Planning a trip to Vietnam? One of the first things you'll need to get a handle on is the local currency, the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Don't worry, this guide will equip you with all the essential facts to navigate transactions with confidence!
What is the Dong?
The Vietnamese Dong has been the official currency of Vietnam since 1978. It's named after "đồng," the Vietnamese word for copper, as early Vietnamese coins were made from this metal.
Symbols and Denominations:
You'll see the Dong represented by two different symbols: â‚« (used locally) and VND (used internationally).
Be prepared for plenty of zeros! Dong denominations range from 200 VND to 500,000 VND. Pro tip: mentally remove three zeros for a quick estimation in USD (e.g., 10,000 VND is roughly 43 USD).
Interesting Trivia:
Vietnam currently doesn't use coins. While coins were previously issued, they were phased out due to low value and production costs.
The Dong comes in a mix of paper and polymer banknotes. Polymer notes are used for higher denominations (50,000 VND and above) due to their durability and anti-counterfeiting features.
Be cautious when dealing with similar-looking bills. The 20,000 VND and 500,000 VND notes are both blue, so double-check the denomination before handing it over.
Exchanging and Spending:
Exchanging currency: You can exchange your home currency for Dong before your trip or at airports, banks, and licensed exchange booths in Vietnam. Be sure to compare rates and fees to get the best deal.
Card payments: While cash is still widely used, Vietnam is increasingly embracing cashless transactions. Major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in many tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. ATMs are also readily available in cities and tourist areas.
Bonus Tip:
Carry a mix of smaller and larger notes to ensure you have the right change for various purchases.
Remember: With a little preparation and awareness, you'll be a pro at navigating the Vietnamese Dong! Now, go forth and experience the vibrant sights and sounds of Vietnam, one delicious Phở at a time (and remember, don't forget the conversion!). Need helping budgeting your trip, click here
