Vietnam Credit Card Tips: Where and When to Use Your Card

Vietnam is a credit card tips friendly destination, but cash remains essential, especially in rural areas and small businesses. While using credit cards in Vietnam is convenient for hotels, malls, and upscale restaurants, many local shops and markets prefer cash.

1. Credit Card Fees in Vietnam: What to Expect

When traveling, understanding potential fees associated with using credit cards in Vietnam can help you save money and avoid surprises on your statement. Credit card fees can vary depending on your bank, the type of card you have, and how you use it. Below are the most common charges you should be aware of, along with practical Vietnam credit card tips to minimize them.

1.1. Foreign Transaction Fees 

Most banks charge foreign transaction fees when you use your credit card abroad. These fees typically range from 1% to 3% of the total transaction amount and are automatically added to your bill. While this may not seem like much, it can quickly add up if you use your card frequently during your trip.

💡 How to Avoid or Reduce Foreign Transaction Fees:
✅ Use a travel-friendly credit card that offers zero foreign transaction fees. Many banks now provide such options for frequent travelers.
✅ Consider using a multi-currency digital wallet or prepaid travel card that supports transactions in Vietnamese đồng (VND).
✅ Check with your bank before traveling to understand your card’s fees and see if there are any promotional offers for international transactions.

1.2. ATM Withdrawal Fees

While ATMs are widely available in Vietnam, withdrawing cash with a credit card is one of the most expensive ways to get money. There are two major fees to consider:

1️⃣ Cash Advance Fee – Most credit card providers charge between 3% and 5% of the withdrawn amount, with a minimum fee (e.g., $5 or more per transaction).
2️⃣ High Interest Rates – Unlike regular purchases, cash advances start accumulating interest immediately, often at rates above 20% APR.

💡 Vietnam Credit Card Tips for Cash Withdrawals:
✅ Use a debit card instead of a credit card to withdraw cash and avoid cash advance fees.
✅ If you must use a credit card for cash, withdraw only a small amount and repay it as soon as possible to minimize interest charges.
✅ Choose ATMs operated by major Vietnamese banks (such as Vietcombank, BIDV, and Techcombank) for lower fees.

✔️ Explore: ATMs in Vietnam: Finding Cash & Avoiding Fees

1.3. Currency Conversion Fees

When making a payment in Vietnam, you may be asked:
“Would you like to pay in your home currency or in VND?”

While it may seem convenient to pay in your home currency (e.g., USD, EUR, or GBP), this Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) often comes with higher exchange rates and extra fees.

💡 How to Avoid Currency Conversion Fees:
✅ Always choose to pay in Vietnamese đồng (VND) to get a fair exchange rate from your bank.
✅ Check your credit card provider’s foreign exchange rates in advance to understand conversion costs.
✅ If your card has a multi-currency feature, enable it to avoid conversion charges.

1.4. Hidden Fees 

Apart from the obvious charges, some hidden fees can unexpectedly increase your expenses when using credit cards in Vietnam. These include:

🔹 Minimum purchase amounts – Some small businesses require a minimum spending amount to accept credit cards.
🔹 Hotel & car rental deposits – Many hotels and rental agencies place a temporary hold on your card, which can reduce your available credit.
🔹 Inactivity fees – Some travel cards charge a fee if you don’t use them for a certain period.

💡 Vietnam Credit Card Security Tip: Always check your bank statements and transaction history regularly to spot any unexpected charges.

✔️ Explore: Staying Safe Online in Vietnam: Tips for Travelers

2. Where Are Credit Cards Accepted in Vietnam?

While using Vietnam credit card tips is convenient in many places, cash remains the dominant payment method, especially in smaller towns and rural areas. Knowing where your card will be accepted helps you plan your spending efficiently.

Where Credit Cards Are Easily Accepted

You’ll have no trouble paying by card at:
✅ Hotels & Resorts – Most mid-range to luxury accommodations accept major credit cards.
✅ Shopping Malls & High-End Stores – International brands and department stores readily accept cards.
✅ Upscale Restaurants & Cafés – Many fine-dining spots, coffee chains, and international franchises accept credit cards.

💡 Tip: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, while American Express and Discover may not be.

Cash vs. Credit Cards – When to Use Which?

💳 Use Credit Cards For:

• 📍 Large purchases (hotels, tours, shopping malls).
• 📍 Secure transactions at international businesses.

💰 Use Cash For:

• 📍 Daily expenses (food stalls, local transport, tips).
• 📍 Rural areas or places without card machines.

✔️ Explore: Using Mobile Wallets in Vietnam: Momo, ZaloPay & VNPay

3. Credit Card Security in Vietnam: Stay Safe from Scams

While using Vietnam credit card tips is generally safe, travelers should be aware of potential risks such as card skimming, unauthorized charges, and fraud. By taking a few precautions, you can protect your finances and enjoy a worry-free trip.

3.1. Card Skimming Risks 

Card skimming happens when fraudsters steal your card details from an ATM or payment terminal. This can lead to unauthorized transactions or even card duplication.

💡 How to stay safe:
✅ Use ATMs inside banks or shopping malls, which are less likely to have skimming devices.
✅ Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
✅ Avoid handing your card to staff at unfamiliar or unverified locations—always make sure transactions happen in front of you.

3.2. Double-Checking Receipts

Some merchants may accidentally (or intentionally) charge you twice or add extra fees.

💡 What to do:
✅ Always check the total amount before signing or entering your PIN.
✅ Keep all receipts to compare with your bank statement later.
✅ If you spot an incorrect charge, contact your bank immediately.

3.3. Using Mobile Banking Apps

A great way to enhance Vietnam credit card tips security is by tracking your transactions through a mobile banking app.

💡 Why it helps:
✅ You can instantly spot suspicious charges and report them.
✅ Many apps allow you to lock your card if it gets lost or stolen.
✅ Some banks offer virtual cards for added security when shopping online.

✔️ Explore: Paying with QR Codes in Vietnam: A Quick & Easy Guide

4. When to Use Cash Instead of a Credit Card for Safety Reasons

In some situations, paying with cash is safer than using a Vietnam credit card tips.

💰 Use cash when:

• 📍 Shopping at local markets or small vendors where credit card security may not be reliable.
• 📍 Paying for transportation, tips, or small purchases to avoid minimum charge requirements.
• 📍 Visiting remote areas where card fraud protection may be weaker.

💡 Pro Tip: Enable Transaction Alerts and Set a Spending Limit for Extra Security

Most banks allow you to enable real-time transaction alerts and set daily spending limits. This way, you’ll know immediately if any suspicious activity occurs.

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5. Essential Credit Card Tips for Travelers in Vietnam

Inform your bank before traveling to avoid unexpected card blocks and enable mobile banking alerts for real-time transaction monitoring. Use contactless payments whenever possible to reduce fraud risks, and opt for Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay where available.

Avoid withdrawing cash from a credit card due to high fees (3-5% per withdrawal) and immediate interest charges. Instead, use a debit card or exchange currency at reputable locations.

Always carry a backup card from a different network (Visa/Mastercard) and store it separately. Save your bank’s customer service number in case of loss or theft, and know how to freeze your card if needed.

For maximum flexibility, carry both credit cards and cash—use cards for hotels and large purchases, but rely on cash for markets, street food, and transport.

✔️ Explore: Digital Payments in Vietnam: A Guide for Tourists

6. Conclusion

Using a credit card in Vietnam is convenient, but understanding fees, acceptance, and security is key to a stress-free trip. Always choose a card with no foreign transaction fees, use contactless payments where possible, and carry some cash as a backup. Avoid cash withdrawals from credit cards due to high fees, and stay alert to fraud risks like skimming. By planning ahead and following these Vietnam credit card tips, you can save money, stay secure, and enjoy your travels hassle-free.