When I first began planning my solo budget trip to Southeast Asia, Vietnam was at the top of my list.
The country’s rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture seemed irresistible. But honestly, I always had the same questions in my mind.
Is Vietnam safe for solo travellers? Aren’t there still problems? Isn’t it still recovering from wars?
These thoughts swirled in my mind, fueled by years of sensationalized media.
But guess what?
My curiosity overcame my fears, and I decided to find out for myself.
When I arrived in Vietnam, I felt like I’d entered a different world entirely opposite of what I had imagined. There were no signs of war, no feeling of danger. Instead, I was greeted with warm smiles, a sense of peace, and a vibrant and inviting rhythm of life.
I laughed at how wrong I’d been. I was experiencing a safe, bustling country, eager to share its culture with travellers like me.
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about travelling solo in Vietnam, including safety and cultural tips.
The Challenges I Faced on My Solo Trip in Vietnam
Traffic Chaos
Crossing the street in Vietnam was easily the most intimidating challenge I faced. Imagine hundreds of motorcycles, cars, and buses coming from every direction with no clear pause in sight. But once you adapt it and understand how locals cross the street, you will see how simple it is to cross the road
Language Barriers
While English is commonly spoken in touristy areas, smaller towns and rural villages are a different story. I remember being in a small café in Hoi An and trying to ask for directions to the nearest ATM. The staff didn’t understand, but it saved the day when I pulled out Google Translate. The key is to be patient, smile often, and rely on apps like Google Translate or download a Vietnamese phrasebook for backup.
Scams in Tourist Areas
In some popular spots, I encountered a few scams aimed at tourists. For example, some vendors in the street will try to sell you souvenirs at a very high price. So, make sure to know about prices in Vietnam so that you can negotiate with them fairly.
Adjusting to Local Customs
While not exactly a challenge, adapting to local customs was something I had to learn on the go.
For instance, in smaller villages, I noticed people staring—not out of hostility but simply curiosity, and they want to speak with you.
Instead of feeling awkward, smile and greet them, and you will see how the Vietnamese are easygoing.
Safety Tips for Solo Travellers in Vietnam
Avoid Displaying Valuables
Vietnam may be safe overall, but crowded streets can be prime spots for petty theft, especially with women.
Imagine walking through a bustling market, chatting on your phone, and suddenly a scooter zooms by, snatching it right out of your hand—it happens, and I have seen it many times in Vietnam and other countries!
Instead, use a crossbody bag with anti-theft features to keep your belongings secure.
So remember, always don’t show your valuable objects in a crowded area.
Be Cautious at Night
Vietnam’s nightlife is vibrant and has safe, hidden gems worth exploring.
However, some local neighbourhoods might feel different, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, busy areas.
This reminds me of an experience in Istanbul, where my curiosity led me to an unfamiliar neighbourhood at night. It felt off, and everyone seemed to stare. I quickly made my way back to a tourist-friendly area. While nothing bad happened, it’s always better to be cautious when venturing into unfamiliar places.
Related reading: Hanoi vs Ho Chi Minh City Nightlife – which is better
Massage Spa Scammers:
Beware of side-street massage spas. Many are legitimate, but some operate scams where a $10 massage turns into a $100 bill, and if you say no, she might call the police.
Always ask your hostel/hotel for a recommendation and check their reviews online.
Use Reliable Transportation:
Apps like Grab are a game-changer in Vietnam. They’re safe and affordable and sometimes even offer free rides or discounts. However, if you use a traditional taxi or motorcycle taxi, always negotiate the fare beforehand, as some drivers might hike up the price for tourists.
For example, when a taxi stopped for me, I quickly checked the fare on Grab and insisted on that price. If they refuse, don’t hesitate to look for another ride—avoiding a hassle is better.
Trust Your Instincts
If something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore that gut feeling. Once again, my Istanbul experience taught me the value of this. In Vietnam, I felt safe everywhere I went but stayed alert in places where I felt out of my comfort zone. Always trust your instincts and prioritize your safety.
Stay Connected:
Purchase a local SIM card as soon as you arrive. Having access to maps, Grab, and emergency contacts is invaluable in Vietnam, especially since many locals don’t speak English. You can find SIM cards at the airport or in most convenience stores, and they’re incredibly affordable—usually costing around $5–$7 for a month of data. It’s a small investment for peace of mind and convenience.
You can purchase your sim card here online.
If you would prefer an e-sim, you can purchase it here online.
Learn to Negotiate
Negotiation is a normal part of everyday life in Vietnam, especially at markets and with street vendors. Unlike Europe or the West, prices are often flexible, and as a tourist, you’ll likely be quoted a higher price.
Don’t hesitate to negotiate and stick to your price. Vendors often expect it, and most will settle for a fair deal.
When I wanted to buy a traditional Vietnamese hat from a street vendor, she initially quoted me €7.
Knowing this was inflated, I bargained and bought it for €3—the same price locals were paying.
It felt like a mini-victory!
Vietnam’s traffic can be overwhelming at first glance, especially in cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. With scooters weaving in every direction, it might seem impossible to cross the road, but don’t worry—you’ll adapt quickly with these tips:
Crossing the Streets with Confidence
At first, crossing a street in Vietnam might feel like stepping into chaos. It looks like no one wants to stop for you, but it is actually easier and simpler than you think.
- Walk steadily and make eye contact with drivers as you cross. This signals them that you’re moving, and they’ll naturally adjust their paths to avoid you.
- Don’t stop mid-road. While pausing and waiting might feel natural, it can cause confusion and increase the risk of an accident. It happened to me once in Ho Chi Minh City. I didn’t understand if I needed to stop so the driver could pass or continue walking; it confused the driver and almost caused an accident, so be careful and don’t stop.
Just keep a steady pace, and you’ll find that the scooters flow around you like water.
Think Twice Before Renting a Motorcycle
While renting a motorcycle is popular among travellers in Vietnam, it’s not for everyone.
I learned this the hard way during my Bali trip. Even though I’m comfortable using a scooter in my home country, I had an accident there because I underestimated the road conditions
If you’re not confident in your motorcycle skills, stick to safer options like Grab. Trust me, it’s not worth the risk.
If you do decide to rent a motorcycle, ensure you:
- Wear a helmet (it’s required by law).
- Understand local traffic rules.
- Check if you can use your license in Vietnam. While people usually don’t check it, who knows, in rare situations, they might ask you for your license
World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while travelling and claim online from anywhere in the world.
Health Tips for Solo Travellers in Vietnam
Travelling solo in Vietnam can be an adventure of a lifetime, but it’s always wise to prioritize your health and safety to ensure a smooth journey. Here are some practical tips from my experience:
Choose Your Street Food Wisely
Street food in Vietnam is a must-try, offering incredible flavours and a glimpse into local culture. However, not all street food stalls are created equal.
- Stick to busy stalls. If you see locals lining up, it’s usually a sign the food is fresh and safe.
- Avoid questionable spots. Being open to new experiences as a solo traveller is great, but avoid eating from unhygienic or deserted stalls. They might have a good price, but you can spend your trip confined to your accommodation with food poisoning.
Drink Bottled Water and Skip Ice in Rural Areas
Tap water in Vietnam isn’t safe to drink, so always stick to bottled water.
Carry Basic Medications
As a solo traveller, it’s always smart to have a mini first-aid kit on hand.
- Bring medications for stomach troubles, pain relief, and minor injuries.
- While this advice applies to any destination, I’ve learned it the hard way after dealing with an upset stomach in an unfamiliar place. Now, I never leave for a trip without a basic medical kit—it’s a lifesaver.
As you see, Vietnam is not just safe—it’s an amazing destination for solo travellers filled with rich culture, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable adventures. While challenges like language barriers and chaotic traffic exist, they’re all part of the journey and easy to overcome with some preparation and common sense.
So pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and get ready to create incredible memories in this vibrant and welcoming country!
Author bio
Hi, I’m Hamadi, a passionate traveller and the creator of TravResources.com. My mission is to help fellow wanderers explore the world on a budget. Through my good and challenging experiences, I share practical tips, detailed itineraries, and guides to make your travels smoother and more memorable.
We hope you enjoyed the article Is Vietnam Safe for Travellers by Hamadi. This is very important information for all solo travellers, wherever you are travelling.
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