What Currency Does Laos Use?
Facts last checked 31 August 2026.
Exchange rate (approximate):
1 USD ≈ 22,291 LAK
1 GBP ≈ 29,883 LAK
Rates are indicative (July 2026) and change daily. Always check live rates before travelling. Rates by Exchange Rate API.
Travel Money Card
Travelling to Laos? Avoid poor airport exchange rates — a prepaid travel money card or multi-currency card usually gets you a far better deal on Lao kip spending.
What is money called in Laos?
Money in Laos is called the Lao kip — its ISO 4217 currency code is LAK, and its symbol is ₭. The Lao kip is the official legal tender in Laos and is used for all everyday transactions — from paying for goods and services to converting money at banks and exchange bureaus. When travelling, you may also see it referred to as the Laos currency or simply money in Laos.
Is the Lao kip used anywhere else?
No — Laos is the only country on this site using the Lao kip as its official currency.
Practical money tips for Laos
Card payments are widely accepted in most cities, but it's still worth carrying some Lao kip in cash for smaller vendors, local transport and rural areas. Notify your bank before travelling to avoid transactions being blocked, and compare card fees — many cards charge a foreign transaction fee that a dedicated travel money card avoids.
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Money essentials for Laos
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Laos currency — FAQ
What is the currency of Laos?
The currency of Laos is the Lao kip (currency code: LAK, symbol: ₭).
What is the currency code for Laos?
The ISO 4217 currency code for the Lao kip is LAK.
What is the Lao kip symbol?
The symbol for the Lao kip is ₭. You will see this on price tags and receipts throughout Laos.
What currency is used in Laos?
The official currency used in Laos is the Lao kip (LAK).
Can I use US dollars in Laos?
The official currency of Laos is the Lao kip, not the US dollar. While USD may be accepted in some tourist hotels and major cities, you will generally get better rates paying in Lao kip and should exchange money before or on arrival.
What is the exchange rate for Laos?
As of July 2026, approximately 1 USD = 22,291 LAK and 1 GBP = 29,883 LAK. Rates change daily — always check a live source before travelling or sending money.
What is money called in Laos?
Money in Laos is called the Lao kip (LAK).
Do other countries use the Lao kip?
No — Laos is the only country on this site using the Lao kip as its official currency.
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