Traveling to Vietnam can be an exciting and enriching experience, but for first-time travelers, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. This guide will help you navigate your journey and avoid those pitfalls, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip to this beautiful country.
1. Do I Need a Visa?
Yes, understanding visa requirements is crucial. Depending on your nationality, you might need to arrange a visa in advance. For instance, a traveler from the United States who arrived at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi without a visa approval letter was denied entry and had to book an expensive return flight home. To avoid such issues, check the specific visa requirements for your country on the Vietnamese government website and apply for an e-visa or visa approval letter if necessary. Always carry a printed copy of your visa approval letter when traveling.
Top Tip: Before travel, visit one of the many travel agencies that allow you to make an online application for a visa.
2. What Should I Wear?
Ignoring local customs can lead to awkward situations or even offend locals. For example, a tourist wearing a sleeveless top and shorts while visiting the Temple of Literature in Hanoi was turned away at the entrance. To respect local customs, dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites. When in doubt, observe what locals are wearing and follow suit.
Top Tip: Dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites.
3. How Much Money Should I Bring?
Not budgeting correctly can lead to financial stress. Many travelers underestimate their daily expenses, such as transportation, meals, and entry fees to attractions. For example, a backpacker who planned to spend $20 a day ran out of money halfway through their trip because they didn’t account for entrance fees to attractions and transportation costs. Create a realistic budget before you go, and always have a financial cushion for unexpected expenses.
Top Tip: Research average costs for accommodation, food, and activities in Vietnam. Budget at least $30-$50 a day for a comfortable trip and keep an emergency fund accessible.
4. Should I Pack Light?
Overpacking can make traveling between destinations cumbersome and costly if you exceed airline baggage limits. Many travelers bring too much. Remember, Vietnam has modern conveniences, and you can buy most necessities there. For example, a tourist who brought multiple suitcases filled with clothing and toiletries struggled to carry them on and off buses and paid extra baggage fees at airports. Pack light with versatile clothing and leave room for souvenirs. If you forget something, it’s likely you can buy it locally at a fraction of the cost.
Top Tip: Pack essentials only. Use packing cubes to organize and minimize space. Buy toiletries and other necessities once you arrive in Vietnam if needed.
5. Should I Learn Basic Vietnamese Phrases?
Yes, while many Vietnamese people in tourist areas speak some English, knowing a few basic Vietnamese phrases can go a long way. Not only does it show respect for the local culture, but it can also help you navigate more easily and build rapport with locals. For example, a traveler who tried to ask for directions in English in a rural area struggled to communicate with locals who did not speak English. Simple phrases like “xin chào” (hello), “cảm ơn” (thank you), and “bao nhiêu?” (how much?) can enhance your travel experience.
Top Tip: Learn basic Vietnamese phrases before your trip. Carry a small phrasebook or use a translation app to help with communication.
6. Should I Use Unofficial Taxis?
No, using unofficial taxis can lead to being overcharged or taken on a longer route to increase the fare. Official taxis are generally safer and more reliable. Make sure to use reputable taxi companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun. Alternatively, consider using ride-hailing apps like Grab for transparent pricing and safer rides. For example, a tourist who hailed a random taxi from the street was charged triple the normal fare for a short ride.
Top Tip: Only use taxis from reputable companies or book rides through ride-hailing apps like Grab, which provide upfront pricing and driver information.
7. Is Cash Necessary?
Yes, Vietnam is primarily a cash-based economy, especially in smaller towns and local markets. Relying solely on credit cards can be problematic as many places do not accept them. ATMs are widely available, but it’s important to have cash on hand for small purchases, transportation, and street food. For instance, a traveler who tried to buy street food in Ho Chi Minh City realized the vendor did not accept cards and they had no cash.
Top Tip: Always carry a sufficient amount of Vietnamese Dong for daily expenses. Withdraw cash from ATMs in larger amounts to avoid multiple withdrawal fees.
8. Is Tap Water Safe to Drink?
No, tap water in Vietnam is not safe to drink and can lead to serious health issues. Always drink bottled or purified water, and be cautious with ice in drinks unless you are sure it is made from purified water. Avoid eating raw vegetables and fruits that may have been washed with tap water. For example, a tourist who drank tap water in their hotel room fell ill with a stomach infection.
Top Tip: Buy bottled water, use water purification tablets, or drink from a filtered water bottle. Avoid ice unless you are certain it is made from purified water.
9. Should I Negotiate Prices?
While it is true that most things in Vietnam are cheap, there are times when prices are not marked on products, and it can be worrying as a tourist that you may be overcharged. Knowing when and how to negotiate is key. For instance, a traveler quoted a high price for a souvenir in a market successfully negotiated the price down significantly. If something appears unreasonably expensive, try haggling politely. If your haggling doesn’t work, walk away. Reverse psychology can often be a successful tool in the art of bargaining.
Top Tip: If something appears unreasonably expensive, try haggling politely. If your haggling doesn’t work, walk away. Reverse psychology can often be a successful tool in the art of bargaining.
10. Is the Weather Predictable?
Vietnam’s weather can be unpredictable, with sudden rain showers even during the dry season. Failing to prepare for the weather can disrupt your plans. For instance, a traveler who planned a day trip without checking the weather got caught in a sudden downpour, ruining their plans. Always carry an umbrella or a raincoat, and check the weather forecast daily. Be flexible with your plans to accommodate sudden weather changes.
Top Tip: Always carry an umbrella or a raincoat, and check the weather forecast daily. Be flexible with your plans to accommodate sudden weather changes.
Gear Up for Your Vietnamese Adventure!
By being aware of these common mistakes, you can enjoy a hassle-free trip to Vietnam. Respect the culture, plan ahead, and you’re sure to have an unforgettable adventure. Ready for an Adventure? Planning your trip to Vietnam? Let Vespa Adventures make your experience seamless and memorable. Check out our Vietnam tours from Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An, and Saigon. Our local guides will ensure you avoid common travel mistakes and enjoy the best of Vietnam. Book your adventure today!
