Travel Vietnam on a Budget: 9 Local Hacks to Know!

🛫 1. Travel Vietnam on a Budget: Why It’s Perfect for Backpackers

Vietnam isn’t just beautiful—it’s brilliantly affordable, thanks to its cheap USD exchange rates. Whether you’re sipping coffee in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or cruising down the Mekong Delta, your money goes way further here than in most places in Southeast Asia.

If you’re the kind of traveler who loves street food, scooter rides, and late-night markets, Vietnam delivers all of these brilliance without draining your bank account. From $1 meals to $5 hostel stays per night, you can explore the nation comfortably with just $20–30 a day.

---

🍜 2. Street Food is King: Eat Like a Local

Forget restaurants—street food is where the real flavor (and value) lives. You’ll find locals crouched on plastic stools, slurping noodles and laughing over grilled pork dishes, for the fraction of the price compare to Western foods!

Some must-tries options we can recommend to you:

• Bánh mì – crispy baguette stuffed with meats, herbs, and sauces (~25K VND / $1)

• Phở – classic Vietnamese noodle soup (~30–40K VND / $1.25–$1.60)

• Bún chả – grilled pork with rice noodles in Hanoi (~40K VND / $1.6)

👉 Vietnam backpacking tips: Follow the crowds. If you see locals queueing, that’s your green light.

---

🏨 3. Budget Accommodation: Hostels, Homestays & Sleeper Buses

Backpackers have plenty of choices when it comes to cheap accomodation. Vietnam is packed with clean, cheap hostels (mostly around Old Quarters)—some even come with free breakfasts, swimming pool rooftop , or beer pong nights.

• Dorm beds: from $4–$8/night

• Capsule hostels: cozy, private, still around $10

• Sleeper buses: transport + bed in one (~200K VND / $8)

📍 In Hanoi? Check out Quiri Hostel—right in the Old Quarter with free breakfast, a welcome beer, and cozy dorms. Perfect base to explore Vietnam on a budget.

---

🛵 4. Transport Hacks: Getting Around for Cheap

Vietnam is super budget-traveler friendly when it comes to getting around:

• Public buses: Local buses for just 7K–9K VND (~$0.30)

• Xanh SM/Grab taxis: Online taxis & fair pricing via app.

• Open bus tickets: Flexible hop-on-hop-off bus routes for long-distance travel

• Vietjet & Bamboo Airways: Budget airlines with deals as low as $10 if you book early

👉 Vietnam backpacking tips: Avoid taxis flagged on the street in tourist areas—they often will overcharge you.

---

🎟️ 5. Other Affordable Things to Do in Vietnam:

Here’s other options to explore Vietnam deeply—without splurging:

• Free walking tours in Hanoi, Saigon, and Hoi An (tip-based!)

• Cooking classes with market trips (usually ~$10–$15)

• Temples & lakes are often free (Ngoc Son, Hoan Kiem Lake, etc.)

• Craft workshops: Make your own lanterns or try pottery in Bat Trang village

• Night markets: Window-shop, eat, and people-watch with just a few bucks

These are some of the most affordable things to do in Vietnam that bring you closer to the culture.

---

📱 6. Must-Have Budget Travel Apps

Make your trip smoother and cheaper with these handy apps:

• BusMap: Navigate Hanoi or HCMC’s public buses like a local

• Xanh SM: Reliable, electric taxi option (cheaper than Grab)

• MoMo or ZaloPay: Pay cashless and avoid ATM fees

• XE Currency: Stay on top of exchange rates and spending

---

💸 7. Vietnam Backpacking Tips to Stretch Your Dong

• Negotiate, but politely: It’s common thing to do at markets, but don’t push too hard.

• Refill water: Bring a bottle and refill at hostels or restaurants.

• Use ATMs with no fees: Try TPBank or ACB for lower charges.

• Don’t book tours you came across on the street: Use your hostel or research online first.

---

🏡 8. Stay in Hanoi? Quiri Hostel is Budget Backpacker Heaven

Looking for the perfect Hanoi base while you travel Vietnam on a budget?
Quiri Hostel offers:

✅ Comfy beds in a cozy dorm setting
✅ Free breakfast & a welcome beer (you earned it)
✅ Tour help for Ha Giang Loop, Sapa treks, Ninh Binh day trips
✅ Located right in the buzzing Old Quarter

📍 Address: 25 Hàng Lược, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi
🌐 Book now at Quiri Hostel

---

✌️ 9. Final Thoughts: Travel Smart, Live Big

You don’t need a big budget to have a big adventure in Vietnam. With a few smart choices and a flexible attitude, you can see the country’s best sides without burning through your wallet. What you expect is budget options, is actually living like the locals do!

Now pack your bag, charge your phone, and let the street food guide you.