For Those Planning a Transit at Vientiane Airport in Laos! We’ve compiled essential information to…
Laos Currency Guide 2025: What Every Transit Traveler Should Know
Should I Exchange Money? Can I Use Cards?
Worried about short transit in Laos? Find out the latest on currency so you can enjoy a smooth stay!
1. Learn About Laos’ Currency
Laos’ official currency is the kip (LAK). Banknotes range from 500 to 100,000 kip, and coins are almost non-existent. Be aware that the banknotes are quite large and can be cumbersome to handle.
In major cities, you can also use US dollars (USD) or Thai baht (THB). However, you’ll usually receive your change in kip. In rural areas, only kip is accepted, so be sure to plan accordingly.
Check the latest exchange rates here!
2. Not Just Kip? Other Currencies Accepted in Laos
In Vientiane and Luang Prabang, you can pay in USD or Thai baht at hotels, tour companies, and restaurants. However, the exchange rate may be unfavorable, so caution is advised.
Tips for Paying
- If you plan to use US dollars, have smaller bills ($1, $5, $10). Large denominations may be refused.
- Thai baht is mostly used near border areas; in the capital, it may sometimes be rejected.
- You’ll usually get your change in kip. Even if you pay in USD, you’ll often receive your change in smaller kip bills.
Check more on Laos’ currency situation here!
3. Can I Use Credit Cards? The Cashless Scene
In urban areas, Visa and Mastercard are generally accepted, but you’ll often be charged a 3–5% fee, making card usage more expensive than cash.
QR payments (UnionPay, Alipay) are widespread among Chinese tourists, but they’re barely usable for travelers from other countries.
Outside major cities, credit cards are almost never accepted, so be sure to carry cash!
Learn more about Laos’ cashless situation here!
4. Where Should You Exchange Money? Airport vs. City vs. ATM
(1) Airport Exchange Counters (Open 24 Hours)
✔ Pros: You can get local currency immediately upon arrival
✘ Cons: The rates are worse (about 5–10% lower than in the city)
(2) City Exchange Counters (Open 9:00 AM–6:00 PM)
✔ Pros: Better rates than at the airport
✘ Cons: Limited operating hours
Note: Hours vary by exchange counter.
(3) ATMs (Available 24 Hours)
✔ Pros: Withdraw kip directly in Laos
✘ Cons: High fees ($3–$5 per transaction); some ATMs don’t allow withdrawals over $100
Recommended Exchange Methods
- If you have a short transit, exchange only the minimum at the airport, then do more in the city.
- If using an ATM, withdraw the total amount you need in a single transaction to save on fees.
- If you already have US dollars, exchanging them at a city exchange counter is best.
Check recommended exchange spots here!
5. Laos’ Cash Culture and Tipping Etiquette
Laos doesn’t generally have a tipping culture, but a small tip is appreciated in these scenarios:
✔ Hotels (if someone carries your luggage) → 10,000–20,000 kip ($0.5–$1)
✔ Restaurants (upscale) → 5–10% of the bill
✔ Taxis/Tuk-tuks → Rounding up to the nearest kip is usually enough
Check more on Laos’ tipping customs here!
6. Conclusion: Exchange Smartly for a Comfortable Transit!
If your transit time is 3 hours or more, consider going into the city!
Example Plan for a 5-Hour Transit
- 1:00 PM Arrive at the airport & exchange a minimal amount (around $10)
- 1:30 PM Take a taxi or tuk-tuk to the city (approx. 20 minutes)
- 2:00 PM Enjoy lunch in a city café or restaurant (USD accepted)
- 3:00 PM Visit a city exchange counter to exchange more money
- 3:30 PM Head back to the airport (aim to arrive by 4:30 PM)
If you want to make the most of your transit in Laos, having enough cash is essential!
“Wondering if you can rest comfortably during transit without booking an overnight stay?” Try a day-use hotel!
To see whether it’s more cost-effective than a regular hotel, check out this article!
