💱📱 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.

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🛬 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)

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💱 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)

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📱 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

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📦 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

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📶 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

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✨ 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

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🛂 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: Visavietnamonlinev@gmail.com