Backpacking Vietnam on a $25-a-Day Budget — My Route, Mistakes, and Money-Saving Tricks

When I first planned my trip to Vietnam, I wasn’t sure how far $25 a day would take me. Turns out, it took me across the entire country — from the misty mountains of Sapa to the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An and the buzzing chaos of Ho Chi Minh City.

This is how I did it, what I learned, and how you can travel Vietnam on a tight budget without missing out on the real experiences.

My Route: North to South in 3 Weeks

• Sapa — Stunning mountain views and homestays with local families.
• Hanoi — Street food heaven. Don’t miss the egg coffee!
• Phong Nha — Unreal caves, including the world’s largest (Son Doong).
• Hue — Imperial cities and peaceful river views.
• Hoi An — Cheap tailor-made clothes and magical nights.
• Da Lat — Pine forests, French villas, and fresh air.
• Ho Chi Minh City — Fast, loud, intense... but unforgettable.

I used 12Go Asia to book buses and trains, which helped me stay within budget and avoid scams.

Daily Costs Breakdown

• 💤 Hostels: $5–8 per night
• 🍜 Food: $1–2 meals (Banh Mi, Pho, and fresh juice everywhere)
• 🚍 Transport: $3–5 per city transfer
• 🎫 Attractions: Most temples and museums under $2

One night in Hoi An, I spent just $16 total — and that included a river boat ride and a full dinner!

What I Did Right — and Wrong

• Right: Traveled slow and used overnight buses (saved money on hostels).
• Wrong: Booked a Halong Bay tour from a random street vendor — got overcharged.

Next time, I’ll use verified platforms like Viator for day trips and compare prices before paying.

Top Budget Tips for Vietnam in 2025

1. Buy a local SIM card — cheap internet and Google Maps are life-saving.
2. Eat where locals eat. The smaller the plastic stool, the better the meal.
3. Use apps like Grab instead of taxis. They’re cheaper and safer.
4. Always ask for prices before ordering or accepting services.

Final Thought

Vietnam isn’t just budget-friendly — it’s rich in culture, flavor, and kindness. With $25 a day, I didn’t feel limited. I felt free.

If you're dreaming of Southeast Asia but worried about cost — start here.

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