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hmong hilltribe woman in beautiful costume dress Laos

Embarking on a journey to Laos? 

Discover the best way to get Lao kip online!

Prepare for your unforgettable adventure in Laos with Manor FX. We’ve got your Lao kip needs taken care of so you can easily dive into your journey. 

Our excellent exchange rates mean you’ll have more kip in your pocket, making your trip even better.

Choose to have your Lao kip banknotes delivered securely to your home or office. Alternatively, pop by our convenient Manor FX bureau near Heathrow for a swift pickup.

Benefit from our rapid delivery services and our super user-friendly online ordering system. Change your GBP to Laos kip now!

Lao kip travel money

Go on your Laos adventure well-prepared. Get handy Laos travel tips, including information on Laos money and payment methods to prepare you for your trip.

Can you buy Laos kip in the UK? 

Laos kip aren’t commonly found at traditional banks for the Post Office

However, you can easily purchase Lao kip online through our website.

Buy your lao kip now

Village and bungalows along Nam Song River in Vang Vieng, Laos.

Where can I buy Laos kip? 

You might find currency exchange kiosks at airports. But remember, convenience often comes with poor exchange rates. 

For better value, online platforms like ours are your best bet.

Should you exchange money before travelling to Laos?

Definitely. Having Lao kip in your wallet is super helpful for small purchases and immediate needs upon arrival. 

Plus, you get better control over the Lao kip exchange rate, shielding you from less favourable airport rates.

What’s the best currency to take to Laos?

Having US dollars (USD) and Lao kip is smart when planning your Laos trip. 

USD is handy for larger transactions, while Lao kip, the official currency, is essential for smaller purchases and local markets.

Buffet Street food to try in Luang Prabang, Laos

Can you use your debit or credit card in Laos? 

Yes, but cash reigns supreme in Laos. It’s a largely cash-based society, so understanding the nuances of card payments is key. 

You might find card acceptance in major cities in international hotels and upscale stores. Generally, local vendors often prefer cash.

Can you avoid ATM feed in Laos?

Absolutely, you can avoid or reduce ATM fees in Laos with a few smart strategies:

  • Use ATMs sparingly. Try to reduce the number of times you use ATMs. Each transaction typically includes fees, so fewer transactions mean fewer charges.
  • Larger withdrawals. When you do use an ATM, withdraw more significant amounts. To reduce the frequency of transactions and, as a result, the fees. But remember, it’s important to keep your cash secure.
  • Bank partnerships. Before you leave for Laos, check with your bank to see if they have partnerships with any banks in Laos. Some banks arrange lower fees or free withdrawals at partner ATMs.
  • Notify your bank. Inform your bank about your travel plans. This helps prevent your card from being blocked for suspicious overseas activity. It also lets you ask about their tips for using ATMs abroad, particularly in Laos.
  • Understand the fees. Be aware of your bank’s fees for international ATM use and currency conversion. This way, you can make more informed decisions about how much money to withdraw each time.

Following these tips, you can keep your ATM fees in Laos as low as possible.

Should I bring cash to Laos? 

Absolutely! Cash is king in Laos; most vendors only accept cash. 

You’ll often find payments accepted in US dollars, Lao kip, and sometimes Thai baht.

Remember to exchange Laos kip to pounds when you return.

Patuxai literally meaning Victory Gate in Vientiane,Laos

Is Laos expensive for tourists?

Laos is generally considered an affordable destination for tourists, especially when compared to Western countries. 

The cost of living in Laos is relatively low, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travellers. Here are a few points to consider:

Accommodation

You can find budget-friendly options, like guesthouses, hostels, and more luxurious hotels. Prices vary, but budget accommodations can be very reasonable.

Food and drink

Local food is inexpensive, especially when you eat at street markets or local eateries. Western food and dining in more upscale restaurants will cost more.

A coffee might cost about 15,000 KIP (around £1.20 based on the current Lao kip to GBP rate).

A meal in a mid-range restaurant could be about 70,000 KIP per person (approximately £5.60). Laos offers a mix of unforgettable experiences at wallet-friendly prices.

Transportation

Local transport, like tuk-tuks and buses, is usually cheap. However, hiring private vehicles or taking longer journeys can increase costs.

Attractions

Many natural attractions are free or have a small entrance fee. Guided tours and activities like trekking or river cruises will add to your expenses.

Shopping

Local markets offer affordable souvenirs and crafts. As with any tourist destination, prices in more tourist-centric areas may be higher.

The total cost will depend on your travel style, preferences, and the activities you choose to do.

Waterfalls in Laos

How much money do you need for a week in Laos?

  • Budget traveller: £150 to £200 (1,940,000 to 2,590,000 Lao kip) should cover basic accommodation, local food, and transport.
  • Mid-range traveller: £300 to £500 (3,880,000 to 6,470,000 LAK) for a comfortable stay with diverse dining and activities.
  • Premium traveller: £700 or more (9,060,000 LAK) for luxury accommodations, gourmet dining, and exclusive experiences.

How does tipping work in Laos

Tipping isn’t a strict practice, but a tip of around 10% is standard for good service. Avoid leaving coins as tips; paper currency is more appreciated. 

Tipping is a small yet meaningful way to show gratitude.

Wat xiang thong,temples in Laos

Buy your lao kip now

Lao kip currency

Lao kip banknotes

Lao kip notes come in various denominations, including 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, 100,000, and 200,000 KIP. These notes feature designs reflecting Laos’ culture and history.

Lao kip coins

Lao kip coins, available in denominations like 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 LAK, are a legal part of Laos’ currency.

However, they’re rarely used in daily transactions because of their low value and the convenience of banknotes. 

Coins carry cultural and historical designs. However, they are often seen as collectables or souvenirs rather than practical currency for everyday use.

Laos currency import and export regulations

There are no specific limits on currency import/export in Laos. However, declare amounts over $10,000 to avoid issues.

Ordering Lao kip online:

Order Lao kip with ease at Manor FX. Choose swift, secure delivery or collect near Heathrow. 

Exchange your pounds to Laos kip now for a hassle-free experience. Get your Lao kip from Manor FX today and start your unique Laos experience!

Selling back Lao kip:

Are you looking to sell Lao kip UK? We buy back Lao kip. Follow our link to convert Laos kip to GBP. Click ‘Sell Currency’, select ‘LAK Lao kip’, and benefit from our competitive rates.

Street food in Luang Prabang, Laos

FAQs

What food is popular in Laos?

Laos cuisine is known for its unique flavours and use of fresh ingredients. Here are some popular dishes you might encounter:

 

  • Laap (or Larb). Often considered the national dish of Laos. Laap is a salad made with minced meat (chicken, beef, duck, or fish) mixed with lime juice, chilli, and fresh herbs. Laap is a flavorful dish, sometimes served with sticky rice.
  • Sticky Rice (Khao niew). A staple in Lao meals, sticky rice is eaten with almost everything. Usually rolled into small balls with your fingers and dipped into sauces or used to scoop up other dishes.
  • Tam Mak Hoong (Papaya salad). This spicy salad is made with shredded green papaya, garlic, chillies, lime juice, and fish sauce and sometimes includes tomatoes and crab.
  • Khao piak sen. A traditional Lao noodle soup, often eaten for breakfast. Made with rice noodles, chicken or beef, and a rich, flavorful broth garnished with herbs and lime.
  • Sai Oua (Lao sausage). These grilled sausages packed with herbs and spices give them a distinctive and delicious flavour.
  • Mok Pa (Fish steamed in banana leaves). A fragrant dish where fish is seasoned with herbs and spices, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.

Laos cuisine is diverse and flavorful, often characterised by its use of fresh herbs, fish sauce, and a balance of spicy, sour, sweet, and bitter flavours.

Is it safe to travel to Laos now?

Laos is generally considered a safe destination for travellers. However, the safety of travel can vary over time.

Here are some general considerations for safety in Laos:

  • Crime. Laos is typically low in violent crime. Like any tourist destination, it can have petty crimes like pickpocketing or theft. Take standard precautions, such as safeguarding your belongings and being aware of your surroundings.
  • Health. Make sure to check any health advisories or vaccination requirements. Also, practice good hygiene and be cautious with food and water to avoid common travel-related illnesses.
  • Local laws and customs. Familiarise yourself with local laws and customs to avoid unintentional offences or legal troubles.
  • Travel advisories. Before travelling, checking your government’s travel advisories for the most current information is a good idea.
  • Travel insurance. Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, theft, and travel disruptions is always recommended.

Do I need a visa to enter Laos?

As a UK national, you generally need a visa to enter Laos. However, the process is relatively straightforward:

  • Visa on arrival. UK nationals can typically obtain a visa on arrival in Laos. This visa is usually valid for up to 30 days.
  • Requirements. To get a visa on arrival, you will need a passport valid for at least six months beyond your entry date. You’ll also need a passport-sized photo and a visa fee.
  • eVisa option. Laos also offers an eVisa service, allowing you to apply for a visa online before your trip. This can be a convenient way to handle visa requirements before travel.

What injections do I need for Laos?

For travel to Laos, it’s recommended to be up-to-date with routine vaccinations like (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, chickenpox, polio, and your yearly flu shot. 

Additional recommended vaccines include hepatitis A and typhoid because of risks from contaminated food or water. Depending on your travel activities and locations, vaccines for hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, and rabies might also be advised. 

Consult with a doctor well in advance of your trip for personalised advice.

When should I go to Laos?

The best time to visit Laos depends on the weather and the experience you’re looking for. 

The most popular time to go is during the dry season, which runs from November to February.

The weather is cooler and more comfortable during this period, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. 

The landscapes are lush and green following the rainy season, which adds to the country’s beauty.

If you’re interested in experiencing local festivals, consider timing your visit with events like the Lao New Year (Pi Mai Lao) in April, celebrated with water festivals across the country. However, remember that this is also the hottest time of the year.

The rainy season, from May to October, sees fewer tourists and can be a good time to visit if you prefer a quieter experience. The rains usually come in short bursts and can be quite refreshing, though they may affect travel to more remote areas.

Each season offers a unique experience, so the best time to visit Laos depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to enjoy.


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Get
Lao Kip Fast!

  • Free home delivery over £750
  • with Royal Mail Special Delivery 1pm
  • Better rates than the banks
You exchange:
£
You get:
Rate:
You exchange:
You get:
£
Rate: