For British travellers determined to make their holiday money stretch further in 2026, the search for value might lead to an unexpected destination: Hanoi. According to exclusive research, Vietnam's bustling capital offers some of the best value on the planet, with a basket of common tourist purchases costing a mere £5.60.
The £5.60 Evening: How Hanoi Stacks Up
Asia travel specialists TransIndus conducted a fascinating cost comparison, compiling a typical basket of goods a tourist might buy shortly after arrival. Their research, based on prices reported by current travellers and expats, focused on three staple items: a casual meal, local drinks, and short-distance transport.
The results are startling for UK holidaymakers. In Hanoi, a McDonald's combo meal, such as a Big Mac Meal, costs approximately £3.14. Adding three 0.5-litre bottles of domestic beer from a supermarket, priced at £0.42 each (totalling £1.26), and a 5km bike taxi ride booked via a local app for around £1.20, brings the complete total to just £5.60.
A spokesperson for TransIndus explained the methodology: "People understandably want their holiday money to go further in 2026 - but the smartest approach is to plan with a few simple 'anchor' costs in mind. A short ride, a casual meal, and a couple of drinks are the sort of everyday purchases many travellers make in the first 24 hours. If those are low, it's a strong sign the city is going to feel great value overall."
Beyond Hanoi: Other Top Value Asian Cities
While Hanoi leads the pack for sheer affordability, the research highlights several other Asian destinations where British tourists can enjoy significant value. The identical basket of goods costs slightly more but remains highly competitive in other major cities.
TransIndus found the following costs for the same meal, drinks, and transport combination:
- Yogyakarta, Indonesia: Approximately £8.07.
- Manila, Philippines: Approximately £8.38.
- Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Approximately £9.29.
This reinforces Vietnam's reputation as a premier budget-friendly destination. A separate Post Office Money report noted that the beautiful town of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site roughly 479 miles south of Hanoi, is now 10% cheaper than it was in 2023.
Experiencing Vietnam's Charm on a Budget
The appeal of Vietnam extends far beyond low-price tags. Hoi An, with its exceptionally preserved 15th- to 19th-century architecture, offers magical evenings where lantern light reflects on the water. With over 800 historic buildings protected, it provides an authentic step back in time.
Travel blogger Travel Lush highly recommends exploring Hoi An by bicycle, a mode of transport often provided free by local hotels. "Wandering aimlessly around the Ancient Town is easily one of the best things to do in Hoi An," the blogger suggests, praising the postcard-perfect alleyways, street food, and unique shops. "Cycling is an incredible way to check out all of the city’s beautiful temples, emerald rice paddies and everyday street scenes."
Travellers can expect warm temperatures averaging around 29°C for much of the year, though they should note the long rainy season from November to January. The ideal times to visit are during the autumn or from February onwards. While costs in Vietnam are remarkably low, the major expense for UK visitors remains the flight, with return fares typically around £780.
For budget-conscious Brits looking for an adventure that won't break the bank, the data presents a compelling case. By looking beyond traditional European getaways, travellers can discover rich cultural experiences and incredible value in destinations like Hanoi, where the cost of a simple evening out is less than a standard pub meal back home.
