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Travelling in Vietnam: A Budget Travel Guide for English Teachers
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One of the biggest advantages of living and teaching English in Vietnam is the opportunity to explore one of Southeast Asia’s most diverse and affordable travel destinations. From beautiful beaches and mountain towns to busy cities and hidden local gems, Vietnam offers something for every type of traveller.
For English teachers in Vietnam, travelling around the country is surprisingly affordable, even if you are earning a teacher’s salary. While a quick search online may show expensive hotels and luxury experiences, the reality is that Vietnam can be enjoyed on a budget with careful planning.
Whether you are planning a weekend trip, a long holiday or simply want to explore more of your new home, this Vietnam travel guide will help you understand how much you can expect to spend and how to make the most of your money.
How much does it cost to travel in Vietnam?
For a budget-friendly, mid-range trip, these are the average costs you can expect:
Accommodation:
800,000VND–1,500,000VND (£22.50–£42.50, $30–$60) per night for comfortable mid-range hotels or boutique guesthouses.
Food:
185,000VND–525,000VND (£5.20–£14.50, $7–$20) per day for a mix of local street food, cafés and higher-end restaurants.
Public transport:
55,000VND–210,000VND (£1.55–£5.90, $2–$8) per day for buses, local transport and short Grab journeys.
Activities:
130,000VND–525,000VND (£3.50–£14.75, $5–$20) per day depending on the experiences you choose.
Tips for travelling around Vietnam
Vietnam is a long country with excellent transport links, making it easy to explore different regions during your time teaching abroad. Many popular destinations have multiple flights each day, and domestic travel is often much cheaper than expected.
Although famous tourist destinations such as Ha Long Bay, Da Nang and Hoi An are popular for a reason, travelling off the beaten path can often provide a more authentic and affordable experience. Ask your Vietnamese friends or colleagues for recommendations, as local suggestions can lead you to quieter destinations with cheaper food, accommodation and activities.
Flying is not the only option when travelling around Vietnam. Sleeper buses are a popular choice among teachers and backpackers because they allow you to travel overnight, saving money on accommodation while reaching your next destination.
When planning your trips, try to avoid travelling during major Vietnamese holidays, especially Tet (Lunar New Year). During these periods, transport becomes busier and accommodation prices can increase significantly due to higher demand.
Final thoughts
Travelling in Vietnam is one of the best parts of living and teaching in the country. With affordable transport, delicious food and countless places to explore, you can experience incredible adventures without spending a fortune.
With a little planning and a willingness to explore beyond the typical tourist destinations, travelling around Vietnam on a teacher’s salary is not only possible but one of the most rewarding parts of teaching abroad.