Card keeps getting declined in Fiji?

Card rejection is very common in Laos. Even in tourist hubs like Luang Prabang, many cafés and guesthouses only took cash. ATMs exist everywhere but can be hit-or-miss-BCEL seemed most reliable. Withdraw enough kip in advance, as fees and limits mean frequent trips to the ATM. For budgeting, 400,000-500,000 LAK daily covers food, tuk-tuks, and sightseeing like waterfalls and caves. Don’t depend on cards for rural travel. Always have cash reserves-it makes life easier in Laos.

When I travelled in Laos, both ATMs and shops regularly refused my card. Mastercard barely worked, but my Visa went through at ACLEDA Bank ATMs in Vientiane. Night markets, minivan tickets, and temples required cash without exception. If you plan daily spending on meals, beer, and transport, budget about 350,000 LAK. For excursions like the Plain of Jars or boat rides, keep extra. Bring USD as backup-many exchange places give fair rates. Card reliability is low, especially in rural Laos.

Laos is still very cash-heavy. I had trouble with my card in Luang Prabang-three ATMs declined it before a BCEL machine finally worked. Stores and restaurants almost always asked for kip, except for a few hotels that accepted Visa. Budget around 400,000 LAK per day for meals, river cruises, and attractions. ATM fees are high (20,000-40,000 LAK per withdrawal), so take larger sums. Always keep spare cash since rejection is common, especially outside the main tourist towns.

In Laos, ATMs often reject international cards. BCEL and Lao Development Bank machines in Vientiane usually worked for me, but in smaller towns like Vang Vieng and Pakse I had repeated failures. Most shops, tuk-tuk drivers, and night markets only take cash, so plan to carry kip. For budgeting, expect around 350,000-500,000 LAK per day for food, buses, and entry to places like Kuang Si Falls. Don’t wait until rural areas to withdraw-city ATMs are more reliable.