💱📱 Guide to Exchanging Money & Buying a SIM Card at Vietnamese Airports (2025)

Just landed in Vietnam? Before heading to your hotel or exploring the city, two important things you should do right away are:
✔️ Exchange some local currency (VND)
✔️ Buy a Vietnamese SIM card with mobile data

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help foreign travelers quickly get connected and ready to go right at the airport.

🛬 Applies to all major international airports in Vietnam:

Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi)
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)
Da Nang International Airport
Cam Ranh International Airport (Nha Trang)

💱 1. How to Exchange Money at the Airport

✅ Where to exchange:

Official bank counters (e.g., Vietcombank, BIDV, VietinBank)
Currency exchange booths inside the Arrival Hall

💵 Accepted foreign currencies:

USD, EUR, AUD, SGD, GBP, etc.
You will receive Vietnamese Dong (VND)

📌 Tips for exchanging money:

Airport exchange rates are usually slightly lower than in the city
It’s best to exchange a small amount (e.g., 1–2 million VND or $40–$80 USD) for your first day
For better rates, exchange larger amounts later in downtown areas

💳 Using ATMs:

Most ATMs accept Visa / MasterCard / UnionPay
You can withdraw VND directly at airport ATMs
Fee: Usually 3%–5% per transaction (check with your bank)

📱 2. How to Buy a SIM Card at the Airport

✅ Where to buy:

SIM card booths are located in the Arrival Hall, after immigration and baggage claim

🥇 Recommended mobile networks:

Viettel – strongest nationwide coverage
Vinaphone – reliable and affordable
Mobifone – fast speeds in urban areas

📦 Popular SIM card packages:

Data only: 5–10GB/day, valid for 7–30 days
Data + Calls: great if you need to make local calls (e.g., taxis, hotels, tours)

💲 Price range: 150,000 – 300,000 VND (~$6–$12 USD)

📌 Good to know:

Staff will help install the SIM, activate the network, and set up 4G for you
Test the SIM immediately before leaving the counter

📶 What if you prefer eSIM?

Many providers (like Viettel or Airalo) offer eSIM plans
You can install it by scanning a QR code – no physical SIM needed
Great for newer iPhones or travelers who want to keep their home SIM active

✨ Pro Tips for Travelers:

Save your new Vietnamese phone number and keep the SIM packaging
Exchange a small amount of cash first — many small shops don’t accept cards
Buy your SIM and exchange money immediately after immigration, before leaving the airport

🛂 Don’t Forget Your Visa!

Need a Vietnam Visa Before You Travel?

Apply for a Vietnam tourist e-visa (valid for 90 days) completely online.

⏱ In a rush? Get your urgent e-visa in just 1–3 hours with our fast-track service.

👉 Visit: VietnamVisaEasy.com
📧 Email: [email protected]

🛬 Applies to all major international airports in Vietnam: