I might have to spend some time over the border in Laos. What do people recommend as a good way of getting some Kip - taking baht and exchanging or using a Wise card for ATM withdrawals, or another way ?

When I was there there were money changers standing on the street, offer kip as you walk by

When  I went to Laos  a good few years ago for a Thai  Non-O visa  they liked Thai Baht very much   take smaller denominations..the small vendors gave  change in kip..I didn't go to any mega stores as I don't think there were any ? perhaps now they all want QR codes  ? 

 

Take Thai Baht since all shops and vendors will accept and return change in Kip. Send the kip as soon as possible because it is not with anything outside Laos.

Thai QR payment also works in many places, useful as a backup if running low on cash.

Withdraw Kip from an ATM or over the counter at  bank 

Just like Thailand .

Paying in Baht and you will get  bad exchange rate