Money, Currency and Cards in Laos
Local Currency
Kip (LAK)
General Advice
The kip is not easily obtained or exchanged outside of Laos, instead travel with US$, Thai baht or the Euro in cash and change locally. Travel and subsistence costs are low in Laos.
Money Exchange
Banks can be found in larger towns such as Vientiane and Luang Prabang; change enough here before heading into the wilds and take Thai baht (if travelling from Thailand) and US$ as a back-up.
ATM Availability
ATMs are few and far between and those that do exist are often broken or empty. Don’t rely on them. For more information check the Visa ATM locator, the MasterCard ATM locator or the American Express ATM locator for the addresses of ATMs around the world.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are only accepted in a few locations, usually top end shops, hotels and restaurants; cash advances can be obtained from some banks although commissions are high.
Travellers Cheques
Traveller's cheques can be cashed at most banks in Vientiane and other major towns, elsewhere pack them away and get out your cash.
Other Information
Laos Kip (LAK), nominally subdivided into 100 Att, however the value of the Att is so low it is not used. Banknotes are issued in denominations of 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10000, 20000 and 50000 Kip (₭). There are no coins currently in circulation.
