Introduction
Vietnam, with its dizzying motorbikes, lantern-lit ancient streets, jaw-dropping karst landscapes, and some of the friendliest people on the planet, is a dream destination for millions. But it’s also intense, hot, and wonderfully chaotic. First-time visitors who arrive prepared fall instantly in love; those who don’t can feel overwhelmed in the first 24 hours. Here are the 20 top tips for first-time travelers to Vietnam that will turn your trip from stressful to unforgettable.
1. Choose the Right Season for Your Route
North (Hanoi, Sapa, Halong): best Mar–Apr & Oct–Nov Central (Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang): Feb–Aug South (HCMC, Mekong, Phu Quoc): Dec–Apr Avoid Sep–Oct typhoon season in the center if possible.
2. Get Your Visa Sorted Early
Most nationalities now get 45-day visa-free entry (as of 2025) or a super-easy e-visa ($25, 3–5 working days). Do it online at the official government site — never use shady third-party sites that charge $80+.
3. Fly into Hanoi or HCMC — Not Both on a Short Trip
They’re 1,100 km apart. Pick one as entry and the other as exit to avoid wasting two days on overnight trains/buses.
4. Download Grab App Immediately
Vietnam’s Uber/Bolt/Foodpanda all in one. GrabBike ($1 rides) and GrabCar are safer and cheaper than random street taxis. Always use the app — never negotiate on the street.
5. Carry USD + VND Cash
ATMs are everywhere, but many places (trains, street food, homestays) are cash-only. Withdraw large amounts to avoid fees. USD is accepted at hotels and travel agencies.
6. Learn to Cross the Road
Walk slowly and predictably. Don’t stop or run. Motorbikes will flow around you like water. Look at locals and copy them.
7. Book Trains & Popular Tours Early
Overnight trains (especially Hanoi–Sapa, Hanoi–Hue) and Ha Long Bay cruises sell out weeks ahead in high season. Use Baolau or 12Go Asia for reliable booking.
8. Pack Light, but Smart
One carry-on + daypack is perfect. Bring: quick-dry towel, flip-flops, rain jacket (even in dry season), power bank, earplugs, and a scarf (sun/dust/pollution).
9. Drink Only Bottled Water — But Ice Is Usually Safe
Government-regulated ice factories supply cafés and restaurants. Street juice with ice is 99 % fine. Just avoid tap water.
10. Eat Street Food — It’s Safer Than Restaurants
Busy stalls with high turnover are your best bet. Watch locals eat there. Avoid empty places with food sitting out all day.
11. Bargaining Is Expected (But Gentle)
Markets and souvenir shops: offer 40–50 % of the first price and meet in the middle. Smile and walk away if needed — they’ll often call you back.
12. Motorbike Rental: Only If You’re Experienced
Insurance almost never covers motorbikes. Roads are chaotic. If you must ride, get an International Driving Permit and wear a helmet.
13. “Xin chào” and “Cảm ơn” Go a Long Way
Hello and thank you in Vietnamese instantly make people warm up. Add a smile and you’ll be invited for tea everywhere.
14. Dress Modestly at Temples & Rural Areas
Shoulders and knees covered. Remove shoes and hats when entering pagodas or people’s homes.
15. Don’t Lose Your Cool — Ever
Raising your voice is the fastest way to lose face. Stay calm and smile even when things go wrong (delays, overcharging, etc.).
16. Book Halong Bay Cruises Wisely
Avoid cheap “party boats.” Spend a little more for Lan Ha or Bai Tu Long Bay routes — fewer crowds, same scenery.
17. Use 12Go or Baolau for All Buses & Trains
Official stations are confusing. These sites show timetables in English and let you book with e-tickets.
18. Sunscreen & Mosquito Repellent Are Gold
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DEET 30–50 % and SPF 50+ are hard to find outside big cities. Bring from home.
19. Tipping Is Not Expected — But Appreciated
Round up Grab rides, give 20–50k VND (~$1–2) to guides, massage therapists, or homestay staff if service was great.
20. Give Yourself Buffer Days
Flights get delayed, buses break down, food poisoning happens. Build 1–2 extra days into your itinerary instead of packing it tight.
Bonus Quick Tips
- Wi-Fi is excellent almost everywhere — get a 30-day tourist SIM at the airport (Viettel or Mobifone, ~$10 for 100 GB)
- Public toilets: carry tissue and hand sanitizer
- “Same same but different” is the national motto — embrace it when things aren’t exactly as expected
Final Thoughts
Vietnam will overwhelm your senses on day one — the noise, the smells, the heat, the constant movement. But by day three, you’ll be squatting on a tiny plastic stool, slurping phở with chopsticks in one hand and a cold Saigon beer in the other, wondering why you ever hesitated.
These top tips for first-time travelers to Vietnam are your cheat sheet to skipping the rookie mistakes and diving straight into the magic. Save this post, bookmark it, share it with your travel buddy — and get ready for the trip that will ruin all future trips (in the best possible way).
Which tip surprised you the most? Or which one are you definitely following? Let me know in the comments — see you on the streets of Hanoi! 🇻🇳✈️
