Laos
The practical basics before you go: plugs, emergency numbers, money, tipping and the time.
The country in brief
About 7.87 million people live in Laos, on 236,800 km². The capital is Vientiane.
- Capital
- Vientiane
- Population
- 7,873,046
- Area
- 236,800 km²
- Official languages
- Lao
Facts change, so check the important things before you travel.
Population: World Bank, 2025 (CC BY 4.0). Capital, area and languages: Wikidata. Facts fetched October 30, 2026.
Before you go
Which plugs are used in Laos?
Sockets take plug type A/B/C/E/F, at 230 V and 50 Hz.
What is the emergency number in Laos?
Call 191 for the police, 195 for an ambulance and 190 for the fire brigade.
Do you tip in Laos?
Round up, or leave small change.
Which side of the road do they drive on in Laos?
Traffic drives on the right.
What currency is used in Laos?
Prices are in Laotian Kip (LAK).
What language do they speak in Laos?
Official languages: Lao.
How do I call a number in Laos from abroad?
To call a number there from abroad, start with +856.
Entry rules and travel advice
Visa rules depend on your passport and can change at short notice. Your own government keeps them up to date, so check its advice before you book.
Links checked October 30, 2026.
