The Budget Breakdown: Is It Possible?
Let’s be clear: a ₹35,000 budget for a seven-day trip to Vietnam is tight and requires discipline. Some estimates suggest a more comfortable budget starts around ₹40,000-₹55,000 per person. However, by aggressively targeting savings on the biggest expenses—flights,
accommodation, and food—you can make it work. This plan relies on staying at budget hostels, eating local street food, and booking flights well in advance during the off-season. Your spending will need to be carefully tracked, but the reward is an incredible international trip without breaking the bank.
Flights: Your Biggest Expense
Return flights are the largest part of your budget, typically costing between ₹15,000 and ₹28,000. To stay under the ₹35,000 total, you must find flights at the lower end of this range. Look for deals on budget carriers like VietJet Air and IndiGo, which often have fares below ₹15,000 if you're flexible. The cheapest months to fly are often February, March, September, and October. Booking at least two to three months in advance and flying from major hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, or Kolkata can secure the best prices. Consider an open-jaw ticket—flying into Hanoi and out of Ho Chi Minh City, or vice versa—to save time and money on backtracking.
Visa: A Simple, Affordable Step
Fortunately, getting a visa for Vietnam is straightforward and affordable for Indian citizens. You can apply for an e-Visa online. The fee for a single-entry e-Visa, valid for up to 90 days, is approximately $25 USD, which translates to about ₹2,100. The process usually takes three to five working days. Always use the official government website to apply and avoid third-party sites that may charge extra fees.
Accommodation: Embrace the Hostel Life
To stick to your budget, hostels are your best friend. A dorm bed in a clean, well-regarded hostel in cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City can cost as little as ₹400 to ₹1,200 ($5 to $14) per night. For a six-night stay, this totals around ₹2,400 to ₹7,200. Many hostels are located in prime backpacker areas like Hanoi's Old Quarter and offer amenities like free Wi-Fi and tour booking assistance. Opting for a budget-tier hostel will keep your accommodation costs under ₹4,000 for the week.
Food: A Delicious Feast for a Few Dollars
Vietnamese food is not only a highlight but also incredibly cheap. You can eat very well for about ₹800 to ₹1,200 ($10-$15) per day by sticking to street food and local eateries. A bowl of Phở or a Bánh Mì sandwich often costs between ₹100 and ₹250 ($1 to $3). For a week, your food budget could realistically be around ₹6,000-₹8,000. This allows you to sample a wide variety of iconic dishes without overspending. Avoid tourist-centric restaurants where prices are significantly higher.
Transport and Activities: Free and Frugal Fun
Once in Vietnam, getting around is affordable. Major cities are walkable, and for longer distances, ride-hailing apps like Grab offer cheap motorbike or car rides. For travel between cities like Hanoi and Da Nang, sleeper buses are a cost-effective option. Many of Vietnam's best experiences are free or low-cost. Spend your days exploring the chaotic charm of Hanoi's Old Quarter, wandering around Hoan Kiem Lake, or marveling at the architecture in Hoi An's ancient town. Many temples have minimal or no entry fees. A budget of around ₹4,000 should suffice for local transport and a few select attractions.
