Vietnam and the Philippines are two of the most affordable destinations in Southeast Asia, but they offer very different travel experiences. Vietnam is famous for cheap food, motorbike adventures and historic cities, while the Philippines is known for paradise islands and crystal-clear beaches.
The Bottom Line: In 2026, Vietnam remains roughly 30% cheaper than the Philippines due to lower food costs and more affordable land-based transportation.
These estimates reflect 2026 travel prices, including inflation trends and updated tourism costs across Southeast Asia.
Vietnam vs Philippines travel costs at a glance (2026)
| Cost Category | Vietnam Typical Price | Philippines Typical Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hostel dorm | $5–10 / night | $7–15 / night | Islands push PH prices higher |
| Budget hotel | $20–35 / night | $25–45 / night | Similar comfort level |
| Mid-range hotel | $35–70 / night | $45–90 / night | Philippines slightly pricier |
| Boutique hotel | $70–150 / night | $90–180 / night | Resort islands increase prices |
| Local meal | $1–2 | $2–4 | Vietnam wins easily |
| Western meal | $5–9 | $6–12 | Philippines slightly higher |
| Local transport | $3–7 / day | $6–12 / day | Island hopping adds cost |
| Popular activities | $10–30 | $20–45 | Tours pricier in Philippines |
Vietnam is typically 25–35% cheaper overall.
For a full regional overview, read how much a trip to Southeast Asia costs:
For country breakdowns see:
Is Vietnam expensive to visit?
Is the Philippines expensive to visit?
Average daily budget in Vietnam vs Philippines
| Travel Style | Vietnam Daily Budget | Philippines Daily Budget |
|---|---|---|
| Budget traveler | $25–40 | $35–55 |
| Mid-range traveler | $40–70 | $55–95 |
| Luxury traveler | $90–180 | $130–250 |
The Philippines becomes more expensive due to island flights and tours.
The daily essentials comparison
| Item | Vietnam (2026) | Philippines (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh coconut | $0.80 | $1.50 |
| Local beer | $1.20 | $2.20 |
| Rent-a-scooter | $4–7 / day | $6–10 / day |
| Unlimited SIM | $6–10 | $10–15 |
| Iced coffee | $1–2 | $2–3 |
Vietnam wins for everyday spending.
Cost of flights to Vietnam vs Philippines
Vietnam usually has cheaper international flights thanks to major hubs like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Average return flights from Europe or North America in 2026:
Vietnam: $650–1,000
Philippines: $750–1,200
The Philippines often requires longer travel routes and additional domestic flights.
Why the Philippines transport budget is higher
Geography is the biggest difference.
A typical 2-week Vietnam itinerary usually involves 1–2 domestic flights or long train journeys.
A typical 2-week Philippines itinerary often requires 3–4 domestic flights or ferries.
This single factor can add $150–300 to a trip.
The Grab factor (huge budget difference)
Vietnam has one of the cheapest ride-hailing systems in the world.
Grab and GrabBike rides often cost $1–3 for short trips.
In the Philippines, tricycles and taxis are more expensive and less standardized. Similar journeys often cost $3–8.
Over a two-week trip, this daily transport difference adds up quickly.
Food prices comparison
Vietnam is one of the cheapest food destinations on Earth.
Street meals in Vietnam cost $1–2.
In the Philippines, local meals cost $2–4.
Vietnam also offers incredible free food culture experiences — night markets, street stalls and walking neighborhoods like Hanoi Old Quarter and Hoi An.
In the Philippines, many of the “best” experiences (hidden lagoons, island hopping, snorkeling trips) require paid boat tours starting around $25–40.
In both countries, avoid tourist traps by checking our Southeast Asia scam guide.
When you go matters (seasonal costs)
Timing can dramatically change your budget.
In the Philippines, prices for boats and accommodation can double during Holy Week/Easter, the biggest travel holiday.
In Vietnam, Tet (Lunar New Year) can shut down cheap transport and increase prices temporarily.
Outside major holidays, Vietnam’s prices are generally more stable.
Where your money goes furthest
Vietnam best value regions:
Da Nang and Hoi An offer beaches and low prices.
Philippines best value regions:
Cebu and Siquijor are cheaper than Palawan and Boracay.
Choosing the right destinations makes a huge difference.
Two-week trip budget comparison
Budget travel
Vietnam: $400–650
Philippines: $550–900
Mid-range travel
Vietnam: $750–1,100
Philippines: $950–1,500
Comfort travel
Vietnam: $1,500–2,400
Philippines: $1,900–3,200
Vietnam typically saves travelers $300–600 per trip.
Accommodation value for long stays
If you plan to stay longer than two weeks, accommodation pricing becomes even more important.
In Vietnam, monthly apartment rentals in Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City typically range from $250–600. Many include Wi-Fi, air conditioning and weekly cleaning.
In the Philippines, monthly rentals in Cebu or Manila usually range from $350–800 for similar apartments. On popular islands like Palawan or Boracay, long-term rentals can be even higher due to limited supply.
For digital nomads or slow travelers, Vietnam offers noticeably better value for long stays.
Internet and digital nomad costs
Both countries are popular with remote workers, but Vietnam has a clear advantage.
Unlimited SIM cards in Vietnam usually cost $6–10 per month. In the Philippines, unlimited plans typically cost $10–15.
Coworking spaces in Vietnam cost around $80–120 per month. In the Philippines, coworking memberships usually range from $120–180.
Reliable internet is widely available in Vietnam’s major cities, while connectivity on smaller Philippine islands can sometimes be slower and less consistent.
Free vs paid experiences
Budget travelers often underestimate how much free activities matter.
Vietnam offers many free experiences such as walking historic neighborhoods, visiting temples, exploring markets and enjoying street food districts. Cities like Hanoi and Hoi An are perfect for low-cost wandering.
In the Philippines, many of the most famous experiences require paid tours. Hidden lagoons, island hopping trips and snorkeling excursions typically cost $25–50 per day.
This difference significantly impacts daily budgets.
Safety and tourist pricing
Both countries are generally safe for travelers, but tourist pricing can occur.
In Vietnam, prices are usually fixed in restaurants and shops in major tourist areas.
In the Philippines, transport and tours are often negotiated, which can lead to higher costs for first-time visitors.
Checking our Southeast Asia scam guide before your trip can help you avoid common tourist traps and keep your travel budget under control.
Final verdict: Vietnam or Philippines in 2026?
Vietnam is cheaper overall, especially for food, transport and daily expenses.
The Philippines is more expensive due to island hopping and tours, but offers world-class beaches and diving.
If your goal is budget travel, Vietnam wins.
If your dream trip is tropical islands and diving, the Philippines may justify the higher cost.
FAQ
Is Vietnam cheaper than the Philippines?
Yes. Vietnam is usually 25–35% cheaper overall.
Why is the Philippines more expensive?
Island hopping requires more flights and paid tours.
How much money do you need per day in Vietnam?
Budget travelers spend $25–40 per day.
How much money do you need per day in the Philippines?
Budget travelers spend $35–55 per day.
Which country is better for beaches?
The Philippines is famous for world-class beaches and diving.
