Travelling Tips

06.04.23

What you need to know before traveling to Vietnam

Huyen Nguyen

Vietnam is a beautiful and diverse country, filled with natural wonders, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. Before traveling to Vietnam, it's important to be prepared and informed about the country's culture, customs, and practicalities. In this blog post, we'll cover some essential things you must know before traveling to Vietnam.

1. Currency exchange in Vietnam

The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). While some places may accept US dollars or Euros, it's always a good idea to exchange your currency for VND upon arrival. Here are some of the best places to exchange money in Vietnam.

Banks

Banks are a reliable and secure option for exchanging money in Vietnam. Most banks offer competitive exchange rates and charge minimal fees. The most popular banks for exchanging money in Vietnam are Vietcombank, Vietinbank, and BIDV. Banks are typically open from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm on weekdays and closed on weekends.

Exchange booths

Exchange booths are another option for exchanging money in Vietnam. These are small shops that specialize in exchanging foreign currency for VND. Exchange booths can be found throughout the country, particularly in tourist areas and international airports. Be aware that exchange rates at these booths may not be as competitive as those offered by banks. Additionally, some exchange booths may charge higher fees, so be sure to ask about fees before exchanging your money.

ATMs

ATM is a convenient and accessible option for exchanging money in Vietnam. ATMs are widely available throughout the country, particularly in cities and tourist areas. Most ATMs accept international debit and credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard. Be aware that some ATMs may charge fees for withdrawals, and your home bank may also charge fees for international transactions. Additionally, be sure to inform your bank that you'll be traveling to Vietnam to avoid any issues with your card.

2. Buying a SIM card in Vietnam

If you plan on using your phone while in Vietnam, it's a good idea to buy a local SIM card. This will allow you to make local calls, send texts, and access the internet at a much lower cost than if you were to use your home provider. Here are some reliable places to buy a SIM card in Vietnam:

Mobile network provider stores

Vietnam has three major mobile network providers: Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone. You can find their stores in most cities, and they offer various prepaid and postpaid plans. Buying a SIM card from the provider's store ensures that you're getting an official card with no hidden charges.

Convenience stores

Many convenience stores like Circle K, Family Mart, and 7-Eleven sell SIM cards. However, it's important to check that the card is from a reputable provider and not a knock-off card. Convenience store staff may also be able to assist with setting up the card.

Airports

SIM cards are available for purchase at most major airports in Vietnam, including Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City and Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi. However, be aware that airport prices may be higher than other options.

Mobile network provider stores at the airport in Vietnam

When buying a SIM card, be sure to bring your passport as you'll need to register the card with your personal information. Prices vary depending on the provider and the package you choose, but a typical cost is around 100,000 VND ($4.50 USD) for a 30-day package with unlimited data.

3. Electrical adapters

Vietnam uses three types of electrical outlets, Type A, C and F. Type A is the plug which has two flat parallel pins, type C is the plug with two round pins and plug type F has two round pins with two earth clips on the side. Vietnam operates on a 220V supply voltage and 50Hz.

If you cannot find them at your place or forget to bring, you can purchase electrical adapters at airports, electronic stores like Nguyen Kim and FPT Shop, or supermarkets in Vietnam. Online retailers like Lazada, Shopee and Tiki also offer electric adapters for purchase online and will deliver the adapter to your hotel or a convenient location. Adapters typically cost around 50,000 VND ($2.25 USD) and can be used for both Type A and Type C outlets.

In addition, Tubudd's Local Buddies can assist travelers in finding reputable places to exchange money, purchase a local SIM card, and buy an electric adapter. They can also provide valuable advice on how to avoid scams and get the best deals. Our Local Buddies also offer personalized experiences that can help travelers make the most of their time in Vietnam. With the help of a Local Buddy, travelers can experience Vietnam like a local, and gain a deeper understanding of the country's culture and history.