Atm Availability At Vientiane Airport: Where And When?

Vientiane Wattay International Airport is located 3 kilometres from the centre of Vientiane, the capital of Laos. The airport has two small connected terminals, an international terminal and a new domestic terminal. It is equipped with one runway and one main passenger terminal. The airport has various services, including shopping, restaurants, information, currency exchange, and ATMs.

ATM locations at Vientiane Airport

Vientiane Wattay International Airport (VTE) has ATMs available for passengers to use. However, the exact locations of these ATMs are unknown. It is recommended that you notify your bank of your travel plans and check your bank's fee schedule and daily withdrawal limit before travelling internationally.

The currency used at the airport in Vientiane, Laos, is the Laotian Kip (LAK). It is not possible to buy Laotian Kip outside of Laos, so it is advisable to bring some US dollars or another foreign currency to exchange upon arrival.

There is a bank located inside the terminal that provides money exchange services, and currency exchange counters are available at the airport. However, their locations are also unknown.

If you are planning to use a Visa or Mastercard debit card at the airport ATM, be aware that while some banks do not charge international transaction fees, you may not be reimbursed for international ATM operator fees. It is recommended to bring some cash in a foreign currency as a backup.

For those travelling on to Thailand after Laos, it is worth getting some Thai Baht, as the exchange rates are reportedly very good in Laos.

Currency exchange at Vientiane Airport

Vientiane Wattay International Airport (VTE) is located 3 kilometres from the centre of Vientiane, the capital of Laos. The airport has a modern terminal building, which has been upgraded in recent years to provide a comfortable travel experience for passengers.

The airport terminal provides various services, including currency exchange and ATMs. There is a bank located inside the terminal that offers money exchange services. The currency used at the airport is the Laotian Kip (LAK).

ATMs are also available at the airport, although their exact locations are unknown. Fees may apply when using the ATMs, so it is recommended to check with your bank about any applicable fees and your daily withdrawal limit. It is also a good idea to notify your bank of your travel plans.

The exchange rate at the airport may differ from the rate offered by ATMs in the city. It is generally recommended not to buy too much Laotian Kip, as it can be difficult to change it back.

In addition to currency exchange and ATMs, the airport terminal also offers shopping, restaurants, information, and transportation options.

Using a debit card at Vientiane Airport

Vientiane Wattay International Airport in Laos has ATMs, currency exchange services, and a bank inside the terminal. If you plan to use your debit card at the airport, here is some information that might be useful for you.

Firstly, it is a good idea to notify your bank about your travel plans. There may be fees associated with using your debit card at the airport ATMs, so check your bank's fee schedule and daily withdrawal limit. The currency used at the airport is the Laotian Kip (LAK), and the exchange rate at the airport ATMs should be the same as the current Visa/Mastercard rate at the time of the transaction.

Some travellers have reported issues with using their cards in Laos, so it is advisable to carry some cash, preferably in low-denomination US dollars, as a backup. If you are travelling to Thailand before Laos, it may be beneficial to get some Thai Baht, as the exchange rates for Baht are reported to be favourable in Laos.

Additionally, if you plan to obtain a visa on arrival in Laos, you will need US$40, so ensure you have sufficient funds in your account before your trip.

Lastly, while the airport terminal has been upgraded to provide a comfortable travel experience, dining options are limited, and there are no dedicated sleeping areas or quiet zones. There are, however, hotels nearby that offer shuttle services.

Buying Laotian Kip in Sydney

It is not possible to buy Laotian kip in Sydney or anywhere outside Laos, except for a few places near the border. However, you can buy Laotian kip online and have it delivered to your home or office, or you can pick it up from a bureau near Heathrow.

If you are unable to obtain Laotian kip before your trip, you can withdraw kip from an ATM at Vientiane Airport using your ING Visa Debit card. It is worth noting that ING does not refund international ATM operator fees, and you may want to notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your card being blocked for suspicious overseas activity.

It is also worth bearing in mind that Laos is a largely cash-based society, and card acceptance is mostly limited to major cities, international hotels, and upscale stores. Local vendors often prefer cash, and US dollars are a de facto currency in Laos.

Therefore, it is advisable to have some cash in US dollars and Laotian kip when visiting Laos. You can exchange currency at Vientiane Airport, but the exchange rates may be less favourable than online platforms.

If you plan to use your debit or credit card in Laos, it is essential to understand the associated fees and strategies to avoid or reduce them. For example, using ATMs sparingly and making larger withdrawals can help reduce the number of transactions and, consequently, the charges.

Additionally, it is recommended to research your bank's partnerships with local banks in Laos, as this may allow for lower fees or free withdrawals at partner ATMs.

In summary, while you may not be able to buy Laotian kip in Sydney, you can acquire it through online platforms or ATMs at Vientiane Airport. However, it is advisable to have a mix of currencies, including US dollars and Laotian kip, to facilitate transactions during your stay in Laos.

International transaction fees at Vientiane Airport

When travelling, it is always a good idea to carry some local currency. If you are flying into Vientiane Wattay International Airport, you may be wondering about the availability of cash machines and the fees for international transactions.

ATM Availability at Vientiane Airport

Vientiane Airport has two small connected terminals, with an international terminal and a new domestic terminal. While the airport does have ATMs, their locations are unknown. There is also a bank inside the terminal that provides money exchange services.

International Transaction Fees

When using an ATM at Vientiane Airport, fees may apply for international transactions. These fees will depend on your bank's fee schedule and daily withdrawal limit. It is recommended that you check these details before travelling. Additionally, consider notifying your bank of your travel plans to avoid any unexpected charges.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange counters are available at the airport, but their location is not specified. The exchange rates observed at the airport may differ from those in the city. It is worth noting that you cannot buy Lao Kip outside of Laos, except for a few places near the border.

Other Tips

• It is not possible to purchase Lao Kip with a credit card at the airport.
• Some travellers have reported issues with using cards in Laos, so carrying some cash is advisable.
• If you are visiting Thailand before Laos, it is recommended to bring some Thai Baht, as the exchange rates are favourable.
• For those obtaining a visa on arrival, ensure you have the required amount in US Dollars.

Frequently asked questions