Laos
What this means for vanlife
Food in Laos is below the world average by 18%. Good for long-term van travel — grocery costs are noticeably lower than in most developed countries.
↑ Year-over-year change: +5.5% 2026
Index History
Based on World Bank ICP 2021, adjusted with IMF CPI
Compare with Laos
If you spend 100 at home:
Similar Countries
More countries in Asia
FAQ
Is food expensive in Laos?
No, food in Laos is cheap. The VanBasket Index is 82 (world average = 100), meaning food is 18% below the global average — great for budget travel.
How much should I budget for food in Laos per month?
If the world average monthly food spend is $300, in Laos you can expect to spend around $246. This is based on the VanBasket Index of 82 (world = 100).
How does Laos compare to similar countries?
Laos has a VanBasket Index of 82. Similar or nearby countries: Ghana, Russia, Azerbaijan.
How often is the food price data for Laos updated?
The index is updated monthly using IMF Consumer Price Index data. The baseline is from World Bank ICP 2021.