Money
The currency is the dong, VND. Cards work in cities. Cash still pays for markets, countryside meals, and many tickets. The number of zeros is the thing that causes mistakes.
Verified 19 Oct 2026.
Cash and cards
ATMs are common in cities and tourist towns. Tell your bank you are traveling. Withdraw larger amounts less often, and check the fee screen before you confirm.
A 50,000 note and a 500,000 note are easy to confuse when you are tired. Count the zeros before you hand a note over, and count the change.
How people pay
Hotels, malls, and many restaurants in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City take cards. Street stalls, markets, homestays, and boat tickets often want cash. USD is sometimes quoted at hotels; you can almost always pay in dong.
Questions
- Should you bring dollars?
- A small backup is useful. Do not plan to pay daily expenses in USD.