Currency, Credit Cards and Changing Money in Laos

If you're planning a holiday in Laos, here is what you need to know about currency, cash and credit cards

Currency
The local currency in Laos is the Kip which is issued in denominations of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 & 100,000 Kip notes.

Taking cash & cards to Laos
Although Laos's official currency is the Kip, the US Dollar is widely accepted in many transactions, so we recommend taking some US Dollars in cash.

In Vientiane and Luang Prabang you can exchange hard currency - including British Pounds - relatively easily at licensed exchange shops, or in the banks. In other major towns, Thai Baht and US Dollars are also readily accepted in markets, hotels and restaurants. Many smaller hotels will only accept US dollars. It is therefore best to take some US Dollar bills in small denominations and whilst in the rural parts of the country you should have some Kip with you. Kip holds no value outside Laos so keep your exchange receipts in order to exchange any remaining Kip back to a hard currency when you leave the country.

The US Dollar exchange rates on offer in the UK vary considerably, so it pays to shop around. As a general rule always avoid exchanging money at the airport unless you have pre-ordered to secure a favourable rate. One of the most convenient ways to get the best exchange rate is to order in advance and either collect the currency at the providers' outlet or arrange delivery. You can check the best rates available on price comparison websites such as moneysavingexpert.com or travelsupermarket.com. The Post Office's pre-ordering service is also usually competitive and convenient for collection. It is worth requesting some small denomination notes.

Credit cards are normally not accepted outside the better hotels and a select group of shops in Vientiane and Luang Prabang. As the use of credit cards will be limited outside of the main urban areas, if you are travelling in remote parts of the country make sure you have a supply of cash with you. Cash advances can be taken on major credit cards in most Vientiane banks and the capital has a number of ATM machines. ATMs can also be found in Luang Prabang and some other large towns such as Oudomxai, Pakse, Savannakhet and Vang Vieng, but bear in mind that, due to local conditions such as power cuts, these will be less reliable than cash machines back home.

Best pre-paid cards for Laos
Prepaid credit cards are now the safest way to travel with ‘cash', and are much more cost effective and convenient than Travellers Cheques which are now slowly becoming obsolete.

We recommend the Caxton FX Global Traveller card which offers a fixed exchange rate at 2.75% below the prevailing interbank rate when spending overseas and withdrawing local currency from ATMs. Unlike credit cards the application process is straightforward, but you need to allow 7 days for delivery of the card. For more information please visit caxtonfx.com. 

Using credit cards in Laos
If you travel regularly it will pay to apply for one of the specialist credit cards for travellers that offer excellent rates of exchange and charge zero "load" fees when purchasing items, or withdrawing local currency from ATMs whilst abroad. For up to date information on the best specialist credit cards for travellers we suggest visiting one of the price comparison websites.

Find out more about our holidays in Laos. To discuss your travel needs, you can complete an enquiry form or call our Asia experts on 020 7720 9285.