24 Travel Tips for Vietnam You Must Know

Vietnam is one of those countries where having a handful of travel tips really goes a long way. For the most part, it’s an easy place to get around, but there are quirks worth knowing before you land.

Unlike Thailand, for example, English isn’t as widely spoken among the older generations, so you may need a bit more patience and creativity when communicating.

It’s also a place where you might experience a bit of culture shock; the traffic, the noise, and the way things operate can feel very different from what you’re used to. But that’s also the beauty of it.

Vietnam hasn’t lost the small traditions and everyday habits that make it unique. The blend of modern progress and traditional customs is what gives the country its character, and embracing that is one of the best aspects of visiting.

Go in with an open mind, and you’ll find Vietnam is one of the most rewarding countries to explore in Southeast Asia.

Essential Travel Tips for Vietnam

Don’t Underestimate Vietnam’s Size

This is one thing about Vietnam that reminds me a lot of Thailand: travelers often arrive thinking they can cover the entire country in just a week.

Then reality sets in: the distances are long, the transport connections take time, and suddenly they’re spending more hours on buses, trains, or planes than actually enjoying the country.

Don’t be that person cramming one or two days into every stop just to “see it all.” Vietnam stretches over 1,000 miles from north to south, and rushing through only leaves you exhausted.

Instead, pick one or two regions and slow down, like Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Ninh Binh in the north, or Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta in the south. If you’ve got more time, following a two week itinerary for Vietnam for first timers is a great way to balance north and south without feeling rushed.

Always Carry Cash

Vietnam is still very much a cash-based society. While cards are accepted at some hotels, higher-end restaurants, and malls, the majority of local markets, food stalls, and smaller shops run purely on cash.

Even in big cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll often find yourself needing Vietnamese dong (VND) for daily purchases.

Keep small denominations handy for taxis, street food, or quick convenience store stops, as many vendors won’t break large bills.

It’s also smart to carry a mix of notes in a money clip or separate wallet, so you’re not pulling out a huge stack every time you pay.

Understand the Weather Differences

When people think of Vietnam, they often envision constant heat and tropical humidity. That’s true for the south, but the north is a different story.

Hanoi, Sapa, and Ha Giang can get chilly, especially from December to February, with temperatures dropping to single digits at night.

Pack layers, a proper jacket, and even gloves if you plan to explore the mountains. Trust me, you don’t want to be shivering your way through Ha Long Bay or Sapa’s rice terraces.

Use Free ATM Withdrawals at VPBank & TPBank

Many ATMs in Vietnam charge high fees for foreign cards, sometimes as much as $5 per transaction.

The good news is that VPBank (green) and TPBank (purple) are exceptions; they allow free withdrawals for most international cards. You’ll spot their machines in major cities and tourist hubs.

Stick to ATMs located inside bank branches whenever possible, since they’re less likely to have skimmers. Although scams aren’t common, it’s good practice.

I personally withdraw cash using my Wise card once I’ve exchanged my local currency to VND, all within the app.

Avoid Last-Minute Hotel Bookings in Beach Towns

Vietnam’s beach towns, like Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc, are incredibly popular with both locals and international travelers, especially during weekends and holiday seasons.

If you wait until the last minute, you might either overpay or end up with limited choices far from the beach.

The smart move is to book your hotel or guesthouse in advance, particularly during peak travel months, which typically occur from December to February. You’ll lock in better rates, get a wider selection, and avoid the stress of scrambling once you arrive.

Plan Ahead if Visiting During Tet (Lunar New Year)

Tet, Vietnam’s Lunar New Year, is the country’s most important holiday, transforming daily life for at least a week. Trains, flights, and buses book up fast, prices spike, and many shops, restaurants, and even tours shut down as families return home to celebrate.

If you’re planning to visit Vietnam during Tet, reserve your transportation and accommodation well in advance, and don’t expect everything to run as usual.

When I first traveled to Vietnam years ago, I’ll admit I panicked as Tet was approaching. I kept reading online that everything would be closed, that I’d need to stock up on food, and that the country basically shut down.

I even considered buying groceries and cooking at home to get through a few days. But the reality on the ground was much less dramatic. I was in Da Nang at the time.

While some businesses were closed, many restaurants remained open, charging a small holiday surcharge as staff worked during this significant family holiday. It made perfect sense, and it wasn’t the crisis I had built up in my head.

That said, closures and disruptions vary depending on your location. In Hanoi and the north, where traditions are more conservative, things tend to slow down noticeably. In central and southern Vietnam, the impact is lighter: some closures, some slower operations, but overall, you’ll still find plenty of options.

So if you’re traveling during Tet, don’t let the horror stories online scare you. Plan your essentials, be ready for higher demand on transport and accommodation, and expect a slightly different rhythm in daily life.

In return, you’ll also get to experience one of the most beautiful cultural celebrations in Vietnam, streets filled with decorations, families exchanging gifts, and a festive spirit that feels a bit like Christmas in the West.

Getting Around Vietnam

Ignore Fake Grab Drivers at the Airport

When you land in Vietnam, especially at busy airports like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll likely be approached by people claiming to be your Grab driver.

They’ll often say “Grab, Grab!” to get your attention, but if the license plate doesn’t match the one in your app, it’s not your ride. These fake drivers usually charge inflated rates, and once you’re in their car, you lose bargaining power.

The safest approach is simple: always double-check the plate number and driver photo in the app before getting in.

If you want extra peace of mind, head to the airport’s designated ride-hailing pickup zones, where real Grab or Be drivers wait. Ignore the noise and the pushy offers, your app is the only confirmation you need.

Book Private Transfers or Use Grab from the Airports

If you want to keep things stress-free, booking a private airport transfer on Klook in advance is often the smoothest way to go, especially if you’re landing late at night or traveling with family.

You’ll pay a set fee, have a driver waiting with your name on a sign, and avoid the chaos of negotiating or worrying about scams.

That said, Vietnam also offers great ridesharing options, such as Grab (the Southeast Asian version of Uber), which are reliable and affordable.

Using these apps ensures you pay the local rate, not an inflated tourist price. In major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, they’re widely available for both cars and motorbikes.

If you’re traveling longer distances, buses and trains are available, but they can be time-consuming. For maximum convenience, mix pre-booked transfers with Grab rides for short hops within cities; it’s a balance of budget, safety, and ease.

Watch Your Step on Sidewalks

Sidewalks in Vietnam aren’t always like the ones you might be used to back home. They can be uneven, broken up, or blocked by parked motorbikes and food stalls.

That means you’ll often find yourself stepping into the street to keep moving, which requires a little extra awareness due to the constant flow of traffic.

And it’s not just about looking down; in Vietnam, you also need to watch your step to the right and left. Scooters often use sidewalks as shortcuts, especially in large cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Yes, you read that right: it’s not unusual to see a motorbike zooming past you while you’re walking on what should be pedestrian space.

The best advice is to stay alert and move with confidence. Don’t freeze in the middle of the sidewalk or street, but also don’t assume vehicles will always yield to you. Keep your eyes on your surroundings in all directions, and you’ll quickly adjust to the flow.

Use Fast Track Service at Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN)

Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat Airport is renowned for its lengthy immigration lines, particularly during peak travel periods. One way to save yourself from the wait is by booking a fast-track service.

It’s straightforward: a staff member meets you upon arrival, guides you through a dedicated line, and gets you processed much faster than standing in the regular queue.

For travelers arriving after a long flight or during busy holiday periods, this service is a real time-saver, helping you start your trip on the right foot.

Be Careful with Motorbike Rentals

If there’s one place in the world where riding a scooter feels overwhelming, it’s Vietnam.

Scooters aren’t just transportation here; they’re part of daily life, and there are millions of them on the roads. The traffic can feel absolutely chaotic, and if you’re not a very experienced driver, don’t even think about jumping on one in the cities.

Now, if you’ve ridden scooters before and you’re staying in a calmer beach town or a quieter countryside area, renting can be a great way to explore.

Just keep it safe: always wear a helmet, check the bike before you ride, and avoid shops that ask for your passport as a deposit.

Bottom line, scooters are everywhere in Vietnam, but they’re not for beginners. If you want to explore the country without the stress, taxis, Grab, or trains are better bets in busier areas.

Food & Drink Tips in Vietnam

Try Regional Specialties

One of the best aspects of traveling in Vietnam is discovering the distinct differences in food from region to region. Each part of the country has its own specialties, and tasting them where they originated makes all the difference.

In Hanoi, you’ll find classics like Pho and Bun Cha, smoky grilled pork with noodles that locals eat daily. Central Vietnam brings bold flavors with Mi Quang and Cao Lau.

At the same time, Saigon’s food is renowned for being sweeter and packed with fresh herbs, featuring dishes such as canh chua (a sour tamarind soup) and Bo Kho, a delicious flavorful beef stew.

When I first came to Vietnam, I already knew there were regional differences in the cuisine, but I didn’t realize just how significant they were until I spent months here. Some dishes are simply unavailable outside their home city.

For example, there’s a stir-fried beef salad in Hanoi that I absolutely fell in love with, but when I went looking for it in Saigon and other cities, it was nowhere to be found, and even locals had no suggestions. That’s how unique and regional Vietnamese food really is.

Don’t Shy Away from Street Food

If you’re hesitant about eating street food in Vietnam, don’t be. Some of the country’s most famous dishes are best enjoyed from small stools on the sidewalk.

Vendors often specialize in just one or two dishes they’ve been perfecting for years, so the quality can rival, or even surpass, that of restaurants.

Look for spots that are busy with locals, as high turnover indicates fresher food and something delicious is nearby!

Drink Coffee the Vietnamese Way

Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee producer, and the local coffee culture is unlike anywhere else. Instead of grabbing a quick takeaway, join locals sitting at small cafés and savoring slow-dripped filter coffee.

You can try it black, but many visitors fall in love with iced coffee sweetened with condensed milk, poured over ice for a refreshing kick.

Vietnam is also known for the robusta bean, which has a much higher caffeine content than arabica.

It gives Vietnamese coffee its bold, intense flavor and an excellent jolt of energy. Beyond that, the country has created unique drinks you won’t find anywhere else, from frothy egg coffee in Hanoi to coconut coffee in the south.

If there’s one thing that excites me when I’ve booked a flight to Vietnam, it’s knowing I’ll get to dive back into the incredible coffee culture and enjoy those bold, unique brews I love so much.

Don’t Drink the Tap Water

One of the most essential travel tips for Vietnam is to avoid drinking tap water. The local water system isn’t treated to the same standards as in many Western countries, and even locals stick to bottled or filtered water.

Always buy sealed bottles from shops or supermarkets, or better yet, refill them at your hotel or a refill station to reduce plastic waste.

When eating out, ice is generally safe in established restaurants and cafes, as it’s made from filtered water. However, be cautious with street stalls if you’re unsure. It’s also a good idea to use bottled or filtered water when brushing your teeth, just to be safe.

Culture & Etiquette in Vietnam

Check Visa Requirements Early

Depending on where you’re from, you may need a visa to enter Vietnam. Travelers from countries like Canada, the US, and Australia do need one, while some nationalities get exemptions for short stays.

The easiest option is applying online for an e-visa through the official government website (I’ll add the outbound link here later).

Don’t leave this until the last minute; processing times can vary, and you don’t want your trip delayed over paperwork.

Bargain Politely at Markets

Bargaining is part of the culture in Vietnam, especially at local markets where prices aren’t fixed.

Don’t be shy about negotiating, but keep it polite and friendly. Vendors expect it, and starting with a smile goes a long way.

A good rule of thumb is to offer about half of the asking price and then work your way up from there.

Just remember, for many sellers, this is their livelihood, so haggle respectfully and know when it’s time to agree or walk away. That being said, if you prefer not to bother, consider visiting stalls or stores with clearly marked prices on their items.

Learn a Few Basic Vietnamese Phrases

Although English is more widely spoken among younger generations and in tourist areas, picking up a few Vietnamese words goes a long way.

Simple phrases like xin chào (hello), cảm ơn (thank you), or bao nhiêu? (how much?) can make your interactions smoother and earn you a smile.

The effort is always appreciated, and it shows respect for the culture, plus, it can even help you out when bargaining or ordering food at local spots.

Dress Respectfully at Temples & Pagodas

Vietnam’s temples and pagodas are not just tourist attractions, but also active places of worship.

When visiting, please ensure your shoulders and knees are covered, and refrain from wearing flashy or revealing outfits. If you’re unsure, carrying a light scarf or shawl is a simple solution.

Always remove your shoes before entering prayer halls, and keep your voice low. Showing respect not only helps you blend in but also ensures you’re welcomed warmly by locals.

Safety & Smart Travel Tips

Choose Between an eSIM or a Local SIM

Staying connected in Vietnam is easy, but you’ll want to choose the option that works best for your trip. eSIMs like Airalo are convenient since you can set them up before you even land, which is great for short visits or if you don’t want the hassle of finding a shop.

That said, local SIM cards, especially those from Viettel, the largest provider in Vietnam, are quite affordable and offer reliable coverage almost everywhere, including smaller towns.

Just make sure to avoid the overpriced stands inside the airport; they often charge double or triple the price. Instead, grab one from an official store or a vendor in the city once you’ve settled in.

If you’re planning to stay a while, the local SIM is usually the better deal. For a quick trip, eSIMs win on convenience. Either way, you’ll want reliable data for maps, ride-sharing apps, and translation services.

Cross the Street with Confidence

Crossing the road in Vietnam can feel like its own adventure. If you scroll social media, you’ll find plenty of funny videos of tourists freezing in the middle of the street while locals glide past effortlessly.

And honestly? That’s pretty accurate. It’s overwhelming at first, but you’ll get the hang of it.

The key is confidence and awareness. Step off the curb, look both ways, and move steadily. The absolute worst thing you can do is stop halfway, I know from experience.

Drivers expect you to maintain a predictable pace so they can adjust accordingly. If you hesitate, it throws everything off.

Stay calm, be aware of your surroundings, and remember that crossing the street in Vietnam is less about waiting for a perfect gap and more about finding the rhythm of the traffic.

Be Aware of Common Scams

Like many popular destinations in Southeast Asia, Vietnam has its fair share of petty scams that target tourists. Most are harmless but annoying, designed to squeeze a few extra dollars out of you.

One of the most common is the shoe-shining scam, where someone insists on “fixing” or cleaning your shoes, then demands an inflated payment afterward.

Taxi scams are another issue, with unlicensed drivers overcharging or taking unnecessarily long routes. That’s why it’s always best to use a trusted app like Grab or book rides through your hotel.

Street-side “too good to be true” offers, random fees tacked on to menus, and even a friendly stranger suddenly guiding you somewhere can all be subtle red flags.

If you want to prepare in advance, I’ve put together a complete guide on scams in Vietnam, covering the most common tricks and how to avoid them. A little awareness goes a long way in keeping your trip stress-free.

Avoid Using Sleeper Buses

Sleeper buses in Vietnam might look appealing; they’re cheap, they run all over the country, and on paper, they seem like a budget traveler’s dream.

Many travelers even post positive reviews about the novelty of the reclining beds and overnight journeys.

But here’s the reality: safety is a significant concern. A quick Google search will show reports of accidents, crashes, and other issues that are far too common. While not every ride ends in disaster, the risk isn’t worth it when safer alternatives exist.

Instead, utilize Vietnam’s extensive train network, which connects major cities and provides a smoother and safer ride. For train connections, browse 12Go.

If you’re covering longer distances between regions, budget airlines like VietJet and Bamboo Airways are affordable and save you valuable travel time.

Keep an Eye on Your Bag

Petty theft in Vietnam isn’t something to stress over, but it is something to be mindful of, especially in big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Bag snatching can happen, often by someone on a scooter who grabs your purse or backpack as they drive by.

The easiest way to avoid this is by keeping your bag zipped, wearing it across your body, and holding it on the side away from the street.

When you’re sitting at a café or street food stall, don’t just leave it hanging on the back of your chair; keep it in sight or loop the strap around your leg.

These small habits make you much less of a target, and they’ll let you focus on enjoying your trip instead of worrying about your belongings.

Vietnam Travel Tips: Final Takeaways

Vietnam is one of those countries that rewards you the more time you give it. From its bustling cities and motorbike-packed streets to quiet beaches and misty mountain towns, it’s a destination that can surprise you at every turn.

The key is being prepared. A few simple travel tips, carrying cash, downloading Grab, dressing for the northern cold, and knowing how to cross the street, can save you stress and help you avoid the most common tourist mistakes in Vietnam.

At the same time, don’t get caught up in planning every detail. Leave space for the street food discoveries, spontaneous day trips, and those little everyday moments that make Vietnam unforgettable.

If you come in with an open mind, respect the culture, and stay flexible, you’ll walk away with more than just photos; you’ll leave with stories that stick with you long after you’ve flown home.