In this blog post, we'll take an in-depth look at the costs of traveling in Vietnam compared to Thailand – from accommodation prices to food & drink prices, tourist attractions prices, entertainment expenses and shopping & souvenir prices. We'll also discuss exchange rates' impact on price comparisons and budgeting tips for travelers going to either country so you can make an informed decision when booking your vacation!
Accommodation Costs
Vietnam
Accommodation in Vietnam is generally much cheaper than its Thai counterpart. Depending on your preferences, you can find a bed in a hostel for as low as $5 per night, and mid-range hotels start from around $20 per night. AirBnb's are also widely available throughout the country and offer great value for money.
Vietnam intercontinental hotel
Regarding luxury accommodations, you can find five-star resorts and hotels ranging from $50 to $200 per night, depending on the location.
Suppose you're looking for something different. In that case, homestays are an excellent way to get a taste of local life while offering great value for money. Prices range from around $10 - $30 per night, although they may be higher in some tourist hot spots.
Finally, camping is an excellent choice if you're looking for the ultimate budget accommodation option. Campsite fees range from around $2 - $7 per night, and plenty of great campsites are scattered across the country.
Thailand
Accommodation prices in Thailand are slightly higher than in Vietnam but still incredibly affordable by Western standards. You can find a bed in a hostel for around $8 per night, and mid-range hotels start from as little as $25 per night.
AirBnb's is also widely available and offers various accommodation options, from private rooms to entire apartments. Prices depend on the location, but you can expect to pay between $20 - $50 per night.
Ruean Thai hotel
If you're looking for some luxury, five-star hotels start at around $80 per night, depending on the area.
Finally, if you're a fan of camping, there are some great campsites throughout the country with fees ranging from around $4 - $10 per night.
So is Vietnam cheaper than Thailand in accommodation costs? Yes – Vietnam is usually cheaper than Thailand. However, this can vary depending on where you plan to stay and the type of accommodation you're looking for.
Transportation Costs
Vietnam
Public transport in Vietnam is incredibly affordable and one of the best ways to get around the country. If you're traveling long distances, bus tickets can cost as little as $2 for a 4-hour journey between cities and towns.
Vietnam train
Alternatively, you can take an overnight sleeper train for around $4, although these are usually more expensive during peak season.
Local transportation is also incredibly cheap and a great way to get around. Taxis are available throughout the country and cost as little as $2 for short trips within cities or towns. Motorbike taxis are even cheaper at just $1 per ride!
Finally, if you'd prefer to rent your transport, you can do so easily in most cities. Motorbikes are available from as little as $5 per day, and cars start from around $25 per day, depending on your vehicle type.
Thailand
Transportation in Thailand is also incredibly affordable, although slightly more expensive than in Vietnam.
For a 4-hour journey between cities and towns, long-distance buses can cost just $3.
Another option is taking the overnight sleeper train for approximately $7 during peak season.
Thai tuk tuk
You can easily find local transportation in cities or towns, with tuk-tuks, motorbike taxis, and traditional taxis available for short trips for around $2 - $3.
Alternatively, you can rent your own vehicle, with motorbikes at approximately $7 per day and cars at about $30 per day, depending on your vehicle type.
So is Vietnam cheaper than Thailand in transportation costs? Yes – Vietnam is usually cheaper than Thailand regarding transportation costs.
Food & Drink Prices
Vietnam
Eating out in Vietnam is incredibly affordable and one of the best value meals you can find anywhere in Southeast Asia!
Street food stalls offer a wide variety of dishes for as little as $1 per plate. In comparison, restaurants usually range from around $2 - $5 per meal.
Vietnamese food
For drinks, local beers cost around $1 - 2, while imported bottles cost around $2 - 3. Soft drinks range from around $0.50 - 1, and coffee can cost as little as $1, depending on the type of drink you choose.
If you're looking to stock up your own kitchen, grocery stores offer a wide range of items at very affordable prices. A basic basket of groceries should cost around $20; some markets even offer discounts for bulk purchases!
Thailand
Food and drink prices in Thailand are slightly higher than in Vietnam, but still incredibly good value for money by Western standards.
You can find a delicious meal at a local restaurant for as little as $2 per dish or sample some street food for around $1 per portion.
Thai food
Suppose you're looking for something more upmarket. In that case, plenty of mid-range restaurants offer Thai and international cuisine from around $4 - $7 per dish.
Drinks are also incredibly cheap, with local beers costing as little as $1 and cocktails from around $3 at most bars or clubs. Coffee is also widely available throughout the country, starting from around $2 per cup.
Finally, you'd prefer to cook your own meals. In that case, supermarkets are widely available throughout the country, with prices depending on the area and type of product you buy.
So is Vietnam cheaper than Thailand in food and drink prices? The answer is yes; Vietnam is generally cheaper than Thailand regarding food and drink prices.
Entertainment Expenses
Vietnam
Entertainment in Vietnam is incredibly affordable, and there are plenty of great things to do at very low costs.
Visiting a local market or temple can often be done for free. At the same time, entrance fees to museums and monuments usually range from around $1 - 5 per person.
Vietnam nightlife
If you're looking for an evening out, you can find a decent meal with drinks for as little as $4. Spirits are also very cheap, with local brands costing around $2 - 3 per bottle.
Additionally, you can find a variety of live music venues ranging from traditional folk tunes to modern DJs for around $5.
Finally, if you're looking for a night in, there are plenty of affordable options, such as karaoke bars, cinemas and bowling alleys, with prices starting from just a few dollars.
Thailand
Thai nightlife
Entertainment expenses in Thailand are also very affordable, although slightly more expensive than in Vietnam. Cinema tickets cost around $4 - 5, and most bars will charge a cover fee of around $3 per person.
If you're looking for something more adventurous, guided tours range from as little as $15, depending on the activity and length of time. Water sports such as snorkeling and diving can also be expensive, ranging from around $50 - 80 per day, depending on the operator.
Finally, if you're looking to participate in cultural activities, tickets for traditional dance shows usually start at around $10 per person and entrance fees to temples range from around $2 - 5.
So is Vietnam cheaper than Thailand in entertainment prices? Yes – Vietnam is generally cheaper than Thailand regarding entertainment prices.
Shopping & Souvenir Prices
Vietnam
Shopping in Vietnam is incredibly affordable, and the country's markets offer various reasonably priced items. Clothing, electronics and souvenirs can all be found at great discounts, with most items costing around $5 or less.
Vietnam souvenirs
For those looking to pick up some traditional items, local crafts such as woodcarvings, pottery and bamboo products can be found for around $2 - 3. The country also offers a range of artisan foods such as coffee, spices and teas from around $1 - 5 per item.
Finally, if you're looking for something more luxurious, several high-end shopping malls can be found in the major cities, with items ranging from around $10 - 15 depending on the brand and quality.
Thailand
Thai souvenirs
Shopping and souvenir prices in Thailand are also very reasonable, especially compared to other countries.
Clothing items such as t-shirts, dresses and shorts can range from $5 - 10 depending on the quality and brand.
Local markets often offer better deals than shopping malls, with souvenirs ranging from around $1 - 5 for small items such as fridge magnets, key chains or postcards.
For luxury items such as jewelry, designer clothing and electronics, prices can be slightly higher than in Vietnam. However, you can still expect to pay 50 - 70% less than in Western countries!
If you're looking to buy larger items such as furniture or electrical goods, prices start from around $20 for basic items and can go up to hundreds of dollars depending on the brand and quality.
Finally, if you're looking for a unique experience, plenty of tailors in Thailand offer custom-made suits and dresses at very reasonable prices.
So is Vietnam cheaper than Thailand in shopping prices? Yes, Vietnam is generally cheaper than Thailand regarding shopping and souvenir prices.
Exchange Rates Impact on Price Comparisons
Thai Baht exchange
Considering the exchange rate when comparing prices between Vietnam and Thailand is important. The Vietnamese Dong (VND) has a significantly lower value than the Thai Baht (THB), with one VND equivalent to approximately 0.04 THB when writing this article.
This means that many items purchased in Vietnam may appear cheaper than similar items in Thailand when they are worth less due to the exchange rate.
Therefore, it is essential to understand how exchange rates affect price comparisons between the two countries. Here is a breakdown of how this works:
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The current exchange rate of 1 VND = 0.04 THB means that prices in Vietnam appear to be 25% cheaper than in Thailand.
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This exchange rate generally makes food, drinks and entertainment more affordable in Vietnam.
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When shopping for luxury items such as jewelry or designer clothes, prices can be slightly higher in Vietnam due to the exchange rate.
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Exchange rates can fluctuate over time, so it is important to keep track of this when comparing prices between Vietnam and Thailand.
Finally, it is essential to factor in the exchange rate when comparing prices between these two countries. This will help you make an informed decision on where to get the best value for your money!
Is Vietnam Cheaper than Thailand?
Vietnam or Thailand?
Overall, Vietnam is generally cheaper than Thailand when it comes to everyday expenses such as food, accommodation and entertainment. Exchange rates also play a major role in price comparisons between the two countries; factoring this into your decisions is important.
Whether you choose Vietnam or Thailand for your next holiday destination, research and explore all the options before deciding.
Both countries offer unique experiences and stunning scenery – but at different prices! So, take some time to consider both destinations carefully, and you'll be sure to find the perfect holiday for you.
Budgeting Tips for Travelers Going to Either Country
Visiting Halong bay in Vietnam
Whether traveling to Vietnam or Thailand, planning and budgeting your trip accordingly is essential. Here are some tips that will help you save money on your travels:
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Research different accommodation options, including hostels, guesthouses and Airbnb rentals. This will help you find the best deals for your budget.
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Look for discounted flights and tickets for activities. Many travel websites offer flight deals, so check several sites before booking your tickets.
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Take advantage of discounts available for students and seniors. In both countries, special deals are often available for travelers with student IDs or senior cards.
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Eat at local restaurants instead of tourist spots. Local restaurants usually offer the best value food and drinks.
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Plan your trip in advance so that you know what activities you want to do before you arrive at your destination. This will help you stay organized and stay within budget while on holiday.
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Shop around for souvenirs and gifts. Compare prices between different vendors to get the best deals.
Following these tips will ensure you get the most out of your trip while staying within your budget. Remember, some planning goes a long way in helping you save money!
Finally, it is important to remember that both countries offer unique experiences and stunning scenery – so take some time to compare them carefully before making your final decision.
Ready to set out on your next escapade? Stay tuned for our guide to conquering Vietnam.
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Our professional team will help you make the most of your journey while staying within budget. So, don't hesitate and book with us – we guarantee you won't be disappointed
