Have you ever thought about visiting Vietnam? It’s a beautiful place, but many people are surprised when they see how much it costs to fly there. The high prices can make some people change their minds about going.
There are many reasons why are flights to Vietnam so expensive. In this post, I’ll talk about these reasons in a way that’s easy to understand. If you’re planning your first trip to Vietnam knowing about flight costs can help you plan better.
Let’s get started!
Understanding the Average Cost of Flights
The average cost of flying to Vietnam from the United States depends on several factors, including your departure city, airline, and travel dates.
As of September 2024, here’s what you need to know:
A typical round-trip flight from the U.S. to Vietnam costs around $438. However, there are cheaper options. For instance, flights from Guam to Hanoi can be as low as $440 for late September to early October. September is usually the most affordable month to fly to Vietnam.
During this time, one-way flights to Ho Chi Minh City average about $1,210. October also offers lower prices, although specific figures aren’t always available. Flight costs vary by destination. For instance, flights from Los Angeles to Ho Chi Minh City can be found for as low as $270 one-way and $773 round-trip.
Flights to Da Nang from Guam start around $475. The fastest flights to Vietnam usually leave from the west coast of the U.S. For instance, a flight from San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City takes about 15 hours and 40 minutes.
Airlines like EVA Air, Korean Air, and Delta fly to Vietnam, but budget airlines often provide lower fares. Choosing a budget airline can help you save money.
In short, current data shows that round-trip flights to Vietnam start around $438. Traveling in September and selecting cost-effective routes can help you find the best deals.
7 Key Reasons Why Are Flights to Vietnam So Expensive
Reason #1: Travel Demand and Seasonality
One of the main reasons flights to Vietnam are so expensive is high travel demand and seasonal factors. Interest in traveling to Vietnam, especially to cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, has surged significantly. This increased demand has driven up flight prices. The recovery in travel since the pandemic has intensified this trend, making flights more expensive due to heightened interest.
Certain times of the year, such as autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May), also see higher prices. During these peak travel seasons, the pleasant weather in Vietnam attracts more tourists, leading airlines to charge more. Additionally, special events like the Mid-Autumn Festival in Hoi An draw large crowds, further increasing flight costs during these festive periods.
Reason # 2: Flight Distance and Routes
Another major reason of flight being expensive to Vietnam is the distance and the routes involved.
Flights from far-off places like North America or Europe are costly because of the long travel distance. For instance, flying from the U.S. to Vietnam takes around 22 hours and 47 minutes, covering about 8,413 miles. A popular route, such as from Los Angeles to Ho Chi Minh City, usually takes about 19 hours and 25 minutes.
Non-stop flights are more convenient but tend to be more expensive due to their limited availability. Also, Vietnam Airlines offers non-stop flights from San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City, but such direct options are not available from all U.S. cities.
One-stop flights are more common and might be cheaper. Airlines like ANA and JAL offer one-stop flights via Tokyo, while EVA Air and China Airlines connect through Taipei. Vietnam Airlines and China Eastern provide one-stop flights from Los Angeles and San Francisco, and United Airlines offers similar services from Washington, DC, and New York City.
The choice of airport can also affect costs. Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City is the busiest and serves many international flights. Noi Bai Airport (HAN) in Hanoi is the main airport for the capital, while Da Nang Airport (DAD) is used for central Vietnam. Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) requires connecting flights from Ho Chi Minh City.
Reason #3: Airline Pricing and Competition
The airline you choose can have a big effect on how much you pay for a flight to Vietnam.
Major airlines, like Vietnam Airlines, usually charge higher prices. These airlines include various services in the ticket price, such as meals, checked baggage, and better seating, which can make the flights more expensive.
On the other hand, budget airlines like Vietjet often have lower initial fares. However, they may add extra fees for services like checked baggage, seat selection, and in-flight food. These extra costs can add up quickly and may offset the savings you get from the lower fare.
In addition to the base fare, consider the total cost of the flight, including any additional fees. This can help you choose the best option based on what services you need and how much you’re willing to spend.
Reason # 4: Airport Fees and Taxes
Airport fees and taxes are a key factor in why flights to Vietnam are expensive. These fees vary based on the airport and include charges like security fees, passenger service fees, and local taxes, all of which contribute to the total cost of a flight. The departure tax for international flights from major airports such as Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) and Hanoi (HAN) is USD 14, while Da Nang (DAD) charges USD 12. These fees are typically not included in the flight ticket, so passengers must pay them separately at the airport, usually in cash.
Additionally, Vietnam applies an Environmental Protection Tax on jet fuel, currently set at VND 1,000 per liter, which indirectly raises airfare costs. This tax supports sustainability efforts but impacts ticket prices. On top of that, Vietnam’s VAT has been reduced to 8% in 2024, which could have a slight effect on travel-related costs, though rising operational expenses have still caused airfare to increase.
Reason # 5: Economic Factors and Exchange Rates
Economic factors and exchange rates play a big role in how much flights to Vietnam cost. When the value of the U.S. dollar goes up compared to the Vietnamese dong, airlines must pay more for things like fuel and aircraft leasing, which are often priced in dollars. For instance, in 2024, the dollar strengthened by 5% against the dong, which forced airlines to increase fares to cover their rising expenses. This means travelers are paying more for flights.
Vietnam is also dealing with inflation, which is expected to be around 4.0% to 4.5% in 2024. This inflation increases the cost of services and goods, including airline operations like fuel and staffing. Airlines, in turn, pass these higher costs on to passengers. As a result, Vietnam Airlines raised its ticket prices by 14-20% between late 2023 and early 2024.
Additionally, the cost of flying to Vietnam has become higher compared to nearby countries like Thailand, where lower inflation and stable exchange rates have helped keep airfares more affordable. These economic pressures directly affect flight prices, making it more expensive to travel to Vietnam.
Reason # 5: Impact of Airline Choice
The airline you choose can greatly affect your flight costs to Vietnam. International airlines such as EVA Air, United, and ANA generally have higher fares. For instance, EVA Air’s flights from Los Angeles to Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang can range from $865 to $1,512. United Airlines starts at around $1,055, while ANA fares begin at $1,041.50 and can go up to $2,053 on some routes. These airlines often offer additional services and amenities, which contribute to the higher costs.
On the other hand, local Vietnamese airlines like Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways usually offer cheaper flights. You can find one-way fares starting from $39 with Vietnam Airlines, $48 with VietJet Air, and $56 with Bamboo Airways. These lower fares make flights more affordable but might offer fewer services compared to international carriers.
Vietnam’s flight market is mainly controlled by Vietnam Airlines and VietJet Air, which limits competition and keeps prices higher. In countries like Thailand, where more airlines operate, prices tend to be lower, even during busy times. Vietnam Airlines is expanding its routes to Europe and Southeast Asia, which might increase competition and help lower fares in the future.
Additionally, using miles or points from programs like Delta SkyMiles can help you find cheaper flights. Delta’s partnerships with airlines like China Airlines, Korean Air, and XiamenAir can offer better deals and routing options. These partnerships can make long-haul flights more affordable, especially if you book with rewards or during special promotions.
Reason # 6: Fuel Prices
Fuel prices around the world significantly affect the cost of flights. When fuel prices increase, airlines face higher costs for operating their planes. These higher costs are often passed on to passengers, leading to more expensive tickets. This is a global issue that impacts all regions, including Vietnam.
Rising fuel prices lead to increased operational expenses for airlines, such as fuel for flights and maintenance costs. Airlines have to adjust their pricing to cover these added expenses. As a result, travelers see higher ticket prices. In Vietnam, like everywhere else, this means that fluctuations in global fuel prices contribute to the overall cost of flying.
The rise in fuel costs has a direct impact on airfares, making it an important reason why flights to Vietnam can be more expensive.
Reason # 7: Additional Services
Additional services can make your flight to Vietnam more expensive. Travelers need to keep these extra costs in mind when planning their trip.
Airlines often charge extra fees for checked baggage. These fees can range from $30 to $70 per bag, depending on the airline and the route. In addition, some airlines charge for in-flight services like meals, snacks, and entertainment. If you need a SIM card for your phone, buying one at the airport or through the airline can also add to your expenses.
These additional costs can quickly add up, so it’s important to include them in your travel budget. Always review the airline’s policies on extra charges before you book your flight to avoid any surprises.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, flights to Vietnam are costly for many reasons. These include lots of people wanting to go, long flight distances, and high fuel prices. But don’t worry! You can still plan a great trip if you’re smart about it. Try to fly when fewer people are traveling, look at different airlines, and watch out for extra fees. Vietnam is a beautiful place, and it’s worth the effort to visit. Start planning your trip now! Look for good deals and use airline points if you can.
With some careful planning, you can make your dream trip to Vietnam come true without spending too much. Ready to start your Vietnamese adventure? Begin your journey today by comparing flight options and booking your tickets. Your unforgettable experience in Vietnam is just a click away!
