What currency is best to take to Vietnam?

The preferred currency for import and exchange in Vietnam is the US dollar. The exchange rate for euros may be slightly less favorable, although there will be no problems exchanging them; they are accepted everywhere. Chinese yuan can be exchanged at a relatively acceptable rate for small amounts, but yuan are not yet very common here, so you may have to search for an exchange office or bank.

But it is important to know the following! The exchange rate of any foreign currency in Vietnam depends on the denomination of the banknote, its year of issue, and condition. For banknotes of 50 dollars or less, old issue years, with folds, marks, tears, the rate may be much lower, and in some places they may refuse to accept them altogether.

Yes, and again yes! This is not just a formality — the difference in exchange rate can be significant. Here is a real example from one exchange office:

• New 100-dollar bills - 25,500 dong.
• Old-style 100-dollar bills or new ones with signs of use, 50-dollar bills - 25,200 dong (-1.18%).
• 5, 10, and 20-dollar bills - 25,000 (-1.96%).
• 1 and 2-dollar bills - 22,000 (-13.73%).

Therefore, when buying currency at home, refuse crumpled, torn, or old banknotes without a security strip.

Based on many years of experience traveling to Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries, we have developed and use the following scheme:

1. Main amount — cash US dollars in 100$ new-style bills in perfect condition
2. For initial expenses — exchange 50-100$ at the airport upon arrival (the rate is acceptable there)
3. Payment in stores — if possible, pay in stores with a foreign bank card or Russian UnionPay
4. Reserve — a bank card for emergency withdrawals
5. Small expenses — always have small dong bills (10,000-50,000) for taxis, market purchases, tips

We exchange the bulk of money at jewelry stores — they offer the best rates. In Hanoi, this is the area of Hang Bac and Ha Trung streets; in Ho Chi Minh City, the Pham Ngu Lao area; in Nha Trang, near Cho Dam market.

Summing up, we recommend:

• Main currency — US dollars in new 100$ bills
• Additional — a bank card as a reserve
• Avoid — direct exchange of rubles (losses of 6-7%)
• Exchange — at jewelry stores, not at banks or hotels
• Check — the condition of banknotes when receiving them at the exchange office

Remember that the situation may change, so before each trip it is worth checking current rates and conditions. Have good travels and favorable exchanges!

How much does a visa to Vietnam cost?
Where to go in Vietnam for the first time?
Where is best to buy tours to Vietnam?
Follow the link, all these questions are discussed in the chat - https://t.me/vietnam_travel_chat