Thailand and Vietnam are two of the most popular destinations in Southeast Asia, and both are known for being affordable. But travelers planning a trip in 2026 want one clear answer before booking flights: which country is actually cheaper right now?
The short answer is simple. Vietnam is usually cheaper overall, while Thailand is slightly easier and more comfortable to travel.
This guide compares real travel costs for 2026 using updated price ranges, recent inflation trends and current tourism fees so you can confidently choose the destination that fits your budget.
2026 cost note: These estimates reflect current exchange rates, post-pandemic tourism recovery pricing and new travel fees such as Thailand’s 300 THB entry fee.
Thailand vs Vietnam travel costs at a glance (2026)
| Cost Category | Thailand Typical Price | Vietnam Typical Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hostel dorm | $8–15 / night | $5–10 / night | Vietnam cheaper for backpackers |
| Budget hotel | $30–50 / night | $20–35 / night | Thailand better infrastructure |
| Mid-range hotel | $50–90 / night | $35–70 / night | Both offer great value |
| Boutique hotel | $100–220 / night | $70–150 / night | Thailand more luxury resorts |
| Local meal | $2–3 | $1–2 | Street food cheaper in Vietnam |
| Western meal | $6–10 | $5–9 | Similar pricing |
| Local transport | $5–10 / day | $3–7 / day | Vietnam slightly cheaper |
| Popular activities | $15–40 | $10–30 | Tours cheaper in Vietnam |
Vietnam is typically 20–30% cheaper overall, especially for accommodation, daily meals and tours.
If you’re planning a longer regional trip, read our full breakdown of how much a trip to Southeast Asia costs.
For deeper country guides, see
Is Thailand expensive to visit?
Is Vietnam expensive to visit?
Average daily budget in Thailand vs Vietnam
| Travel Style | Thailand Daily Budget | Vietnam Daily Budget | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget traveler | $35–50 | $25–40 | Hostels, street food, buses, cheap attractions |
| Mid-range traveler | $50–90 | $40–70 | Hotels, tours, mixed dining |
| Luxury traveler | $120–250 | $90–180 | Resorts, private transport |
Traveling slowly and reducing domestic flights can significantly lower costs in both countries.
The daily essentials comparison
Small daily purchases add up quickly during a trip.
| Item | Thailand (2026) | Vietnam (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh coconut | $1.50 | $0.80 |
| Local beer | $2.50 | $1.20 |
| Rent-a-scooter | $6–9 / day | $4–7 / day |
| Unlimited SIM | $10–15 | $6–10 |
| Iced coffee | $2–3 | $1–2 |
Vietnam clearly wins for everyday spending.
Cost of flights to Thailand vs Vietnam
Flights are often the biggest upfront expense.
Thailand usually wins because Bangkok is one of Asia’s biggest flight hubs, with more airline competition and more direct routes.
Average return flights in 2026 from Europe or North America:
Thailand (Bangkok): $550–900
Vietnam (Hanoi / Ho Chi Minh City): $650–1,000
Thailand is often cheaper and easier to reach for first-time Southeast Asia travelers.
Visa and entry fees in 2026
Visa rules can impact travel costs.
Thailand charges a tourism fee of about 300 THB (around $8–9).
Vietnam requires most travelers to buy an e-visa costing $25–50.
Visa costs are similar overall, but Vietnam requires more planning before arrival.
Where your money goes furthest in 2026
Prices vary dramatically by region.
Northern Thailand (Chiang Mai and Pai) can be 30–40% cheaper than islands like Phuket or Koh Samui.
Central Vietnam (Da Nang and Hoi An) is often the sweet spot, cheaper than Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City while still offering beaches and great food.
Choosing the right region can dramatically reduce travel costs.
Accommodation prices in Thailand vs Vietnam
Accommodation is one of the biggest daily expenses, and Vietnam clearly wins on price.
Hostel dorm beds in Thailand cost $8–15 per night, while Vietnam ranges from $5–10.
Budget hotels in Thailand cost $30–50 per night. Vietnam averages $20–35 for similar comfort.
Thailand offers more luxury beach resorts, especially in Phuket and Koh Samui. Vietnam has fewer ultra-luxury resorts but excellent boutique hotels in Hanoi, Hoi An and Da Nang.
Food prices in Thailand vs Vietnam
Both countries are paradise for food lovers.
Street food meals in Thailand cost $2–3. In Vietnam they often cost just $1–2.
Local restaurant meals in Thailand cost $5–8. In Vietnam, $3–6.
Vietnam is slightly cheaper overall, but Thailand offers more international cuisine options.
Transport costs in Thailand vs Vietnam
Thailand has better infrastructure, but Vietnam is cheaper.
Domestic flights in Thailand cost $40–90. Vietnam averages $30–70.
Long-distance buses in Vietnam are cheaper but slower. Thailand’s transport is slightly more expensive but generally more comfortable.
Ride-hailing apps like Grab are widely available in both countries.
Activities and tours
Vietnam often provides better value for tours.
Island tours in Thailand cost $35–60.
Boat tours in Vietnam usually cost $20–35.
Trekking tours in Northern Thailand cost $30–50 per day.
Northern Vietnam trekking costs $20–35 per day.
Adventure travel is usually cheaper in Vietnam.
Digital nomad and long-stay costs
Both countries are extremely popular with digital nomads.
Unlimited SIM cards in Thailand cost $10–15/month. Vietnam costs $6–10/month.
Coworking spaces in Thailand cost $120–180/month. Vietnam costs $80–120/month.
Monthly apartments in Chiang Mai or Bangkok range from $350–800.
In Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City, similar apartments cost $250–600.
For long stays, Vietnam becomes noticeably cheaper.
Island vs mainland price differences
Thai islands like Phuket and Koh Phi Phi are among the most expensive places in Southeast Asia. Costs can be 40–60% higher than mainland Thailand.
Vietnam’s islands such as Phu Quoc are cheaper than Thai islands but slightly more expensive than mainland Vietnam.
Budget travelers should prioritize mainland destinations in both countries.
Two-week trip budget comparison
Budget travel
Thailand: $500–750
Vietnam: $400–650
Mid-range travel
Thailand: $900–1,300
Vietnam: $750–1,100
Comfort travel
Thailand: $1,800–3,000
Vietnam: $1,500–2,400
Vietnam saves most travelers $200–400 per trip.
Final verdict: Thailand or Vietnam in 2026?
Vietnam is the cheaper destination overall, especially for accommodation, food and tours.
Thailand is slightly more expensive but easier to travel, with better infrastructure and more luxury options.
If your goal is pure budget travel, Vietnam wins.
If you want comfort and smoother logistics, Thailand may justify the higher cost.
FAQ
Is Thailand cheaper than Vietnam?
Vietnam is usually 20–30% cheaper overall, especially for accommodation and daily meals.
How much money do you need per day in Thailand?
Budget travelers spend about $35–50 per day in Thailand.
How much money do you need per day in Vietnam?
Budget travelers spend about $25–40 per day in Vietnam.
Which country is better for first-time Southeast Asia travel?
Thailand is easier to navigate, while Vietnam is cheaper overall.
Is Vietnam safe for tourists?
Yes. Vietnam is considered very safe and popular with solo travelers and backpackers.
