Laos Shopping and Saving Guide 2026: No Tax Refunds, Key on What Currency to Bring

Laos has no tourist tax refunds and no tourist discount activities

When travelling to Laos, do not expect tourist tax refunds or special discount activities. Laos has a VAT rate of 10%, but in reality, there are no details about tourist tax refunds on either the Ministry of Finance or the Tourism Authority websites. The only refund mechanism found is for exporters and does not apply to tourists. Furthermore, as of 2026, the government has not introduced any tourist discount activities, so there is no need to spend time looking for discount cards or coupons when shopping in Laos.

Kip depreciation and foreign exchange controls: what currency to bring

When travelling to Laos, handling money is an important issue. The kip has significantly depreciated in recent years, and although inflation dropped to 7.4% in June 2026, foreign exchange controls remain strict. In August 2026, the authorities tightened foreign exchange regulations, leading to most large transactions being conducted in US dollars. If you visit border areas, you may be charged in Thai baht, but the exchange rate is less favourable. Additionally, when withdrawing money from local ATMs, the limit is usually between 1 million and 3 million kip per transaction, with additional fees. These details are sourced from local media and travel information websites, not official announcements.

• Large transactions are usually charged in US dollars, while border areas accept Thai baht but with less favourable exchange rates.
• These details are sourced from local media and travel information websites, not official announcements.

Don’t rely on outdated guides: visa exemptions and activities have changed

If you have an old Laos travel guide, be sure to update the information. The Visit Laos Year 2024 campaign has ended, and from January 2025, the previous visa exemption arrangement was cancelled. By 2026, the official focus is on tourist arrival targets, with no new tourist promotional activities. So, always check the latest entry requirements before departure and don’t assume visa exemptions still apply.

• From January 2025, the previous visa exemption arrangement was cancelled.
• Always check the latest entry requirements before departure.

Shopping Malls: Vientiane Centre and Morning Market Mall have no tourist discounts

At Vientiane, if you plan to shop at Vientiane Centre or Morning Market Mall, remember that these places offer no tourist discounts. The official social media pages for Vientiane Centre are not accessible, and there are no reports of any promotions. Morning Market Mall mainly sells traditional textiles and groceries, and also has no tourist discounts. As for airport and border duty-free shops, although they may have some special items, there is no official information available, so there is no need to spend time looking for a tourist card.

• Airport and border duty-free shops have no official information available.
• This means there is no need to spend time looking for a tourist card.

Before going to Laos, sort out your internet access

Before going to Laos, it is essential to sort out your internet access. You will need a network for checking exchange rates, locating ATMs, and booking rides on the spot. It is recommended to install an eSIM before travelling to Laos, which can be activated immediately after payment, and the QR code will be sent via email. If you prefer a physical SIM card, you can opt for Hong Kong postal delivery. All plans and real-time prices can be found on the Laos destination page.