Like in Vietnam or in Cambodia, local people and tourists prefer to use cash. The Kip is the currency of Laos. There are banknotes of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 500 kips. In 2019, one USD is worth 8,890 kips. Even if some big hotels or shops tend to accept bank cards, we advise you to always keep the kip banknotes on you.
In big cities like Luang Prabang, Vientiane or Pakse, you can find very easy change offices. In remote areas or in mountainous regions, it's a bit difficult. ATMs are also found in major cities, that allow you to withdrawal cash with your MasterCard and Visa, for a 3% commission.