Explore Vietnam and Laos as a backpacker with our ultimate guide! Discover budget-friendly tips, hidden gems, cultural etiquette, and book affordable Vietnam Tours or Laos Travel with Legend Travel Group—only 10% deposit, pay balance 30 days before departure for peace of mind!
$2 breakfast? Yes, please—Vietnam’s street food reigns supreme (Source: Internet)Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights and guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys. By Legend Travel Group.
Vietnam and Laos are backpacker paradises—two neighboring gems in Southeast Asia where ancient temples meet misty mountains, bustling night markets blend with serene rivers, and every dollar stretches far. From the chaotic charm of Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the tranquil 4,000 Islands of Laos, this route offers raw cultural immersion, stunning landscapes, and unbeatable value. Whether you’re crossing borders by bus, cruising the Mekong, or hiking through ethnic villages, backpacking here is about freedom, discovery, and real connections.
Legend Travel Group specializes in crafting Vietnam Tours and Laos Travel experiences that keep the spirit of backpacking alive—flexible itineraries, local guides, and sustainable practices. Book with just a 10% deposit and pay the balance 30 days before departure—travel with complete peace of mind.
Witness Laos’ sacred sunrise tradition in silence (Source: Internet)Vietnam: Most nationalities enjoy 45-day visa exemption (e.g., EU, UK) or e-visa ($25). Apply online in 3 days.
Laos: 30-day visa on arrival ($30–$42) at major borders (e.g., Nam Phao–Cau Treo, Dansavanh–Lao Bao) or e-visa ($50).
Border Tip: Use direct buses (Hanoi → Vientiane, $25–$35) or local transport. Carry USD for visa fees.
|
Category |
Vietnam (VND/USD) |
Laos (LAK/USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Hostel/Guesthouse |
150,000–300,000 / $6–$12 |
50,000–100,000 / $2.5–$5 |
|
Street Food |
30,000–70,000 / $1.2–$3 |
20,000–50,000 / $1–$2.5 |
|
Local Transport |
20,000–50,000 / $0.8–$2 |
10,000–30,000 / $0.5–$1.5 |
|
Total |
$9–$17 |
$4–$9 |
Vietnam: Overnight sleeper buses (Hanoi → Hue: $15), trains (Hanoi → Sapa: $25), Grab rides ($1–$3).
Laos: VIP buses (Vientiane → Luang Prabang: $20), minivans, or rent a scooter ($6–$10/day).
Border Hop: Hanoi → Nong Khai (Thailand) → Vientiane combo tickets available.
Lightweight daypack (20–30L)
Reusable water bottle with filter
Universal adapter + power bank
Quick-dry towel & flip-flops
Rain jacket (wet season: May–Oct)
Photocopies of passport + e-visa
Offline maps (Maps.me)
Greetings: “Xin chào” (Vietnam) and “Sabaidee” (Laos) with a smile and slight bow.
Dress: Cover shoulders and knees at temples (e.g., Wat Phra Kaew, Temple of Literature).
Behavior: Remove shoes indoors; don’t point feet at Buddha statues; ask before photographing monks or locals.
Tipping: Not expected but appreciated (10,000 VND / 20,000 LAK for good service).
Laos’ ultimate backpacker rite of passage (Source: Internet)Day 1–3: Hanoi – Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, street food crawl ($8/day).
Day 4–5: Ha Long Bay – Budget boat tour ($40–$60, includes meals).
Day 6–7: Ninh Binh – “Ha Long on land” – bike rental + boat ride ($10).
Day 8–10: Hue & Hoi An – Imperial City, lantern-lit streets, tailor-made clothes.
Day 11–13: Ho Chi Minh City – War Remnants Museum, Ben Thanh Market, Cu Chi Tunnels day trip.
Day 14: Mekong Delta – Homestay + boat tour ($25).
Day 15: Cross into Laos – Ho Chi Minh City → Pakse (sleeper bus, $30).
Day 16–18: Pakse & 4,000 Islands – Waterfalls, Irrawaddy dolphins, island tubing ($6–$10/day).
Day 19–21: Luang Prabang – Kuang Si Falls, alms-giving ceremony, night market.
Total Estimated Cost (21 days): $400–$600 (excluding flights)
Vietnam: Tam Coc at sunrise, Phong Nha caves, Lan Ha Bay (less crowded than Ha Long).
Laos: Nong Khiaw cliffs, Tham Kong Lor cave, Plain of Jars.
Light up the night—Hoi An’s magic in one frame (Source: Internet)Stay in homestays and support local families.
Use refill stations (Refill Not Landfill).
Avoid single-use plastics—carry a metal straw.
Choose ethical elephant sanctuaries (no riding).
Ready to turn this dream into reality? Legend Travel Group offers customizable Vietnam Tours and Laos Travelpackages designed for backpackers—affordable, authentic, and responsible.
Flexible Itineraries: Mix and match destinations.
Local Guides: Insider knowledge, no tourist traps.
Eco-Conscious: Carbon-offset transport, community support.
Easy Booking: Only 10% deposit, balance due 30 days before departure.
Explore options and book now at https://www.legendtravelgroup.com — your adventure starts with peace of mind.
$30 from Hanoi to Hue—sleep, save, explore (Source: Internet)How much money do I need for 3 weeks? $400–$600 total (excluding international flights).
Is it safe to travel overland? Yes—buses are reliable; use reputable companies.
Can I extend my trip? Absolutely! Add Sapa (Vietnam) or Vang Vieng (Laos).
Do I need vaccinations? Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine shots recommended.
Best time to go? November–April (dry season); avoid June–August (heavy rain).
Backpacking through Vietnam and Laos is more than a trip—it’s a journey of discovery, flavor, and freedom. From misty rice terraces to golden temples, every step reveals a new story. With smart planning, cultural respect, and the right partner, your adventure will be legendary.
Let Legend Travel Group handle the details while you focus on the experience. Book your Vietnam Tours or Laos Travel today with just a 10% deposit—peace of mind, guaranteed.
By Legend Travel Group — Crafting Unforgettable Journeys Since 2008.
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