Is Vietnam Safe for Travelers in 2025? An Honest Safety Guide from a Frequent Visitor - Xplrverse

My Personal Safety Experience in Vietnam

The first time I landed at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City back in 2018, I was overwhelmed with anxiety. The chaotic traffic, unfamiliar language, and stories I’d heard about scams had me clutching my backpack like it contained the crown jewels. Fast forward to 2025, and I’ve now visited Vietnam eight times, exploring everything from the bustling streets of Hanoi to remote villages in the northern highlands. That initial fear? It makes me laugh now.

During my last three-week trip through central Vietnam, I realized how dramatically my perspective had changed. I found myself confidently navigating the narrow alleyways of Hoi An at night, chatting with locals in broken Vietnamese, and even helping first-time travelers feel at ease. The truth about safety in Vietnam is nuanced, and that’s exactly what I want to share with you today.

Vietnam’s Overall Safety Profile in 2025

Vietnam consistently ranks as one of the safer countries for travelers in Southeast Asia. According to the 2024 Global Peace Index, Vietnam placed 49th out of 163 countries worldwide, making it more peaceful than several popular tourist destinations. Violent crime against tourists is remarkably rare, and most travelers experience no serious safety issues.

That said, no country is perfect, and Vietnam has its own set of concerns that travelers should be aware of. Let’s break down the specific safety aspects you should consider before your trip.

Crime Rates and Common Issues

The most common safety concerns for travelers in Vietnam are:

Petty theft – particularly smartphone snatching in major cities
Scams – including overcharging, fake taxis, and fraudulent tour operators
Traffic accidents – Vietnam’s roads can be chaotic and dangerous

The good news? Violent crime targeting tourists is extremely rare. In my extensive time in Vietnam, I’ve never personally experienced or witnessed any violent incidents involving travelers.

Regional Safety Differences

Safety can vary significantly depending on where in Vietnam you visit. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Region	Safety Level	Main Concerns
Ho Chi Minh City	Moderate	Bag snatching, pickpocketing in District 1
Hanoi	Moderate to High	Taxi scams, pickpocketing in Old Quarter
Tourist areas (Hoi An, Nha Trang)	High	Overcharging, minor scams
Rural areas	Very High	Few safety concerns beyond road safety
Border regions	Moderate	Occasional petty crime, scams

2025 Safety Updates

Since the pandemic, Vietnam has taken several steps to improve tourist safety:

The launch of the Tourism Police Force in major cities has reduced scams and petty crime in tourist areas
New traffic regulations in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have somewhat improved road safety
The Vietnamese tourist authority has created a centralized tourist complaint system for reporting issues
Increased presence of English-speaking police officers in tourist districts

One noticeable change in 2025 is the implementation of stricter regulations for tour operators, reducing the number of scam tours that were once prevalent in places like Halong Bay.

Common Scams and How to Avoid Them

In my years of traveling through Vietnam, I’ve encountered (and occasionally fallen for) various scams. Here are the most common ones still active in 2025, and how to avoid them:

Transportation Scams

The Rigged Taxi Meter

My first day in Hanoi in 2019, I got into an unmarked taxi outside my hotel. The meter jumped from 30,000 VND to 300,000 VND in seconds. I ended up paying 400,000 VND (about $16) for what should have been a $3 ride.

How to avoid it: Only use reputable taxi companies like Vinasun (white taxis with green and red stripes) and Mai Linh (green taxis) or use ride-hailing apps like Grab. Always check that the meter is running correctly when you start your journey.

The “Bus/Train is Full” Trick

You arrive at a bus station or train station, and someone tells you the bus or train you want is “full” but they can offer you a “special” private car service for a much higher price.

How to avoid it: Book transportation in advance through your accommodation or a reputable travel agency. For trains, I recommend booking through the official Vietnam Railways website or the Baolau platform.

Shopping and Service Scams

The “No Price Tag” Restaurant

In 2022, my friend and I dined at a seafood restaurant in Nha Trang where the menu had no prices. When the bill came, it was nearly triple what we should have paid.

How to avoid it: Always check prices before ordering. If a menu doesn’t have prices, ask explicitly or consider dining elsewhere. In 2025, most legitimate restaurants have clear pricing, especially in tourist areas.

The Shoe Repair Scam

Someone points out that your shoe is damaged or dirty, then offers to fix it. After a quick “repair,” they demand an exorbitant fee.

How to avoid it: Politely decline unsolicited services. If someone points out a problem with your belongings, thank them but walk away.

Special 2025 Alert: Digital Scams

With Vietnam embracing digital payments, new scams have emerged:

Fake QR codes – Scammers place their own QR codes over legitimate ones at restaurants or shops
Wi-Fi skimming – Fake free Wi-Fi networks that steal your login information
“Tourist discount” apps – Fraudulent apps claiming to offer special discounts

How to avoid it: Verify QR codes with staff before scanning, use a VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi, and only download apps from official app stores. For payments, I personally use a travel card with limited funds rather than linking my main bank account to payment apps in Vietnam.

Street Safety and Navigating Vietnamese Traffic

The Motorbike Madness

Vietnam’s traffic is legendary, and not always in a good way. With over 45 million registered motorbikes in a country of 100 million people, the roads can be overwhelming. In Ho Chi Minh City alone, there are an estimated 7.3 million motorbikes on the streets.

During my second visit to Vietnam, I made the mistake of trying to cross a busy street in Hanoi by waiting for a gap in traffic. After standing frozen on the curb for nearly 10 minutes, an elderly Vietnamese woman took my arm and practically dragged me across the street, motorbikes flowing around us like water around stones.

Crossing the Street Safely

The Vietnamese system for crossing streets is counterintuitive but effective:

Look for the safest place to cross, preferably at a light if available
Step out slowly and confidently (but never run)
Walk at a steady pace
Make eye contact with oncoming drivers
Keep moving forward

The key is understanding that drivers will predict your movement and flow around you—if you suddenly stop or change direction, that’s when accidents happen.

Should You Rent a Motorbike?

This is the question I get asked most frequently about Vietnam. My honest answer? It depends on your experience, confidence, and risk tolerance.

In 2021, I rented a motorbike in Da Lat, thinking the smaller city would be easier to navigate. Within an hour, I found myself in a minor accident after a truck suddenly stopped in front of me. I escaped with just a scraped knee, but the repair costs for the bike came to 1,200,000 VND (about $48).

My advice: If you have no motorbike experience, Vietnam is NOT the place to learn. For experienced riders, start in smaller cities (Hoi An, Da Lat) before attempting Hanoi or HCMC. Always wear a helmet, get proper insurance, and keep your passport secure (don’t leave it as collateral with rental shops).

Ben Thanh area in Ho Chi Minh City – one of the busiest traffic spots for tourists to navigate

Health Safety Concerns in Vietnam

Food and Water Safety

Vietnamese cuisine is one of the country’s greatest treasures, but street food anxiety keeps many travelers confined to tourist restaurants. This is a shame because some of my most memorable meals have been from humble street stalls.

In 2023, I made the rookie mistake of eating raw herbs and vegetables from a street vendor in a small village outside Sapa without checking how they were washed. The resulting digestive issues cost me three days of my trip.

Street Food Safety Tips

Look for busy stalls with high turnover (fresh ingredients)
Watch if locals are eating there
Check if the vendor is using gloves or utensils
Ensure meats are thoroughly cooked
In rural areas, be cautious with raw herbs and vegetables

In 2025, many street food vendors in tourist areas now display hygiene certificates issued by local authorities—look for these green certificates with a QR code that you can scan for verification.

Water and Beverages

Tap water in Vietnam is not safe to drink. Stick to bottled water with intact seals, or bring a portable water filter to reduce plastic waste. I’ve been using a Grayl water purifier for years which has saved me money and reduced my environmental impact.

A great Vietnam tip I learned from a local: the Vietnamese phrase “Không đá” (pronounced “khong da”) means “no ice.” Use this at smaller establishments if you’re concerned about ice made from tap water.

Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Dengue fever remains a concern in Vietnam, particularly during the rainy season (May to November). Cases have been increasing in recent years, with a significant outbreak in southern Vietnam in 2024.

Malaria is now rare in most tourist areas but still exists in some rural and mountainous regions, particularly near the borders with Laos and Cambodia.

Prevention Tips

Use insect repellent containing DEET (20-30%)
Wear long, loose clothing, especially at dawn and dusk
Sleep under mosquito nets in rural areas
Consider permethrin-treated clothing for trekking

Healthcare in Vietnam in 2025

Medical facilities have improved significantly in recent years. Major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi have several international-standard hospitals where English is widely spoken. In 2025, the Franco-Vietnamese Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City and Vinmec International Hospitals continue to be the go-to choices for travelers needing quality care.

However, in rural areas, medical facilities can be basic. For any serious medical emergency in remote areas, evacuation to a major city may be necessary.

Insider tip: Save 400,000-800,000 VND ($16-32) on routine medications by visiting a local pharmacy instead of international clinics. Vietnamese pharmacists in tourist areas often speak enough English to help with basic needs. Just show them the generic name of the medication (not the brand name) for best results.

Solo Female Traveler Safety in Vietnam

As a solo male traveler, I can’t speak directly to the female travel experience, but I’ve interviewed several solo female travelers during my trips to Vietnam for their perspectives.

The consensus is that Vietnam is generally considered one of the safer Southeast Asian countries for women traveling alone. Serious harassment is rare, and violent crime against female tourists is extremely uncommon.

What Female Travelers Tell Me

My friend Sarah, who has traveled solo through Vietnam three times since 2019, shared: “I’ve felt safer walking alone at night in Hanoi than I do in many European capitals. The biggest issue I’ve faced is occasionally being overcharged, not harassment.”

That said, certain precautions are still recommended:

Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites
Be cautious with excessive alcohol consumption in nightlife areas
Use reputable transportation, especially at night
Stay in women-friendly accommodations with good reviews from solo female travelers
Trust your instincts—if a situation feels uncomfortable, leave

Female-Friendly Accommodation Options

In 2025, several hostels and guesthouses specifically market themselves as female-friendly with enhanced security features, female-only dorms, and 24-hour reception. Some recommended options include:

The Common Room Project (Ho Chi Minh City)
Nexy Hostel (Hanoi)
Tribee Bana (Hoi An)

LGBTQ+ Travel Safety in Vietnam

Vietnam has made significant progress in LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance over the past decade. While not as openly progressive as some Western countries, it’s generally considered one of the more LGBTQ+-friendly countries in Southeast Asia.

Homosexuality is legal in Vietnam, and in 2022, the Ministry of Health officially declared that being gay, bisexual or transgender is not a disease and banned conversion therapy. Same-sex marriage is not legally recognized, but a law removing the ban on same-sex marriage came into effect in 2015.

What to Expect as an LGBTQ+ Traveler

Public displays of affection: Vietnamese culture is generally conservative regarding PDA for anyone, regardless of orientation. Holding hands may be acceptable, but kissing in public may draw unwanted attention.
Accommodation: Most hotels won’t have issues with same-sex couples sharing a room.
LGBTQ+ venues: Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi have small but vibrant LGBTQ+ scenes with dedicated bars and events.

My friend Miguel, who visited Vietnam with his husband in 2024, shared: “We experienced zero issues in hotels or restaurants. The younger generation especially seemed completely unfazed. We did keep PDA minimal, but that’s our approach in any new country.”

Natural Disasters and Environmental Hazards

Typhoon Season

Vietnam’s central coast is vulnerable to typhoons, primarily from August to November. In 2023, I was caught in Da Nang during Typhoon Noru, which forced evacuations and caused significant flooding. The experience taught me to take weather warnings extremely seriously in Vietnam.

If you’re traveling during typhoon season:

Monitor weather forecasts regularly
Register with your embassy’s traveler program
Have a backup plan for accommodation inland
Consider travel insurance that covers natural disasters

Flooding

The Mekong Delta and central coastal regions experience regular flooding, particularly from September to December. Hoi An’s Old Town is especially prone to flooding—I’ve seen the water rise from ankle to waist-deep in a matter of hours.

Urban flooding in Ho Chi Minh City has worsened in recent years due to climate change and rapid development. In 2025, certain districts (particularly District 7 and Binh Thanh) continue to experience significant flooding during heavy rains.

Air Quality Concerns

Air pollution remains a challenge, particularly in urban areas. Hanoi regularly experiences poor air quality between December and March, while Ho Chi Minh City’s air quality is generally poor year-round.

If you have respiratory issues or are sensitive to pollution:

Check air quality indexes before and during your trip
Consider bringing a quality mask (N95 or better)
Plan indoor activities on high pollution days
Consider visiting coastal or highland areas for cleaner air

Money and Valuables Safety

Cash, Cards, and Digital Payments

Vietnam remains largely a cash-based society, though digital payments have increased significantly since the pandemic. In 2025, major tourist areas widely accept credit cards and international payment apps, but cash is still king in smaller towns and local establishments.

ATM and Money Exchange Safety

ATM scams and skimming devices occasionally appear in tourist areas. In 2022, I had my card skimmed at an ATM near Bui Vien Street in Ho Chi Minh City, resulting in about $300 in fraudulent charges before I could block my card.

Safety tip: Use ATMs inside banks during business hours when possible. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN, and give the card slot a wiggle to check for skimming devices.

Money-Saving Bank Tip

Here’s an insider tip that’s saved me hundreds in fees: Rather than using just any ATM, seek out Agribank, Vietcombank, or MB Bank ATMs, which charge the lowest fees (around 20,000-50,000 VND per transaction). Avoid ATMs in touristy areas and inside convenience stores, which often charge 150,000-250,000 VND per withdrawal.

Smartphone and Electronics Safety

Smartphone snatching remains one of the most common crimes targeting tourists, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City. Thieves on motorbikes grab phones from people using them while walking or from café tables.

In 2022, I witnessed a phone snatching on Le Loi Street in District 1—the entire theft took less than three seconds as a motorbike slowed just enough for the passenger to grab a phone and speed away.

Smartphone Safety Tips

Never use your phone while walking on busy streets
Sit with your back to a wall in cafés and restaurants
Keep your phone in a zipped pocket when not in use
Consider using a dummy wallet with a small amount of cash for daily expenses
Use hotel safes for passports and extra cash/cards

Three Money-Saving Safety Hacks

Split your money: I keep daily spending cash in a front pocket, emergency cash hidden in a sock or belt, and the bulk of my money in a hidden money belt or hotel safe.
Offline maps and translation: Download Google Maps and Google Translate for offline use. This prevents you from having to pull out your phone constantly in public to check directions.
Photography safety: Use a camera strap that crosses your body, not just hangs around your neck. For smartphones, consider a secure phone leash that attaches to your wrist when taking photos in crowded areas.

Cultural Awareness and Respectful Travel

Understanding Vietnamese Social Norms

One aspect of safety that’s often overlooked is cultural awareness. Respecting local customs not only shows consideration but can also prevent uncomfortable or potentially dangerous misunderstandings.

In 2021, I witnessed a heated argument between a Western tourist and a local shop owner in Hoi An. The tourist had unknowingly insulted the owner by touching their head (considered the most sacred part of the body in Vietnamese culture) while trying to compliment their hat.

Key Cultural Considerations

Remove shoes when entering homes and some religious sites
Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas
Dress modestly when visiting temples and pagodas (shoulders and knees covered)
Don’t point with your finger or feet (considered rude)
Avoid public displays of anger (loss of face is taken very seriously)

Useful Vietnamese Phrases for Safety

Learning a few key phrases can help in emergency situations:

“Cứu tôi!” (kew toy) = Help me!
“Công an” (kong an) = Police
“Bệnh viện” (beng vee-en) = Hospital
“Tôi bị lạc” (toy bee lack) = I am lost
“Xin vui lòng chậm lại” (sin voo-ee long cham lye) = Please slow down (for taxis/drivers)

Politics and Sensitive Topics

Vietnam remains a one-party socialist state with restrictions on political expression. As a visitor, it’s wise to avoid public criticism of the government or discussions about politically sensitive topics, particularly the Vietnam War (called the American War in Vietnam).

In 2019, I made the mistake of asking pointed political questions to a new Vietnamese friend in a public café. While he wasn’t offended, he quietly suggested we change the subject and later explained that such conversations could create problems for local people.

Cultural tip: If Vietnamese people want to discuss sensitive topics with you, let them initiate the conversation, and follow their lead on appropriate settings for such discussions.

Conclusion: My 5-Step Vietnam Safety Action Plan

After eight visits to Vietnam spanning seven years, I’ve developed a simple safety system that has served me well. Here’s my 5-step action plan for staying safe while fully enjoying this remarkable country:

Step 1: Prepare Before You Arrive

Register with your country’s travel advisory service
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation
Download offline maps, translation apps, and the Grab ride-hailing app
Make digital and physical copies of important documents
Research your specific destinations for any recent safety concerns

Step 2: Secure Your First 24 Hours

Arrange airport pickup through your accommodation
Have a small amount of Vietnamese dong before arrival (or exchange at the airport’s official counters)
Stay in well-reviewed accommodation for your first few nights
Take it easy on day one to adjust and observe local patterns

Step 3: Adopt Daily Safety Habits

Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Use trusted transportation methods (Grab, Mai Linh taxis)
Stay hydrated but stick to bottled water
Carry a basic first-aid kit with stomach remedies
Save emergency contacts and your accommodation address in Vietnamese

Step 4: Practice Sustainable Safety

Safety and sustainability often go hand-in-hand in Vietnam:

Use a water purifier rather than buying plastic bottles (safer and eco-friendly)
Support businesses with fair pricing rather than haggling excessively (reduces scam incentives)
Choose accredited tour operators that prioritize guest safety and environmental practices
Use a reef-safe sunscreen and mosquito repellent (better for you and Vietnam’s ecosystems)

Step 5: Connect With Locals and Other Travelers

Join local walking tours to learn safe navigation
Connect with expat groups on social media for current safety information
Make friends with locals who can provide cultural context and warnings
Share your itinerary with someone you trust

The truth is, Vietnam is one of the safest countries I’ve visited in Southeast Asia. The vast majority of my experiences have been overwhelmingly positive, and the few negative incidents I’ve encountered were largely avoidable with better preparation.

What makes Vietnam special isn’t just its stunning landscapes or delicious food—it’s the resilient, resourceful, and genuinely kind people who call it home. With reasonable precautions and an open mind, your journey through Vietnam can be not just safe, but truly transformative.

Frequently Asked Questions About Safety in Vietnam

Is Vietnam safe for solo travelers?

Yes, Vietnam is generally very safe for solo travelers. The country has a well-established tourist infrastructure, and violent crime against tourists is rare. However, solo travelers should still take standard precautions against petty theft and scams, particularly in major cities and tourist areas.

What are the most dangerous areas in Vietnam for tourists?

Vietnam doesn’t have many truly “dangerous” areas for tourists, but areas with higher risks of petty crime include parts of District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City (particularly around Bui Vien Walking Street late at night), certain areas of the Old Quarter in Hanoi after dark, and some tourist beaches in Nha Trang at night. Remote border areas with Laos and Cambodia occasionally have reports of robbery but are rarely visited by tourists.

Is tap water safe to drink in Vietnam?

No, tap water is not safe to drink anywhere in Vietnam. Stick to bottled water with sealed caps, boiled water, or water you’ve purified yourself with a reliable filter or purification system. This applies to ice as well, though most established restaurants in tourist areas use commercially produced ice made from purified water.

How safe is the food in Vietnam?

Vietnamese food is generally safe to eat, especially in established restaurants and busy street food stalls with high turnover. To minimize risk, eat at places popular with locals, ensure meat is thoroughly cooked, and be cautious with raw vegetables and unpeeled fruits in rural areas. Carrying some basic stomach medication is advisable for any traveler to Southeast Asia.

Is it safe to use credit cards in Vietnam?

Credit card use is increasingly safe in Vietnam, especially in higher-end establishments and tourist areas. However, card skimming does occur. Use cards in reputable businesses, keep your card in sight during transactions, and check your statements regularly. Notify your bank of your travel plans to prevent legitimate charges from being flagged as fraudulent.

How safe is public transportation in Vietnam?

Public transportation safety varies. Trains are generally safe but can be slow. Long-distance buses range from luxurious sleeper buses to cramped minivans with questionable safety standards—research companies like Futa Bus (The Sinh Tourist) or Hanh Cafe for better options. In cities, metered taxis from reputable companies (Mai Linh, Vinasun) and ride-hailing apps like Grab are safer than random motorbike taxis.

What should I do in case of a medical emergency in Vietnam?

For medical emergencies, contact your travel insurance provider’s emergency assistance line first. In major cities, head to international clinics or hospitals like Vinmec International or FV Hospital. For serious emergencies, call 115 for an ambulance, though response times and quality vary significantly. Always keep your travel insurance information and emergency contacts accessible.

Is Vietnam safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?

Vietnam is relatively safe for LGBTQ+ travelers compared to many Southeast Asian countries. Same-sex relationships are not criminalized, and there’s growing acceptance, particularly in urban areas. That said, public displays of affection (regardless of orientation) are generally frowned upon in Vietnamese culture. LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise discretion in rural or conservative areas.

How has safety in Vietnam changed since the pandemic?

Since the pandemic, Vietnam has made several improvements to tourist safety, including better regulation of tour operators, increased presence of tourist police in popular areas, and more digital payment options reducing the need to carry cash. However, the pandemic’s economic impact has increased petty theft in some areas, and new scams targeting tourists have emerged.

Are there areas in Vietnam I should avoid due to unexploded ordnance?

Unexploded ordnance (UXO) remains a concern in some remote areas along the former DMZ near the Laos border, particularly in Quang Tri province. However, tourist areas and well-traveled paths are safe. Never venture off marked trails in known UXO areas, and always follow local guides’ instructions when trekking in central Vietnam’s remote regions.