Backpacking through Vietnam is a dream come true for budget travelers, and once you understand the currency, it gets even better. So let’s break it down: what can 20,000 dong buy in Vietnam? And how far will your money actually go?
Vietnamese Dong to USD: Understanding the Conversion
As of 2025, 20,000 VND (Vietnamese dong) is roughly equal to $0.80 to $0.85 USD, depending on the exchange rate. That means 1 U.S. dollar is worth about 23,000–25,000 dong. To make the math simple while you’re traveling, you can round up and think of 25,000 dong = $1 USD. This quick estimate will help you figure out costs on the go without needing a calculator every five minutes.
What Can 20,000 Dong Buy in Vietnam?
Here’s what you can usually get for 20,000 dong (~$0.80):
A fresh bánh mì sandwich from a local street vendor
A Vietnamese iced coffee (cà phê sữa đá) in small cafés
A small bowl of noodles or street pho (in less touristy areas)
Two bottles of water or a local soft drink
Grilled street skewers (2–3 sticks, depending on the type)
A portion of fresh-cut tropical fruit from a market stand
A short Grab or taxi ride within the city center
Admission to smaller local temples or attractions
It’s wild how much you can stretch a single U.S. dollar here compared to places like Thailand, Indonesia, or even Mexico. Vietnam consistently ranks as one of the most affordable travel destinations in the world.
How Much Does a Backpacker Need Per Day in Vietnam?
Here’s a rough daily budget for backpackers:
| Category | Cost (USD) | Cost (Dong) |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel Dorm Bed | $5–10 | 125,000–250,000 VND |
| Street Food Meals (x3) | $6–9 | 150,000–225,000 VND |
| Coffee + Snacks | $2–3 | 50,000–75,000 VND |
| Transport (Grab/Bike) | $2–4 | 50,000–100,000 VND |
| Attractions/Souvenirs | $2–5 | 50,000–125,000 VND |
| Total Daily Budget | $17–30 | 425,000–775,000 VND |
A tight-budget backpacker could realistically survive on $20 USD/day, while a more comfortable budget with the occasional treat would sit closer to $25–30 USD/day. Personally, I found that $30 USD/day was more realistic if you are looking for a budget experience, but still want to do a variety of activities during your trip.
Bonus Tip:
If you’re new to converting currencies in your head, just remember:
25,000 VND = $1 USD
So 100,000 dong = $4, 250,000 dong = $10, and so on. You’ll be a pro in no time!
Cost of Food in Vietnam
One of the best parts of traveling in Vietnam is the delicious street food scene. Here’s what meals cost:
Bánh mì sandwich: 15,000–25,000 VND (~$0.60–$1)
Pho or bún chả (hearty bowl of noodles): 30,000–60,000 VND (~$1.20–$2.50)
Vietnamese iced coffee: 15,000–25,000 VND (~$0.60–$1)
Western meals (in tourist spots): 80,000–150,000 VND (~$3.50–$6)
If you stick to local food stalls, you can easily spend under 100,000 VND/day (~$4) for three meals!
Accommodation Costs in Vietnam
Hostel dorm beds: 100,000–250,000 VND ($4–10)
Private room in a guesthouse: 250,000–500,000 VND ($10–20)
Budget hotel with A/C and WiFi: 300,000–600,000 VND ($12–25)
Even in more touristy cities like Hanoi, Hoi An, or Ho Chi Minh City, you can find solid options for under $10 if you book ahead or check sites like Booking.com or Agoda. I found that hostels are the cheapest way to go. I like booking everything on Expedia so that all my reservations are together and easy to find in one place!
How Far Does $1 Go in Vietnam?
To give you a clearer picture, here’s what $1 USD (~25,000 VND) can get you:
One full meal from a street food vendor
Two cups of traditional iced coffee
A 1-hour bike rental
Three metro/bus rides in major cities
One small souvenir or local snack
Compare that to Western countries where a cup of coffee alone can be $4–5—Vietnam is a budget traveler’s paradise!
Is Vietnam Cheaper than Other Countries in Southeast Asia?
Yes! Vietnam is generally cheaper than Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia, especially for food and transportation. It’s on par with Laos and Cambodia in terms of budget, but offers better infrastructure, more free or low-cost attractions, and exceptional street food value.
How Much Cash Should You Carry Daily in Vietnam?
While Vietnam is becoming more card-friendly, many places still prefer or only accept cash—especially street vendors and small hostels. For backpackers:
Bring 500,000–1,000,000 VND ($20–40) per day in cash
Store larger bills securely and use small notes for food & transport
ATMs are common in cities but may charge 30,000–50,000 VND (~$1–2) per withdrawal
Final Thoughts: Is 20,000 Dong Worth Anything in Vietnam?
Absolutely. In Vietnam, 20,000 dong can actually buy you something useful, like a local meal or drink. This is a country where even a few coins in USD can go a long way. So whether you’re a budget backpacker or just traveling mindfully, Vietnam offers exceptional value for your money.
