What's on your mind before you go?

Visa and Mastercard cards issued outside Russia (including in Vietnam) don't work there: no card payments, no ATM withdrawals, and Apple Pay and Google Pay don't work either.

• Bring cash: US dollars or euros in new, undamaged, unmarked notes; exchange them for roubles at banks in Russia (safer than small exchange booths). Under the equivalent of US$10,000 per person does not need a customs declaration.
• UnionPay cards (if your bank issues them): accepted at many hotels and large stores, but not everywhere.
• Mir card: Russia's domestic card; some Russian banks can open one with your passport (requirements vary).
• Book hotels, flights and tours before you go on sites that accept international cards, to reduce the cash you need to carry.
• Budget carefully and bring about 20–30% extra, as you can't withdraw more if you run short.

Beware of "rouble exchange" or "money transfer" services advertised on social media; only exchange at banks.