Is $25 really enough for everything?

Yes, provided you don't take domestic flights, avoid expensive tours like Halong Bay cruises, and stay in dormitories.

How do I handle money?

Withdraw larger amounts from ATMs to minimize transaction fees. Use an ATM associated with a major bank like Vietcombank or TPBank.

Vietnam for $25 a Day: The Practical Guide

To survive on $25 a day in Vietnam, stick to dorm beds in hostels, eat exclusively at street-side plastic table stalls, and travel between cities using local sleeper buses. Avoid alcohol and guided tours, opting instead for walking or renting a bicycle to explore your surroundings.

Secure budget lodging. Book hostel dorm beds in advance via apps. In cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you can find clean, social dorms for $6–$8 per night, which usually includes breakfast.
Master the street food diet. Follow the locals. If a stall has small plastic stools and only serves one or two dishes, it’s cheap and authentic. A bowl of Pho or a Banh Mi will cost between $1.20 and $2.00.
Use sleeper buses for transport. For long hauls like Hanoi to Da Nang, use overnight sleeper buses. They cost roughly $12–$15 and save you the cost of a night's accommodation.
Drink smart. Beer is cheap, but it adds up. Stick to Bia Hoi (fresh draft beer) which costs about $0.30–$0.50 per glass. If you're on a strict $25 budget, skip the bars entirely.
Rent a bicycle. Forget taxis or Grab cars. Rent a bicycle for $1–$2 per day. It’s the best way to see the countryside and navigate dense city centers without paying commission-heavy transport fees.

Is $25 really enough for everything?: Yes, provided you don't take domestic flights, avoid expensive tours like Halong Bay cruises, and stay in dormitories.
How do I handle money?: Withdraw larger amounts from ATMs to minimize transaction fees. Use an ATM associated with a major bank like Vietcombank or TPBank.