Laos
Money in Laos: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use Lao kip (LAK) for most purchases; carry cash for markets, tuk‑tuks and stalls, and keep a backup card for hotels or larger restaurants. Tip modestly if service is good.
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GuideLaos
Key facts
- Currency
- Lao kip (LAK)
- Cash necessity
- High – small notes needed for everyday transactions
- ATMscheck
- Available in Vientiane and Luang Prabang, low withdrawal limits, fees apply
- Card acceptancecheck
- Hotels, larger restaurants, some shops; may add surcharge
- Typical tipcheck
- 5–10 % of bill or round up to nearest 10,000 LAK
Currency and cash usage
The official currency is the Lao kip (LAK). Prices in tourist areas are often quoted in US dollars, but locals expect payment in kip, especially for small purchases. Small denominations (1,000–10,000 LAK) are essential for markets, street food, tuk‑tuk rides and bus tickets.
Because the kip fluctuates, keep an eye on exchange rates and change money at reputable banks or exchange bureaus in Vientiane or Luang Prabang.
- Carry at least 200,000 LAK in small notes for a day of basic travel.
- Avoid large bills for everyday use; they are hard to break.
ATMs and card access
ATMs are found in major towns (Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Pakse) and some larger hotels. Withdrawal limits are typically 100,000–200,000 LAK per transaction, and fees can be 2–3 % of the amount.
Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted. Some merchants prefer cash and may add a 5 % surcharge for card payments. QR‑code wallets (e.g., e‑wallets used by locals) are growing but not universal for tourists.
- Bring a backup card in case an ATM is out of service.
- Notify your bank of travel to avoid blocks.
Tipping guidelines
Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated for good service. In restaurants, round up the bill or leave 5–10 % if service was attentive. For guides, drivers and porters, a tip of 10,000–20,000 LAK per day is common.
Hotel staff (housekeeping, bellhop) may be tipped 5,000–10,000 LAK per service.
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Laos?
The Lao kip (LAK) is the official currency; small notes are needed for everyday purchases.
Should I use cash or a card in Laos?
Cash is essential for markets, tuk‑tuks and street food. Use cards at hotels, larger restaurants and some shops, but expect possible surcharges.
How much should I tip in Laos?
Tip 5–10 % in restaurants or round up the bill. For guides, drivers and porters, 10,000–20,000 LAK per day is customary.
Where can I find ATMs in Laos?
ATMs are in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Pakse and major hotels; limits are low and fees apply.
Is it safe to use credit cards in Laos?
Yes at reputable hotels and larger establishments, but keep a cash backup for smaller vendors.
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Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- secondaryVoykit – Laos guide
Ask about Laos
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