5 Powerful Budget Saving Tips in Vietnam for Smart Travelers

Vietnam is a paradise for travelers on a budget. From mouthwatering street food to scenic landscapes and vibrant culture, you can experience the best of the country without spending a fortune. But even in a destination as affordable as Vietnam, having a few tricks up your sleeve can help you save even more and travel smarter.

In this guide, we’ll share 5 powerful budget saving tips in Vietnam that will help you stretch your dong (Vietnamese currency) while maximizing your travel experience. Whether you’re backpacking, traveling with family, or working remotely on the go, these insider tips will help you explore more and spend less.

1. Eat Like a Local: Affordable & Authentic

One of the easiest budget saving tips in Vietnam is to embrace local cuisine. Vietnam is famous for its flavorful dishes that are not only delicious but also extremely affordable.

What to try:

Pho (Vietnamese noodle soup): $1.50–$2.50
Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich): $1–$2
Bun Cha, Goi Cuon, and many other street eats

Where to eat:

Local markets and street vendors in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang
Food courts in shopping centers for a clean and affordable dining environment
Popular chains like Pho 24 or Bun Bo Hue 3A3 for consistent quality at low prices

Tip:

Avoid restaurants near major tourist attractions—they’re usually overpriced. Instead, follow locals or use Google Maps to find high-rated eateries in residential neighborhoods.

2. Use Public Transportation & Apps

Transportation in Vietnam is already cheap, but knowing how to navigate the system will save you even more.

Transportation tips:

Buses: Intercity buses (like Phuong Trang or The Sinh Tourist) offer low-cost travel between cities
Train: The Reunification Express is affordable and scenic for long routes
Motorbike taxis & ride-hailing apps: Use Grab or Be instead of traditional taxis
Metro (HCMC): Starting to expand, metro lines will soon be a great budget option

Approximate costs:

Grab motorbike ride: $1–$2 for short distances
Sleeper bus: $10–$15 between cities
Local buses: $0.30–$0.60

Tip:

Download ride-sharing apps and connect your international credit/debit card for seamless payment. Avoid airport taxis unless arranged in advance.

3. Book Accommodation Smartly

Vietnam offers a wide range of accommodations—from hostels to luxury resorts. To save while staying comfortable, try the following:

Types of budget accommodations:

Homestays: Cultural immersion + lower prices
Guesthouses: Family-run and friendly
Budget hotels: Clean and basic options in central locations
Hostels: Best for solo travelers or groups

Where to book:

Use Agoda, Booking.com, or Hostelworld for good deals
Airbnb offers competitive rates for long-term stays
Direct booking often gives you better discounts or free breakfast

Tip:

Stay in areas slightly outside the city center to reduce costs without sacrificing convenience. For example, District 3 in Ho Chi Minh City or Tay Ho in Hanoi.

4. Explore Free or Low-Cost Attractions

A great budget saving tip in Vietnam is to explore the many free or low-cost activities available throughout the country. Natural beauty and cultural heritage are everywhere—you just need to know where to look.

Low-cost attractions include:

Temples and Pagodas: Most are free or charge $0.50–$1 for entrance
Museums: $1–$2 entry fee
National Parks: Entry from $2–$5
Markets: Great places for sightseeing and photography

Top free things to do:

Walk along Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi
Watch the sunset at My Khe Beach in Da Nang
Visit the War Remnants Museum in HCMC (just $1.50)
Explore traditional villages or rice paddies in Sapa or Ninh Binh

Tip:

Take free walking tours (especially in Hanoi or HCMC) guided by university students. They offer cultural insight while practicing English.

5. Shop Smart: Bargain & Buy Local

Shopping in Vietnam can be fun, especially in local markets where bargaining is part of the experience. But it’s also an area where tourists often overspend. Here’s how to save:

How to bargain:

Always ask for a lower price in markets
Smile and be polite, but walk away if the price is too high
Learn a few Vietnamese numbers or phrases—it helps!

Where to buy:

Local markets (Ben Thanh, Dong Xuan)
Night markets in Da Lat, Hoi An, or Hanoi Old Quarter
Handicraft villages for authentic souvenirs

Avoid:

Airport gift shops
Tourist-focused stalls in front of major attractions

Tip:

For tailored clothing, go to Hoi An, where you’ll find excellent deals compared to your home country. Just be clear on pricing and turnaround time.

Bonus: Use a Local SIM Card

Mobile data in Vietnam is fast and cheap. Using a local SIM can help you save on navigation, bookings, and communication.

Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone offer tourist SIM cards
Costs range from $3–$7 for a week with 5–10GB data
Buy at the airport or official telecom stores in cities

Conclusion: Travel Smart with These Budget Saving Tips in Vietnam

Traveling through Vietnam doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality or experiences. With these budget saving tips in Vietnam, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable adventure—whether you’re exploring bustling cities, relaxing on the coast, or wandering through rural villages.

By eating local, using affordable transport, booking smart, and avoiding tourist traps, your wallet will thank you—and your memories will be just as rich as those who spent three times more.

Ready to plan your budget-friendly Vietnam getaway? Keep these tips in mind and explore more for less!