Money and tips

Lao currency is called KIP (One Euro equals about 11,000 Kip). The U.S. dollar is accepted almost everywhere in the cities as a means of payment, whether in restaurants or shops. However, to avoid fluctuating exchange rates, it is advisable to change your dollars or euros in local currency. The change is mainly in Vientiane, Luang Prabang and Pakse, banks (from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the offices are closed here early!)
Payment by credit card is accepted in major hotels and luxury boutiques, subject to levy an additional fee (around 4%). With a visa or MasterCard, you can withdraw kips in most banks or ATMs.

Tipping is common in the tourism sector in Laos but is not mandatory and vary the level of satisfaction of the provided services, the tips are usually given to guides, drivers, porters, bells in hotels. It is advisable not to give too small tips. It is better to give nothing than give a sum too small, which may offend.
This is the current practice of tipping for guides and drivers in Laos:
For a group of more than 4 people, the basic criterion is 2-3 USD per person per day for the guide and a half for the driver
For groups of less than 4 people, the basic criterion is 4 to USD per person per day for the guide and a half for the driver