Culture
Li Xi (Lucky Money): The Fascinating Story & Guide for Expats
When the streets turn red and gold, it means Lì Xì season is here. Those little red envelopes are more than decoration; they are a complex web of social currency.
We break down the legend and the rules in this guide. For the rest of your holiday logistics—routes, food, and repairs—consult The Ultimate Guide to Riding Vietnam During Tet.
What is Li Xi?
Lì Xì (pronounced lee-see) essentially means “lucky money.”
During the first few days of the Lunar New Year, adults give these red envelopes to children and elders. It is also known as Tiền Mừng Tuổi (money to congratulate the new age), because traditionally, Vietnamese people did not celebrate individual birthdays. Instead, everyone turns one year older together on New Year’s Day.
The money inside is symbolic. The red envelope represents luck, prosperity, and the warding off of evil spirits for the coming year.
The Legend of the Ogre “Tuy”
Why do we do this? Like many Vietnamese customs, there is an ancient legend behind it.
Once upon a time, all the evil spirits on Earth were trapped inside a giant peach blossom tree in the Eastern Sea, guarded by deities. However, on New Year’s Eve, the deities had to ascend to Heaven to pay their respects, leaving the tree unguarded.
An evil ogre named Tuy escaped. He would sneak into houses and rub the heads of sleeping children, causing them to wake up screaming with high fevers. Parents were terrified and had to stay awake all night to guard their little ones.
One year, eight deities passed through a village and saw the parents’ distress. They transformed themselves into eight gold coins. The villagers wrapped these coins in red cloth and placed them under the children’s pillows. When Tuy came to harass the children, the flash of gold from the red cloth blinded him and drove him away.
The news spread, and the tradition was born: putting money in red paper to protect children and bring them luck.
Etiquette: The Do’s and Don’ts
As a foreigner, you aren’t expected to know every rule, but following these tips will earn you massive respect from your Vietnamese friends.
1. The “Crisp Note” Rule
This is the most important rule. Never use old, torn, or crinkled money.
New Year represents a fresh start. Giving dirty money is considered bad luck. In the weeks leading up to Tet, you will see locals lining up at banks to exchange old notes for brand-new, crisp bills.
Tip: If you can’t get to a bank, try to withdraw from an ATM early in the season and save the newest-looking notes.
2. Use Both Hands
When giving or receiving an envelope, always use two hands. This shows respect.
3. Don’t Look Inside (Yet)
If you receive an envelope, do not open it in front of the giver. This is considered very rude, as it implies you care more about the money than the sentiment. Put it in your pocket and open it later in private.
4. Avoid the Number 4
In Vietnamese culture, the number 4 (bốn or tư) sounds like the word for death (tử). Avoid giving amounts like 40,000 or 400,000 VND.
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The “How Much” Cheat Sheet (2026 Edition)
One of the biggest sources of anxiety for expats is knowing how much to put in the envelope. While it really is “the thought that counts,” here are some standard ranges to help you navigate the holiday.
| Who are they? | Suggested Amount (VND) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Close Friend’s Kids | 50,000 – 100,000 | The standard “lucky” amount. 2 x 50k |
| Family / Best Friends | 200,000 – 500,000 | For people you are very close to |
| Acquiantances’ Kids | 10,000 – 20,000 | Symbolic only (neighbours, distant relatives) |
| Security Guards / Cleaners | 50,000 – 100,000 | Symbolic only and not to be confused with 13th month salary |
| Elders (Grandparents) | 100,000 – 300,000 | Wishing the longevity and health |
Note: 50,000 VND notes are often preferred because they are red—the color of luck!
Essential Tet Phrases (With Pronunciation)
Before you hand over the envelope, it is customary to offer a “Wish.” Here is how to say them:
Happy New Year:
- Vietnamese: Chúc Mừng Năm Mới
- Pronunciation: “Chook Mung Nam Moy”
Wishing you good health (Great for elders):
- Vietnamese: Sức Khỏe Dồi Dào
- Pronunciation: “Sook Kwey Zoy Zow”
Money flowing in like water (Great for business owners):
- Vietnamese: Tiền Vô Như Nước
- Pronunciation: “Tien Voh Nuh Nu-uhk”
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As a foreigner, will giving Li Xi be seen as cultural appropriation?
Absolutely not! Vietnamese people generally love it when foreigners embrace their traditions. It is seen as a sign of warmth, respect, and integration into the local culture. Don’t worry about getting it “perfect”—the gesture itself is what matters.
What if I don’t have a red envelope? Can I just give cash?
It is highly recommended to use an envelope. Handing over loose cash is considered a bit crude and lacks the “lucky” symbolism of the red paper (which wards off evil spirits). Envelopes are sold on almost every street corner in January, so grab a pack!
Can I give foreign currency (like USD)?
Yes, giving a $2 bill (USD) is actually considered very lucky and unique! The $2 bill is rare and many Vietnamese people keep them in their wallets for good fortune. Just make sure the bill is crisp and not torn.
If someone gives my child Li Xi, do I need to give their child one back?
Yes, this is the standard reciprocity. If you are visiting a family with kids, it is wise to have a few pre-filled envelopes in your pocket just in case. If you are caught unprepared, you can simply apologize and give it to them next time you see them, but being prepared is better!
Are digital “e-Li Xi” transfers acceptable?
They are becoming popular, especially among Gen Z and friends who live far apart. Apps like MoMo or bank transfers even have special Tet themes. However, for children and elders, the physical act of handing over the red envelope with two hands is still the preferred and most respectful method.
Tet Travel & Safety: Read This Before You Ride
While the days leading up to Tet are chaotic with traffic, the actual days of the holiday (The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd days of Lunar New Year) are magical. The cities empty out, and the streets of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City become quiet and peaceful.
It is a fantastic time to rent a motorbike and explore the city without the usual noise and congestion. However, there is one major risk you must be aware of.
⚠️ The “Happy Water” Warning During Tet ⚠️
Alcohol consumption increases significantly. “Happy water” (rice wine) and beer flow freely at every home.
- Ride Defensively: Even if the roads look empty, be hyper-aware at intersections. Other riders may be returning from a family party and may be intoxicated.
- Zero Tolerance: Vietnamese police often set up checkpoints during Tet. Vietnam has a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol. Even one beer can lead to a fine of up to 8 million VND and the confiscation of your bike and license.
- Our Advice: If you toast with your friends, take a Grab home. Save the riding for the morning when the air is fresh and the roads are safe.
Read more about dealing with traffic stops in our guide: [Police in Vietnam – 4 Useful Tips]
Rentals Closing Schedule: Please note: Our shop will be closed for the main holidays. If you want a bike for the break, please pick it up before 16th Feb, 2026.
Check out our Monthly Expat Rentals for a reliable bike
See our Manual Bikes for a Tet Adventure