Is Vietnam Safe? Our Guide to Safety in Vietnam

Table of contents

Vietnam, one of Southeast Asia’s most popular gems, has long been on the radar of avid travelers seeking a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, cuisine, and history. Beyond the iconic beauty of Vietnam, a common question we get from new to seasoned travelers is: "Is Vietnam safe?". We think so! Vietnam is not only safe but it’s likely you’ll feel incredibly welcomed. We’ll ease your worries on what you can expect when it comes to safety in Vietnam along with some general travel tips that will come in handy during your stay.

Our Vespa Saigon Tour makes sure you have fun and stay safe
On Vespa A Go Go tours, we make sure to keep you safe and have a fun time

Checkout our video on YouTube for a quick summary of these tips!

Low crime rates and welcoming locals

One of the most comforting aspects of Vietnam is its remarkably low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and the country is known for its peaceful and hospitable atmosphere. However, that’s not to say to completely put your guard down. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas, but this is no more prevalent than in other popular tourist destinations around the world. We recommend simple precautions, like keeping your bag in front of you (especially for women), minding your pockets, and being mindful of walking around with your phone out. Other basic safety tips such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night, are usually sufficient to ensure a trouble-free experience.

Vietnamese are famous for their hospitality
Even though Vietnamese locals are super friendly, it wouldn’t hurt to take caution

The friendliness of the Vietnamese people is legendary. Famous for their warm hospitality, locals often go out of their way to help visitors, even with a language barrier. Whether you find yourself walking in circles in the streets of Hanoi or need directions to find the Opera House in Saigon, you can count on the locals to offer assistance with a smile. You may even end up making a new friend!

Remember! Google Translate is your friend!

Efficient, safe travel options

Compared to other countries in the region, Vietnam boasts an extensive and reliable transportation network, including buses, trains, and domestic flights. Most of the major cities have taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab and are safe to use. They use modern technology that allows you to share your route with people as well as efficient emergency lines available on the apps. For those who prefer to brave the roads themselves, renting a motorbike is a popular option. While traffic can be hectic, it is a requirement that you must wear a helmet and always abide by local traffic laws.

Make sure to download these apps to go around Vietnam
Make sure to get ride-hailing apps downloaded before coming to Vietnam - Grab, Be, etc.

Are food and healthcare safe in Vietnam?

Vietnam has made significant strides in improving its healthcare and hygiene standards as they try to compete with the global market. Major cities are equipped with modern hospitals and clinics that provide high-quality, international medical services. Pharmacies can be found on nearly every corner which you will find filled with essential medications. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as well as to check if any vaccinations are recommended before your trip.

Pharmacity, Long Chau - you can easily find pharmacities in Saigon
You can find pharmacies in pretty much every corner in big cities

Food quality and safety is a question we get often, especially when so much of the popular local cuisine is eaten on the street. While enjoying street food, we recommend choosing vendors who maintain good hygiene practices. Trust your gut (pun intended)! Opt for stalls that you notice have a high turnover of customers, as this indicates fresh ingredients and popular dishes.

Don’t be shy to ask a local for advice!

Cultural respect and general safety tips

Vietnamese culture is deeply rooted in respect and harmony, which vastly contributes to the country's overall safety. When coming to Vietnam, we encourage tourists to familiarize themselves with local customs and traditions as this will ensure a respectful and enriching experience. Dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and asking for permission before taking photos of people are simple yet important gestures of respect.

Respect local customs when travelling to Vietnam
Remember to take off your shoes and wear suitable clothes walking into sacred places

Here are some general safety tips for traveling in Vietnam:

Stay Hydrated: The tropical climate can be intense and something not many are used to. Be sure to drink plenty of water.

Use Sunscreen: The UV rays in Vietnam can be high. Apply sunscreen to avoid a burn interrupting your trip!

Secure Valuables: Use hotel safes for passports, money, and important documents. Carry only what you need for the day.

Stay Connected: Keep family or friends informed of your travel plans and check in regularly.

Embrace the adventure with Vespa A Go Go

Vietnam is a safe destination for travelers of all kinds - whether you’re a female traveling solo or you’re visiting with a group or family, the combination of low crime rates, friendly locals, efficient transportation, and modern health and hygiene standards should ease your worries to the common question of “Is Vietnam safe?”.

So pack your bags and book your tour! We’re here to show you that Vietnam is not only safe but also incredibly welcoming and rewarding.

Travel Tips