Introduction
Have you ever wondered what you can buy with just 7500 VND in Vietnam? With such a small amount, it might not seem like much, but in Vietnam, where daily expenses can be quite affordable, you’d be surprised at what you can get! Whether you’re a budget traveler, a backpacker, or just curious about the local economy, this guide will take you through what 7500 Vietnamese Dong can buy in Vietnam today.
Understanding the Value of 7500 VND
Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the official currency of Vietnam, and its denominations can be quite large compared to Western currencies. At the current exchange rate, 7500 VND is roughly equivalent to $0.30 USD or €0.25 EUR. While this amount might not even get you a bottle of water in some countries, in Vietnam, small amounts of money can still go a long way.
What Can You Buy with 7500 VND?
1. A Small Street Snack
Vietnamese street food is legendary for its affordability and delicious flavors. With 7500 VND, you can grab:
- A small bánh mì (Vietnamese sandwich) – Some vendors sell smaller versions or just the bread itself for about 5000-7000 VND.
- A piece of bánh tráng (Vietnamese rice paper snack) – These crispy rice paper treats with sauce and toppings are often sold in small portions at this price.
- A banana or small bag of fruit – Street vendors often sell fresh bananas, guavas, or small bags of cut fruit for around this amount.
2. A Bottle of Drinking Water
Staying hydrated is important in Vietnam’s tropical climate. A 500ml bottle of water from a convenience store costs between 5000-8000 VND, making 7500 VND just enough to quench your thirst.
3. A Cup of Local Tea
Vietnamese tea is incredibly cheap, especially when bought from street vendors. For 5000-7000 VND, you can enjoy a glass of trà đá (iced tea) or trà nóng (hot tea) at local eateries.
4. A Bus Ticket in Some Cities
If you’re in cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, local buses charge around 5000-7000 VND per ride. That means 7500 VND is enough for a short trip on public transportation.
5. A Small Bag of Instant Noodles
Supermarkets and convenience stores sell basic instant noodle packets for around 5000-8000 VND, making 7500 VND just enough for a simple meal.
6. Some Candies or Gum
For those with a sweet tooth, chewing gum, candies, or small chocolate bars can be found for 2000-7000 VND, depending on the brand and quality.
What You Can’t Buy with 7500 VND
While 7500 VND can get you some small treats, there are many things it won’t cover, such as:
❌ A cup of Vietnamese coffee (usually starts at 10,000 VND)
❌ A bowl of phở (typically 30,000+ VND)
❌ A Grab bike ride (minimum fares start at 10,000-15,000 VND)
❌ A meal at a restaurant (budget meals usually cost 30,000+ VND)
How to Make the Most of Small Change in Vietnam
If you find yourself with just 7500 VND, here are some tips on making the most of it:
- Combine it with other small change – If you have a few extra thousand VND, you can get more substantial items.
- Buy local snacks – Street vendors and traditional markets often have the cheapest food options.
- Use it for tips – Though not mandatory, small change can be given as a small tip in certain situations.
- Save it for later – Many locals carry small denominations for convenience when making purchases.
Conclusion
Though 7500 VND may seem like pocket change, it still has value in Vietnam, especially when it comes to small snacks, drinks, and transportation. If you’re visiting Vietnam, understanding the currency and what you can buy at different price points will help you navigate local markets and street vendors like a pro.
FAQs
1. Is 7500 VND a lot of money in Vietnam?
No, 7500 VND is a very small amount, roughly equivalent to $0.30 USD, but it can still get you small street food items or a bottle of water.
2. Can I buy a meal with 7500 VND?
Not really. A full meal, even at a budget-friendly street food stall, usually costs at least 30,000 VND or more.
3. What’s the best way to use small change in Vietnam?
Small change is useful for buying snacks, water, and bus fares or for tipping in small amounts.
4. Can I exchange 7500 VND into my local currency?
Most currency exchange services won’t exchange such a small amount, but you can combine it with larger denominations to exchange later.
5. What is the cheapest thing I can buy in Vietnam?
Cheapest items include iced tea (trà đá), small candies, instant noodles, or a piece of bánh mì.
