Safety in Vietnam
Before discussing practical tips, it’s important to remember that traveling to Vietnam is overall a secure experience. At Shanti Travel, we have seen over two decades that travelers' main concerns relate not to violent crime, but to everyday practicalities and common-sense vigilance. For a smooth and safe journey, our travelers benefit greatly from preparation and local knowledge. Learn more in our specialized travel to Vietnam programs, where safety is always a key priority.
Crime in Vietnam
Vietnam remains a very safe country with a low level of criminality under common law. While serious crime is rare, petty crime exists, particularly in tourist hotspots such as certain districts of Ho Chi Minh City, Sapa, and Nha Trang. Clever pickpockets and fast-moving thieves on scooters sometimes target foreigners, most often snatching purses, bags, and phones. These incidents, while disruptive, are seldom violent.
Scams to be Aware Of:
Experienced Shanti travelers know that a handful of common scams occasionally catch the unwary:
- Bar and venue scams: Be cautious if a new acquaintance encourages you to visit a bar or restaurant, as you may be left with an unexpected bill.
- Fake taxis: Always choose trusted cab brands such as Mai Linh or Vinasun, or reputable ride-hailing apps (like Grab). Refuse drivers who won’t use a meter or offer suspiciously cheap fares.
- Overpriced street vendors: Some vendors may overcharge for souvenirs, fruits, or photographs. Always establish a price before agreeing to any service or purchase.
- Counterfeit currency: Exchange money only at official banks or exchange offices to avoid scams.
- Duplicate businesses: Some businesses imitate popular companies by name but provide poor service or value.
The vast majority of Vietnamese people are welcoming, honest, and eager to help visitors, especially if there’s a shared language. Even in busy tourist centers, showing basic vigilance is your best defense.
Practical Safety Tips from the Experts
Here are some key recommendations to ensure your safety in Vietnam:
- Make multiple copies of your critical documents—passport, itinerary, credit cards, and tickets—and keep both digital and physical backups.
- Use cross-body bags with zippers and keep valuables out of sight.
- Be discreet with expensive jewelry or large sums of cash.
- Leave your most important documents (passport, backup cards) in the hotel safe whenever possible.
- Only use ATMs located inside secure buildings like banks or shopping centers.
- Don’t leave valuables in taxis or hired vehicles, even briefly.
- Avoid using unofficial money exchangers or street vendors for currency exchange.
- Verify the price of goods and food before ordering, and ask for itemized receipts in markets and restaurants.
- Rely on your hotel or Shanti Travel advisor to book reputable taxis—never accept unsolicited offers on busy streets.
- Familiarize yourself with your hotel’s address and carry it in Vietnamese (ask staff to write it down).
- Only rent scooters or motorbikes if you are experienced, have a valid license, and proper insurance. Helmets are mandatory and essential.
Street Vendors in Vietnam
Expect to be approached frequently by street vendors, from souvenir sellers to shoe shiners and motorbike taxis. Their persistence can be surprising, but it is very rarely aggressive. Stay patient—firm but polite refusals (a simple smile and shake of the head) are effective. These vendors are part of the fabric of local life and do not pose a threat to your safety in Vietnam.
Crossing Streets in Vietnam
Traffic in Vietnam is both legendary and intimidating, particularly in major cities. Thousands of scooters, buses, and pedestrians share the road in apparent chaos. Here are tangible tips:
- Cross firmly and at a consistent pace—do not run or stop suddenly.
- Make eye contact with approaching drivers and, when possible, gesture with your hand to increase visibility.
- Cross alongside locals if you’re unsure—the rhythm of the crowd can be reassuring.
- Use pedestrian crossings when available, but remember vehicles may not always stop.
- Avoid crossing at night or in poorly lit areas for your safety.
Health and Environmental Safety
- Only drink bottled or boiled water; avoid ice in drinks unless you are sure it is made from filtered water.
- Choose busy, hygienic food stalls where staff use gloves or utensils and food turnover is high.
- Bring a small medical kit with plasters, antiseptic, and any personal medication.
- Stick to reputable pharmacies for any medicines (chains like Pharmacity or Long Chau) and check expiry dates.
- Watch out for mosquitoes, especially in rural areas—bring repellent and wear long sleeves at dawn and dusk.
- Beware of stray animals and avoid petting unknown dogs or cats to minimize rabies risk.
It’s essential to have key emergency numbers on hand:
- Police: 113
- Fire: 114
- Ambulance/Medical Emergency: 115
- Rescue (Disasters/Natural Hazards): 112
Know the location of major international hospitals in cities you visit:
- Hanoi: Vinmec International Hospital, Hanoi French Hospital
- Ho Chi Minh City: FV Hospital, Columbia Asia International Clinic
- Da Nang: Hoan My Da Nang Hospital, Family Medical Practice
Keep your embassy/consulate contact information handy for support with lost passports, thefts, or emergencies.
- Learn a few emergency phrases such as “Tôi cần bác sĩ” (I need a doctor) and “Giúp tôi với” (Help me).
- Save important phone numbers in your mobile and carry a printed list as backup.
- Always inform your Shanti Travel local advisor about your whereabouts if traveling independently, so support is readily available if needed.
A last word on safety in Vietnam
Finally, in order not to offend anyone on your trip to Vietnam, make sure you respect local customs—this is especially important when visiting the homes of different ethnic minorities. Your guide or Shanti Travel expert can brief you on appropriate behavior and local taboos to observe.
Staying alert, courteous, and informed ensures your Vietnamese adventure is first and foremost memorable for all the right reasons. If there is anything else you want to know about safety in Vietnam, your Shanti Travel Expert is always ready to help!
