Vietnam and Laos among Southeast Asia’s best-value destinations

According to Time Out’s latest ranking of affordable travel destinations on July 24, Vietnam secured second place, with average daily expenses estimated at just $20.80.

The magazine praised Vietnam for offering some of the cheapest beer in the world, with local bia hoi costing between $0.20 and $0.50 per glass, and filling street food meals, such as banh mi, priced at less than $1.00.

Accommodation was also highlighted for its affordability and quality, with highly rated hostels and guesthouses (scoring 8.0+ on Booking.com) available from just $3.20 per night.

Beyond basic costs, Time Out noted Vietnam’s cultural richness and accessibility, such as traditional water puppet shows for $4.00, along with free access to many temples and museums.

Local transport was described as both affordable and convenient, with public buses priced under $0.50, and app-based motorbike rides like Grab bike typically under $1.20. Longer-distance travel remains budget-friendly, with train tickets from Hanoi to Hue costing just over $28.

Laos topped the list as the most affordable country in the region, with average daily expenses at just $16.80. Budget accommodations in Luang Prabang and Vientiane are available from $4.40, and even lower in Vang Vieng, starting at just $2.00. Popular street foods such as sticky rice and grilled pork skewers can be enjoyed for $0.80 or less, while local beers are priced under $1.00.