Vietnam Budget Travel – A Guide for Backpackers & Budget Travelers

Vietnam Budget Travel – A Guide for Backpackers & Budget Travelers

Vietnam is one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Asia, offering affordable food, transport, and accommodation. Whether you're a backpacker or a budget-conscious traveler, Vietnam has plenty of ways to help you save money while exploring its stunning landscapes, historic cities, and vibrant culture.

This guide will cover how to travel Vietnam cheaply, the best budget accommodations, affordable transport options, and where to find cheap street food and free attractions.

1. How to Travel Vietnam on a Low Budget

Vietnam is known for being incredibly cheap for travelers. With careful planning, you can explore the country for as little as $25–$40 per day.

✔ Daily Budget Breakdown:

Budget Traveler: $20–$40 per day

Mid-Range Traveler: $50–$80 per day

Luxury Traveler: $100+ per day

Here’s how to maximize your budget:

✔ Eat Local: Street food costs $1–$3 per meal, while restaurants can be $5–$10.

✔ Use Local Transport: Buses, trains, and motorbikes are cheaper than taxis and flights.

✔ Stay in Hostels & Homestays: Budget dorm beds start at $5 per night.

✔ Visit Free Attractions: Many cultural sites, markets, and natural landmarks are completely free.

Pro Tip: Use XE Currency app to track exchange rates and get the best value for your money.

2. Best Budget Accommodations in Vietnam

Vietnam offers affordable accommodation options, backpacker hostels to budget homestays.

2.1. Best Budget Hostels in Vietnam ($5–$10 per night)

Hanoi: Old Quarter View Hostel ($7)

Ho Chi Minh City: The Like Hostel ($6)

Hoi An: Tribee Bana Hostel ($8)

Da Nang: Funtastic Beach Hostel ($9)

2.2. Best Budget Hotels & Homestays ($10–$20 per night)

Ninh Binh: Tam Coc Bungalow ($15)

Sapa: Go Sapa Hostel ($12)

Hue: Sunshine Hostel ($14)

Mui Ne: LongSon Mui Ne Campground ($10)

Booking Tips:

✔ Use Agoda, Booking.com, and Hostelworld to find the best deals.

✔ Stay in homestays for a more authentic and affordable experience.

3. Cheap Transportation in Vietnam

Vietnam has affordable and reliable transportation options for budget travelers.

3.1. Local Transport (Within Cities & Towns)

✔ Public Buses – Tickets cost $0.30–$1 per ride.

✔ Motorbike Rentals – $5–$8 per day (great for exploring smaller towns).

✔ Grab & Xe Om (Motorbike Taxis) – Cheaper than traditional taxis.

Tip: Always negotiate fares when using Xe Om or local taxis.

3.2. Intercity Travel – How to Travel Cheaply Between Cities

✔ Sleeper Buses – $10–$25 for long distances (comfortable & budget-friendly).

✔ Trains – $15–$40 depending on class (great for scenic views).

✔ Budget Airlines (VietJet & Bamboo Airways) – $25–$60 for domestic flights.

Best Budget Routes:

Hanoi → Ninh Binh (Bus/Train – $4)

Hoi An → Da Nang (Bus – $2, Motorbike – $5/day)

Ho Chi Minh → Mui Ne (Sleeper Bus – $10)

Pro Tip: Use 12Go.Asia or Baolau to book cheap transport tickets online.

4. Where to Find Cheap Street Food in Vietnam

Vietnam is famous for its delicious street food, which is cheap, fresh, and available everywhere.

4.1. Must-Try Cheap Street Food in Vietnam

Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup) – ~$2

Banh Mi (Vietnamese Sandwich) – ~$1

Goi Cuon (Fresh Spring Rolls) – ~$2

Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Pancake) – ~$3

Com Tam (Broken Rice with Grilled Pork) – ~$2

4.2. Best Places for Budget Street Food

Hanoi: Dong Xuan Market, Old Quarter Street Stalls

Ho Chi Minh City: Ben Thanh Street Food Market

Hoi An: Night Market on Nguyen Hoang Street

Da Nang: Han Market, My Khe Beach Street Vendors

Tip: Eat where locals eat to get the best food at the lowest prices.

5. Free & Cheap Things to Do in Vietnam

Vietnam has many free and low-cost attractions perfect for budget travelers.

5.1. Free Attractions in Vietnam

✔ Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter – Walk through the bustling streets and markets.

✔ Visit Ho Chi Minh City’s Notre-Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office – Iconic landmarks.

✔ Hike in Sapa’s Rice Terraces – DIY trekking is free!

✔ Relax on Vietnam’s Beaches – My Khe, Phu Quoc, Mui Ne (no entry fee).

Pro Tip: Many temples, parks, and museums have free entry or cost under $2–$5.

6. Budget Travel Tips for Vietnam

✔ Use Cash – Most street vendors and budget hotels don’t accept credit cards.

✔ Travel Overnight – Take night buses or trains to save on accommodation costs.

✔ Avoid Tourist Scams – Always confirm prices before purchasing tours or souvenirs.

✔ Use Refillable Water Bottles – Save money and avoid plastic waste.

✔ Join Free Walking Tours – Available in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hoi An.

Bonus Tip: Connect with other travelers through budget Facebook groups & Couchsurfing to find cheap deals!

Final Thoughts

Vietnam is a budget traveler’s paradise, offering cheap food, affordable transport, and free attractions. With hostels starting at $5, street food for $1, and budget buses for $10, you can easily travel Vietnam for under $30 per day.

Are you ready for an unforgettable budget adventure in Vietnam? Pack your bags and start exploring!