Vietnam is an incredible country – full of stunning landscapes, fascinating history, vibrant culture, and mouth-watering food. To make the most of your adventure, being prepared is key. These 25 essential Vietnam travel tips cover everything from practicalities and safety to culture and etiquette, helping you navigate the country like a pro. Consider this your checklist of things to know before visiting Vietnam!
1. Check Visa Requirements Early: Don't leave your Vietnam visa to the last minute. Check if your nationality qualifies for visa exemption (many European/Asian countries get 15-45 days). If not, or for longer stays, apply for the Vietnam E-visa (up to 90 days) well in advance via the official government website.
2. Get Comprehensive Travel Insurance: This is non-negotiable. Ensure your policy covers medical emergencies (including evacuation), trip cancellation, and potential motorbike accidents (check specific license requirements in the policy).
3. Know the Best Time to Visit (Regionally): Vietnam's weather varies significantly. North is best in Spring (Mar-Apr) & Autumn (Sep-Nov). Central coast shines Feb-Aug. South is great Dec-Apr. Plan accordingly or aim for shoulder seasons for a good mix.
4. Book Ahead for Peak Season & Tet: If travelling during peak times (e.g., Dec-Mar, Jul-Aug) or the Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year - late Jan/early Feb), book flights, accommodation, and popular tours well in advance as things sell out and prices rise.
5. Allow Plenty of Travel Time: Vietnam is long! Don't try to cram too much in. Factor in travel time between destinations (flights, overnight trains/buses) – it often takes longer than you think. Focus on fewer regions for shorter trips.
6. Vietnamese Dong (VND) is King: While USD might be accepted in some tourist spots, you'll need VND for most transactions, especially local eateries and markets. Exchange money at banks or reputable gold shops for better rates than airports. ATMs are widespread in cities.
7. Master Respectful Bargaining: Haggling is common in markets and with some street vendors. Keep it friendly, smile, and be prepared to walk away if the price isn't right. Don't haggle in restaurants or shops with fixed prices.
8. Understand Budgeting: Vietnam is very affordable. Street food meals cost $1-$3, local beer under $1, hostel beds $5-$15. Set a daily Vietnam travel budget based on your style (backpacker ~$25-35/day, comfort budget ~$40-60/day).
9. Drink Only Bottled or Filtered Water: Tap water is not safe to drink. Buy sealed bottled water or use a reliable water filter bottle. Be cautious with ice outside reputable establishments.
10. Eat Street Food Smartly: Vietnamese food is a highlight! Choose busy street food stalls with high turnover (a good sign of freshness) and where you can see food being cooked properly. Start slow if you have a sensitive stomach.
11. Beware of Traffic Chaos: Crossing the street, especially in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, requires confidence! Walk slowly and predictably, making eye contact with drivers – motorbikes will flow around you. Never assume pedestrians have the right of way. Avoid rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM).
12. Motorbike Safety is Paramount: Renting a motorbike? Ensure you have the correct license (International Driving Permit often needed) and experience. Always wear a quality helmet. Drive defensively and be aware that traffic rules are interpreted loosely. Consider Grab motorbikes for a safer alternative.
13. Protect Against Mosquitoes: Dengue fever is present. Use insect repellent, especially at dawn/dusk, and consider accommodation with mosquito nets or AC, particularly in rural or coastal areas. Consult your doctor about malaria prevention if visiting remote regions.
14. Check Vaccination Needs: Visit your doctor or a travel clinic 4-6 weeks before your trip. Recommended vaccinations often include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and ensuring routine jabs like Tetanus/Diphtheria are up to date. Japanese Encephalitis and Rabies might be considered depending on your itinerary/activities.
15. Be Aware of Common Scams: Stay vigilant against scams like rigged taxi meters, cyclo drivers changing the agreed price, aggressive shoe shiners, demands for payment after "free" photo ops with vendors, and money-switching tricks (know your banknotes!). Use reputable tour operators.
16. Secure Your Belongings: Petty theft (pickpocketing, phone/bag snatching from motorbikes) can occur in crowded areas and big cities. Keep valuables secure, wear bags cross-body away from the road, and don't flash expensive items. Use ATMs inside banks when possible.
17. Dress Modestly for Religious Sites: When visiting temples and pagodas, cover your shoulders and knees. Some places may offer scarves, but it's best to come prepared. Remove shoes before entering temples or someone's home.
18. Show Respect: Vietnamese culture values respect, especially towards elders. Use polite greetings (Xin chào - Hello, Cảm ơn - Thank you). Avoid public displays of affection. Don't touch anyone's head, and avoid pointing your feet at people or religious symbols.
19. Ask Before Taking Photos: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially ethnic minorities or in more private settings. Some may expect a small payment.
20. Understand "Saving Face": Avoid causing public embarrassment or confrontation. If you have an issue, address it calmly and privately.
21. Utilise Ride-Hailing Apps: Grab (and sometimes Be/Gojek) is invaluable for booking car and motorbike taxis in cities. Prices are fixed upfront, avoiding meter scams.
22. Consider Overnight Transport: Sleeper buses and trains are cost-effective ways to cover long distances and save on accommodation costs. Book berths/beds for more comfort.
23. Get a Local SIM Card: Easily purchased at airports or phone shops, local SIM cards offer very cheap data, essential for maps, translation, and booking apps. Viettel, Mobifone, and Vinaphone are major providers.
24. Download Useful Apps: Essential Vietnam travel tips include having the right apps: Grab, Google Maps (download offline maps!), Google Translate (with offline Vietnamese), XE Currency, Agoda/Booking.com (accommodation), Klook (tours/activities).
Embrace the Unexpected & Enjoy! Vietnam can be chaotic, vibrant, and sometimes challenging, but it's always an adventure. Be open-minded, go with the flow, smile often, try new things (especially the coffee!), and soak up the incredible experiences this country offers.
Following these tips for traveling Vietnam will help you navigate the country safely and respectfully, ensuring a memorable trip. Have an amazing time exploring!
Considering a hassle-free journey? Vielokal Travel offers expertly planned Vietnam package tours that take care of the details, letting you focus on the experience. Check out our itineraries!
