Vietnam is a backpacker’s dream destination. Known for its affordable prices, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural experiences, it’s the ideal place for budget travelers seeking adventure without breaking the bank. From affordable street food to budget-friendly accommodation, this guide will show you how to explore Vietnam on a budget and make the most of your trip.
1. Planning Your Budget-Friendly Vietnam Itinerary
Overview: The length of your stay and where you go will greatly affect your budget. A two-week itinerary is perfect for exploring Vietnam from north to south (or vice versa) and visiting popular destinations like Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City.
Suggested Itinerary:
- Hanoi: 2–3 days exploring the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and cultural sites.
- Halong Bay: 1–2 days on a budget cruise or day trip.
- Phong Nha: 2–3 days visiting caves and the national park.
- Hue and Hoi An: 2–4 days exploring the imperial city of Hue and the ancient town of Hoi An.
- Da Nang: 1–2 days to enjoy the beach and Marble Mountains.
- Ho Chi Minh City: 2–3 days visiting markets, museums, and historical sites.
- Mekong Delta: 1–2 days exploring the floating markets and rural villages.
2. Budget Accommodation: Where to Stay on the Cheap
Overview: Vietnam has a wide range of budget accommodation options. From hostels to guesthouses, you’ll find affordable stays in all major cities and towns. Most backpackers choose hostels for the social atmosphere and low prices.
Top Tips for Budget Accommodation:
- Hostels: Expect to pay around $5–$10 per night in popular destinations. Check out hostels with good reviews for safety, cleanliness, and social vibes.
- Guesthouses: Small, family-owned guesthouses are often clean, comfortable, and offer private rooms for as low as $10–$20 per night.
- Booking Apps: Use apps like Hostelworld, Booking.com, or Agoda to find the best deals and read reviews.
- Homestays: In rural areas like Sapa and the Mekong Delta, opt for a homestay to experience Vietnamese culture firsthand. Homestays are typically affordable and include meals.
3. Getting Around Vietnam on a Budget
Overview: Vietnam has an efficient and affordable transportation network, making it easy to travel between cities and towns on a budget. Here’s how to get around without spending a lot.
Budget-Friendly Transportation Options:
- Buses: Local and sleeper buses are the cheapest way to travel long distances. Sleeper buses are popular among backpackers for overnight travel, costing around $10–$20 for longer routes.
- Trains: Trains are slightly more expensive but offer a scenic way to see Vietnam. Choose a hard or soft seat for daytime travel, or book a sleeper cabin for overnight journeys.
- Motorbikes: Renting a motorbike is a budget-friendly option for shorter trips and gives you freedom to explore. Rentals start at around $5 per day.
- Grab: Grab (similar to Uber) is widely available in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, offering affordable rides for short distances.
- Flights: If you’re short on time, budget airlines like VietJet and Bamboo Airways offer affordable domestic flights.
4. Eating Like a Local: Budget-Friendly Vietnamese Cuisine
Overview: Vietnam is famous for its street food, which is both delicious and affordable. By eating at local stalls and markets, you can easily enjoy tasty meals without going over budget.
Top Budget-Friendly Vietnamese Dishes to Try:
- Pho: Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup with beef or chicken, often found for as low as $1–$2 per bowl.
- Banh Mi: A Vietnamese sandwich with a mix of meat, veggies, and sauces in a baguette, costing around $0.50–$1.
- Bun Cha: Grilled pork with vermicelli noodles, a Hanoi specialty that costs around $2–$3.
- Com Tam: “Broken rice” served with grilled meat, fried egg, and vegetables, commonly priced at $1–$2.
- Street Snacks: Try goi cuon (spring rolls), nem ran (fried rolls), and che (sweet dessert soup), all of which can be found for under $1.
Tip: Eat where the locals eat. Not only will you get the best flavors, but you’ll also find the best prices.
5. Top Free and Affordable Experiences in Vietnam
You don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy Vietnam’s rich culture and beautiful landscapes. Many of the country’s best experiences are free or very low-cost.
Affordable Experiences:
- Exploring the Old Quarter in Hanoi: Wander through narrow streets, take in the lively atmosphere, and admire colonial architecture.
- Walking Tour of Hoi An Ancient Town: Hoi An’s beautiful old streets and lantern-lit evenings are best explored on foot. While entry tickets are required for some attractions, many areas are free to explore.
- Trekking in Sapa: Go on a guided trek through rice terraces and ethnic minority villages. If you’re on a tight budget, self-guided treks are also possible.
- Beaches in Da Nang and Nha Trang: Relax at the beautiful My Khe Beach in Da Nang or the white sand beaches of Nha Trang.
- Markets and Temples: Many of Vietnam’s local markets and Buddhist temples are free to enter and give you a glimpse of Vietnamese daily life and spirituality.
6. Money-Saving Tips for Backpacking in Vietnam
Overview: Even in an affordable country like Vietnam, there are ways to stretch your budget further. Here are some tips to save more while enjoying everything Vietnam has to offer.
Money-Saving Tips:
- Haggle Wisely: Bargaining is common in markets and with street vendors, but remember to be respectful and know when to accept a fair price.
- Stay Hydrated with Tap-Compatible Water Bottles: Tap water isn’t safe to drink, so bring a refillable bottle with a filter to save on buying bottled water.
- Avoid High Tourist Seasons: Traveling in the shoulder seasons (March–April, September–November) helps you avoid crowds and save on accommodation and flights.
- Use Local Buses: In cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, local buses are an ultra-budget option for getting around.
- Go in a Group: Many activities, such as boat tours and guided treks, are cheaper when you book with a group. Join other travelers for discounted rates.
Conclusion
Backpacking through Vietnam is an unforgettable experience that won’t strain your wallet. With its affordable prices, incredible food, and breathtaking landscapes, Vietnam is one of Southeast Asia’s top destinations for budget travelers. By following this guide, you can make the most of your adventure, create lasting memories, and stay on budget along the way.
