Thailand vs Vietnam
Daily costs compared with the same 2026 data for both, and which trip suits you.
Vietnam is a little cheaper than Thailand day to day, mainly because of cheaper beds. Thailand has better beaches and an easier first-timer setup.
Thailand
Vietnam cheaper
Costs side by side
| Backpacker, per day | Thailand | Vietnam |
|---|---|---|
| Average day | $36 | $33 |
| Dorm bed | $8 | $5 |
| Food & drink per day | $9 | $9 |
| Local transport per day | $5 | $5 |
Vietnam is cheaper by about $3 a day, or $42 over two weeks. Figures are from Hostelz backpacker budgets (October 2026), which use the same method for every country, so the comparison is fair. For Thailand prices in baht, see how much Thailand costs.
Where Vietnam wins
- Cheaper dorms, about $5 a night on average.
- A natural north-to-south route with dramatic scenery: Ha Long Bay, the northern mountains, Hoi An.
- Coffee culture and food that rival Thailand's.
Where Thailand wins
- Better and more varied beaches and islands.
- Simpler entry for many nationalities: 30 days visa-free.
- A more developed backpacker network: more hostels, more ferries, more English.
Which should you choose?
Pick Vietnam if you want a long overland journey, mountains and history, and the lowest possible bed prices.
Pick Thailand if beaches and islands matter, or it is your first time in Southeast Asia.
Partner links. If you book through them we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.
Questions people ask
Is Vietnam cheaper than Thailand?
Slightly. Hostelz puts Vietnam at $33 a day and Thailand at $36 for a backpacker in October 2026, mostly due to cheaper dorms.
Which has better beaches, Thailand or Vietnam?
Thailand, especially the Andaman coast and the Gulf islands.
Is Thailand or Vietnam better for first-timers?
Thailand is usually easier, with more hostels, transport options and English spoken in tourist areas.