Is Thailand Cheaper Than Vietnam?

ByMichail

Vietnam emerges as a slightly more affordable option compared to Thailand, with a 4% lower cost of living. Accommodation prices vary, with Vietnam's mid-range options being higher but offering discounts. Food prices are similar, with Vietnam being slightly cheaper. Transportation costs differ, with Thailand offering more affordable domestic flights and bus fares. Activity and tour prices are generally higher in Vietnam. However, hidden fees and daily expenses can add up quickly in both countries. To get a clearer picture of the costs involved and make the most of your budget, it's essential to dig deeper into the specifics of each country's expenses.

Contents show

Accommodation Costs Compared

Generally speaking, with regard to accommodation costs, Vietnam tends to be slightly pricier than Thailand, particularly in regards to mid-range options. However, there are some exceptions. For instance, 3-star hotels in Hanoi and Chiang Mai offer comparable prices, with discounts available. In Vietnam, the scarcity of dorms drives up the cost of private rooms, making them more expensive. That being said, affordable options can still be found. In Hoi An, modern hotel rooms with amenities can be had for around $10, excluding breakfast. Moreover, in Hue, hotel rooms with modern amenities are available for $10-$15. While Vietnam may be pricier overall, there are still ways to find reasonably priced accommodation, especially for travelers willing to look around.

Food Prices in Both Countries

In the realm of food, both Thailand and Vietnam offer a range of options to suit different budgets and tastes. In this section, we'll examine the prices of street food, mid-range restaurant meals, and fine dining experiences in both countries, helping you plan your culinary adventures accordingly. From affordable street eats to upscale dining, we'll delve into the cost of savoring the local flavors in Thailand and Vietnam.

Street Food Prices

While exploring the culinary scenes of Thailand and Vietnam, one of the most important factors to bear in mind is the cost of a meal on the go, with street food prices varying substantially between the two countries.

  • In Thailand, street food prices are generally lower, with a meal costing around 100-200 THB ($3-6 USD) compared to 20,000-50,000 VND ($0.80-2.50 USD) in Vietnam.
  • Chiang Mai in Thailand offers affordable street food, with dishes like pad thai and green curry available for around 100-150 THB ($3-5 USD) per serving.
  • Vietnamese street food is characterized by its fresh ingredients and subtle flavors, with popular dishes like pho and banh mi costing around 20,000-50,000 VND ($0.80-2.50 USD) per serving.
  • Beer is significantly cheaper in Vietnam, making it a great accompaniment to a street food meal in either country.

Mid-Range Restaurant Meals

Moving up from street food, mid-range restaurant meals in Thailand and Vietnam offer a more extensive menu selection, with prices varying substantially between the two countries. In Vietnam, a mid-range restaurant meal costs around $5-$10 per person, while in Thailand, a similar meal costs around $8-$15 per person. Specifically, Vietnam is generally cheaper than Thailand regarding mid-range restaurant meals, with prices varying depending on location and tourist demand. In Hanoi, a good meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around $10-$15 per person, excluding drinks. In contrast, a meal at a mid-range restaurant in tourist areas of Thailand can cost around $15-$25 per person, excluding drinks. Overall, Vietnam offers more affordable mid-range restaurant meals, making it a more budget-friendly option for travelers in terms of dining expenses.

Fine Dining Experiences

Fine dining experiences in Vietnam and Thailand reveal a stark contrast in prices, with Vietnamese high-end restaurants offering upscale meals at a fraction of the cost of their Thai counterparts. While Vietnam's fine dining scene is relatively affordable, Thailand's luxury restaurants come with a hefty price tag.

  • Fine dining in Vietnam costs around $20-$30 per person, while in Thailand, it can cost upwards of $50-$100 per person.
  • Vietnamese high-end restaurants offer exceptional value for money, making fine dining an affordable luxury.
  • Thailand's high-end restaurants, on the other hand, are priced comparable to those in Western countries.
  • If you're looking for an affordable fine dining experience, Vietnam is the clear winner.

Transportation Costs and Options

Traveling through the transportation landscape in Thailand and Vietnam can be a cost-effective and convenient affair, with a range of options available to suit various budgets and preferences. Exploring the domestic flights, Thailand offers more affordable options, with prices starting from $20-$30 USD per flight, whereas Vietnam's domestic flights typically range from $50-$100 USD per flight. Thailand's well-developed bus network offers affordable fares, starting from $3-$10 USD for short distances, while Vietnam's bus network is less extensive, with prices starting from $5-$20 USD. In terms of, domestic transportation, tuk-tuks, taxis, and motorbike rentals are also widely available in Thailand, with average fares ranging from $5-$10 USD, making it an attractive option for travelers looking for affordable transportation options without compromising on convenience.

Activity and Tour Prices

Planning activities and tours, travelers to Thailand and Vietnam can expect to pay varying prices, with Vietnam generally commanding a premium for its experiences.

Regarding planning activities and tours, travelers to Thailand and Vietnam can expect to pay varying prices, with Vietnam generally commanding a premium for its experiences.

  • Tour prices: Vietnam ($50-$70 per person) vs Thailand ($30-$50 per person)
  • Adventure activities: Vietnam ($80-$150 per person) vs Thailand ($50-$100 per person)
  • Cooking classes: Vietnam ($30-$50 per person) vs Thailand ($20-$40 per person)
  • Guided treks: Vietnam ($80-$120 per person) vs Thailand ($50-$90 per person)

From rock climbing to kayaking, and from cooking classes to guided treks, Vietnam tends to be more expensive than Thailand. However, both countries offer a range of activities and tours that cater to different budgets and interests.

Daily Expenses and Budgets

In the context of daily expenses and budgets, Vietnam emerges as a slightly more affordable option compared to Thailand, with a 4% lower cost of living. This makes Vietnam an attractive option for budget travelers. Accommodation prices vary, but Vietnam has fewer cheap guesthouses and hostels than Thailand. However, 3-star hotels in Hanoi cost about the same as in Chiang Mai, with discounts available. Food prices are similar in both countries, with Vietnam being slightly cheaper. Remarkably, beer is extremely cheaper in Vietnam, with some considering it the cheapest in the world. With good hotel rooms available for $11-$15 in Hanoi and $10 in Hoi An, Vietnam offers an affordable option for travelers. Overall, Vietnam's lower cost of living makes it a more affordable choice for daily expenses and budgets.

Mid-Range and Luxury Options

As travelers' budgets increase, the focus shifts from affordable accommodations to mid-range and luxury options, where Vietnam and Thailand present distinct differences in pricing and amenities.

Here are some key differences:

  • Accommodation: Mid-range hotels in Thailand cost $40-$80 per night, while in Vietnam, they cost $30-$60 per night. Luxury hotels in Thailand can reach $200-$500 per night, whereas in Vietnam, they range from $150-$300 per night.
  • Food: Mid-range restaurants in Thailand serve meals for $10-$20 per person, while in Vietnam, they cost around $5-$15 per person. Luxury dining experiences in Thailand can cost upwards of $50-$100 per person, whereas in Vietnam, they range from $20-$50 per person.
  • Transportation: Mid-range options like taxis and ride-hailing services cost around $5-$10 per ride in both countries, while luxury options like private car services can cost upwards of $50-$100 per day.

Exchange Rates and Currency

Currency fluctuations can substantially impact travel budgets, making it essential for travelers to understand the exchange rates between the Thai baht and Vietnamese dong. As of now, the Vietnamese dong is generally cheaper than the Thai baht, with an exchange rate of approximately 1 USD to 23,000 VND compared to 1 USD to 30 THB. This means that Vietnam is often more affordable for foreign tourists. However, it's vital to note that exchange rates can fluctuate rapidly, and travelers should stay up-to-date with the latest rates to get the best value for their money. Overall, Vietnam tends to be less expensive due to its more favorable exchange rate, making it a more attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.

Hidden Costs and Savings

When traveling in Thailand and Vietnam, it's essential to bear in mind the hidden costs and savings that can substantially impact your budget. Daily expenses, such as food, transportation, and accommodation, can add up quickly, but understanding the local prices and opting for affordable options can help you save. By examining the hidden fees and daily expenses in both countries, we can uncover the most cost-effective options for travelers.

Hidden Fees

Thailand's and Vietnam's hidden fees and costs can add up quickly, but savvy travelers can save money by understanding the nuances of accommodation, food, and drink prices in each country.

When it comes to hidden fees, here are some key differences to consider:

  • In Vietnam, mid-range accommodation prices are higher, but discounts are available, making them more affordable.
  • Dorms are less plentiful in Vietnam, making private rooms more expensive, whereas in Thailand, dorms are a more affordable option.
  • Beer is significantly cheaper in Vietnam, while food prices are similar, with Vietnam being slightly cheaper.
  • In Hoi An, modern hotel rooms with amenities can be found for around $10, excluding breakfast, making it a more affordable option for travelers.

Daily Expenses

Daily expenses in Thailand and Vietnam can add up quickly, but understanding the hidden costs and potential savings in accommodation, food, and drink prices can help travelers make the most of their budget. Vietnam is cheaper with regard to cost of living, with accommodation prices varying between the two countries. While Thailand has more affordable guesthouses and hostels, Vietnam's 3-star hotels are competitively priced. Food prices are similar, with Vietnam being slightly more economical, and beer is remarkably cheaper in Vietnam. For budget travelers, finding affordable daily expenses is vital. In Vietnam, good hotel rooms with breakfast can be found for $11-$15, and excellent modern rooms for $10, excluding breakfast. By understanding these costs, travelers can make informed decisions and save money on food and accommodation.

Hey there, fellow adventurers! I'm Michail, the guy behind BackpackingGuys.com, and I'm just an ordinary explorer with an unwavering passion for the great outdoors.

My journey into the world of backpacking started with a simple eagerness to uncover the wonders of our planet. At BackpackingGuys.com, I weave my everyday experiences into the narrative. I

t's not about showcasing triumphs; it's about sharing relatable stories that connect with fellow wanderers who, like me, are navigating the exciting realm of outdoor adventures.

Similar Posts