to $25 per night. Basic but private. You get AC, a private bathroom, and usually a helpful host family.

For Mid-Range Travelers (The Sweet Spot):

• 3-Star Boutique Hotel: $35 to $55 per night.

This is the best value category. Expect a stylish room in the Old Quarter (Hanoi) or Ancient Town (Hoi An), a rooftop pool, and a full buffet breakfast included.

For Luxury Seekers (The Spenders):

• 5-Star Hotels and Resorts: Starts at $100+ per night.
• The Value: International luxury brands (InterContinental, Marriott) often cost 50 percent less here than in other Asian hubs.

Halong Bay Overnight Cruise

• $130 to $250 per person (2 Days / 1 Night).
• Note: This isn't just a room; it is a full board package including 4 meals, excursions (kayaking, caves), and a luxury suite on the water.

>>> Read more: 

• Best Hotels & Resorts in Phu Quoc
• Best Hotels in Ninh Binh
• Top Hotels & Homestays in Sapa
• Top 10 Most Recommended Hotels in Hoi An
• Top 10 Vietnam Ecolodges to Savor Nature’s Magic

3.2. How much is food and drink?

In New York or London, $10 gets you a sandwich. In Vietnam, $10 gets you a feast.

The real danger here isn't overspending; it's overeating. Vietnamese cuisine is arguably the healthiest and most affordable in the world. Even with 2026 inflation, street food remains untouched by high prices.

Here is your 2026 Purchasing Power Index (What your money actually buys):

3.3. How much is transportation in Vietnam?

Getting around Vietnam is easier than ever, but you need to choose between saving time or saving money. Here is the breakdown of what you’ll actually pay:

Short Distances and City Travel

• Grab App (Recommended): This is the "Uber of Southeast Asia". Expect to pay about $0.60 per km for a car and much less for a motorbike taxi. It’s the best way to avoid being overcharged by random taxis.
• Traditional Taxis: If you hail one on the street, stick to reputable brands like Mai Linh or Vinasun. A 15 minute ride usually costs $3 to $7.

Long Distances (Intercity)

• Domestic Flights: The fastest way to cover the 1,000 km plus distance between North and South.
• Cost: $40 to $100 one way (Hanoi to Da Nang or Saigon).
• Note: Fares have increased in 2026. Book at least 2 weeks early to avoid paying double.
• Trains (The Scenic Route): Perfect for the Hanoi to Sapa or Hanoi to Hue routes.
• Cost: Around $30 to $40 for a soft sleeper bed to Sapa and $60 to $75 to Hue. It's slow (50 km per hour), but the views are priceless.
• Sleeper Buses: The cheapest way to travel.
• Cost: $10 to $20 for a 4 to 8 hour journey. Great for the budget, but not recommended for those who value a good night’s sleep.

Private Car with Driver

If you are a family of 4, hiring a private car and driver ($60 to $120 per day) is often cheaper and much safer than booking multiple individual bus tickets or attempting to drive yourself.

💡 Oliver’s Expert Tip: Do not rent a car to drive yourself. Traffic in Vietnam is "organized chaos," and your home license is rarely enough if an accident happens. For day trips to places like Ninh Binh or the Mekong Delta, booking a private car through Kampá Tour ensures you have a professional driver who knows the "rules of the road."

✅ How to Get Around Vietnam

3.4. Activities & Entrance Fees

One of the best parts of traveling in Vietnam is that you don't need a huge budget to have incredible experiences. From ancient temples to stunning natural landscapes, many activities are surprisingly affordable, and some of the most memorable moments are completely free.

Entrance Fees:

• Standard Sites: Most museums and historical sites, like Hanoi's Temple of Literature, charge just $1–$8.
• Major UNESCO Heritage Sites: Larger complexes like Hue's Imperial City or the My Son ruins cost around $10–$15.

Popular Tour Costs:

• Day Trip (e.g., Cu Chi Tunnels): From $15.
• Sapa Trekking (per day): Around $30–$70 (often includes guide & meals).
• Halong Bay Cruise (full day): Around $65.
• Private City Walking Tour: Around $50.

>>> Insider Tip: Exploring on your own by scooter is often the cheapest way to see the sights. However, if you book a tour (especially a budget one), always confirm what’s included. Entrance fees and meals are sometimes left out, leading to unexpected costs.

4. Hidden Costs, Money Logistics & Avoiding Scams

You’ve budgeted for hotels and flights, but let's talk about the "invisible" costs that can chip away at your wallet if you aren't careful. Here is the lowdown on handling money and connectivity in 2026 without getting ripped off.

4.1. The Money Game: Cash, Cards & The "Blue Note" Trap

Cash is still King. While you can swipe your card in major cities like Hanoi or Saigon, the moment you head to the countryside, think Ninh Binh or Ha Giang, plastic becomes useless. When you do use a card, watch out for the 3 to 4 percent surcharge many shops and hotels quietly add to the bill. Always ask before you swipe. As for getting cash, most local ATMs have a frustratingly low withdrawal limit of $80 to $120 and charge a fee every time. To save yourself the headache, look for TPBank or VPBank ATMs which allow larger withdrawals, or just bring a fee free card like Wise or Revolut.

4.2. Tipping: The "Happy" Money

Unlike in the US, tipping isn't mandatory here, but it is deeply appreciated. Think of it as a gesture of thanks rather than an obligation. For restaurants, leaving the loose change on the table is standard. However, for your tour guides and drivers, tips make up a significant part of their livelihood. If they made your day special, a guideline of $5 to $7 per day for a driver and $10 to $20 for a guide is a generous way to say "thank you".

>> Read More: Is Tipping Common in Vietnam? 

4.3. Staying Connected (SIM vs. eSIM)

Don't be the traveler relying on shaky hotel Wi Fi. You need data for Google Maps and Grab. You have two good options. The old school way is buying a physical SIM card for $8 to $12 from Viettel or Vinaphone kiosks right at the airport. Avoid street vendors selling SIMs. They often sell unregistered cards that die after a few days. The modern 2026 way is simple. If your phone is unlocked, just buy an eSIM via Airalo or Holafly before you even leave home. It connects the moment you land, saving you the hassle of queuing at the arrival hall.

>>> Read more: Best Vietnam SIM Card for Tourists 2025

4.4. Street Smarts: Scams & Refunds

Most people are honest, but tourist traps do exist. The classic one is the market price seafood menu where prices aren't listed. Always insist on seeing a printed price before ordering, or just walk away. And as I mentioned before, avoid the rigged taxi meters by sticking strictly to the Grab app.

But here is a financial win to end on. The VAT refund. If you buy clothes, electronics, or souvenirs worth over 2 million VND ($80) at a single shop, you are entitled to get money back. Look for the VAT Refund sign, ask for the form, and claim your 8.5 percent refund in cash at the airport before you fly home. It is a little bit of paperwork that can pay for your final airport meal.

>>> Related article: Is Vietnam Safe To Travel? 

5. Tips for Saving Costs While Traveling in Vietnam

Since we have already covered street food and using apps like Grab, I won't bore you by repeating them. Instead, let’s talk about the strategic moves that will save you hundreds of dollars on your trip.

• The "Tet" Warning (Timing is Everything): This is the single biggest budget killer for tourists. The Lunar New Year (Tet) usually falls in late January or early February. While it is a beautiful cultural festival, it is a financial nightmare for the unprepared. During this week, domestic flights skyrocket, hotels add a 30 to 300 percent surcharge, and many local shops close. Unless you have booked months in advance, I strongly recommend avoiding these specific dates if you are on a tight budget.
• The Art of "Friendly" Bargaining: In supermarkets or convenience stores (like WinMart or Circle K), prices are fixed. But in open markets like Ben Thanh or Dong Xuan, bargaining is expected. It is practically a national sport. Here is the secret. Do not be aggressive. Smile, joke around, and start by offering about 50 percent of the asking price. You will likely meet in the middle at about 70 to 75 percent. If the price is still too high, just walk away slowly. Nine times out of ten, they will call you back with a better offer.
• The "Refill" Rule: A bottle of water only costs 50 cents, but if you buy three a day for two weeks, that adds up to over $20 and a lot of useless plastic. Almost every decent hotel and homestay in Vietnam now provides a free filtered water dispenser in the lobby. Bring a reusable bottle, refill it every morning, and spend that saved $20 on a nice massage instead.
• Book Domestic Flights Early: I cannot stress this enough. The days of cheap last minute flights in Vietnam are over. Since the airline fleets have shrunk in 2026, seats fill up fast. Booking your Hanoi to Da Nang flight three weeks in advance might cost $45. Booking it the day before? Expect to pay $120. That price difference alone covers your hotel for two nights.

6. Real-World Example: The 14-Day "Classic" Budget

If you're coming to Vietnam for the first time, two weeks is long enough to travel from north to south, passing by must-see sites. In northern Vietnam, you can visit the thousand-year-old capital of Hanoi, immerse yourself in the authentic culture of the Sapa Mountains with their green rice fields, and visit Bac Ha with its colorful weekly markets. Take boat trips through the picturesque landscapes of Tam Coc to the land bay of Ninh Binh, and above all, take a cruise on the wonderful Halong Bay aboard a traditional junk.

In central Vietnam, visiting the UNESCO-listed charming cities of Hue and Hoi An will help you better understand the history of the country. The south will dazzle you with the Mekong Delta, its orchards and arroyos, and especially its wonderfully lively floating markets.

Check out Kampá Tours Vietnam 2-Week Itinerary: From North to South idea, priced at $1120 per person (excluding international flights), based on a group of six staying in standard hotels.

• Day 1: Hanoi - Arrival
• Day 2: Hanoi - City Tour - Lao Cai (1 Night By Train)
• Day 3: Lao Cai - Bac Ha 
• Day 4: Bac Ha - Sapa
• Day 5: Sapa - Hanoi
• Day 6: Hanoi - Ninh Binh - Hanoi
• Day 7: Hanoi - Halong Bay
• Day 8: Halong Bay - Hanoi - Evening Flight To Hue
• Day 9: Hue - City Tour
• Day 10: Hue - Hoi An 
• Day 11: Hoi An - Free Day
• Day 12: Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh
• Day 13: Ho Chi Minh - Mekong Delta
• Day 14: Mekong Delta - Ho Chi Minh - Departure

Independent Travel, Organized Tours, or a Private Tour: Which One Fits You?

Surely every time you go to a foreign country, you will find out if it is safe or if there is any tour organization. But with the myriad of forms of tourism today, it will be difficult for you to make the best choice based on your trip budget for Vietnam. So we will bring the 3 most popular forms of tourism to the table for comparison!

To sum it up!

• Organized tours are hassle-free. Everything is arranged for you, and a knowledgeable guide ensures a smooth, structured journey.
• Independent travel offers freedom and flexibility. You set the pace, create your own itinerary, and enjoy spontaneous moments of discovery.
• Private tours blend both styles. Like organized tours, they include expert planning and guidance but with full customization. You travel on your own schedule, with private transport and a dedicated local guide. This is ideal for those seeking both comfort and personal connection.

So, the best choice depends on your travel style, whether you prefer structure, independence, or a tailored mix of both. Let's take a look at the most desired tours as voted by our travelers!

FAQs

 Is $1,000 enough for 2 weeks in Vietnam?

Absolutely. $1,000 breaks down to about $71 per day. 

• You can travel comfortably in "Mid-Range" style: private rooms in 3-star boutique hotels, domestic flights instead of buses, and eating at restaurants daily.
• This excludes your international flights to get here.

Is Thailand or Vietnam cheaper?

Generally, Yes. While both are budget-friendly, Vietnam is currently 15-20% cheaper than Thailand for day-to-day spending.

• Beer Index: A local beer in Vietnam is $0.40. In Thailand, a Chang or Leo is usually $1.50 - $2.00.
• Food: A street food meal in Vietnam ($1-$2) is slightly cheaper than a similar meal in Bangkok ($2-$4).
• Accommodation: You get "more luxury for less" in Vietnam. A $50 hotel room in Da Nang often has a pool and sea view, which might cost $80+ in Phuket.

How much cash should I carry per day?

Don't walk around with millions. Vietnam is safe, but carrying a thick wad of cash makes you a target (and it's uncomfortable in the heat).

• Keep about 500,000 VND to 1,000,000 VND ($20 - $40) in your wallet for small expenses like street food, coffee, and taxis.
• Leave the rest in your hotel safe or withdraw as needed from ATMs.

How much does a private tour guide cost?

Less than you think.

• English-Speaking Guide Fee: If you just want to hire a guide for the day (excluding car/tickets), the standard rate is $45 - $60 per day.
• Full Day Private Tour: For a full package (Private Car + Driver + Guide + Tickets + Lunch), expect to pay around $80 - $120 for a group of 2 people. It is surprisingly affordable compared to Europe where a guide alone can cost €200+.

Do I need to tip in Vietnam?

Not mandatory, but highly appreciated.

• Street Food/Cafes: No tip needed.
• Restaurants: Leave the change or round up the bill.
• Guides & Drivers: They rely on tips. $5-$10/day is the standard "Thank You" for excellent service.

Our last words

Estimating the cost to travel in Vietnam is difficult because prices change over time. Yet, before you go to Vietnam, if you have any questions about your trip to our beautiful country and how to prepare your budget, don't hesitate to contact us! To make your trip easier and customize each itinerary to your preferences, we will be happy to assist you in creating a tailor-made trip!