Safety in Vietnam

When it comes to safety in Vietnam, staying aware of key safety issues will ensure a trouble-free experience, although the country is relatively stable and peaceful for expats. The 2023 Global Peace Index placed Vietnam 41st out of 163 countries. Most safety concerns stem from underdeveloped infrastructure and poverty in certain areas, rather than organised crime.

Petty theft in Vietnam

Petty theft poses a risk in Vietnam’s urban areas. Tourists and Western newcomers often fall prey to pickpockets in busy areas of Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Thieves target crowded spots with bag slashing tactics, especially during holiday periods like Tet (Lunar New Year) and Christmas.

Steer clear of secluded areas when alone. Leave flashy jewellery and watches at home, and keep phones and cameras tucked away. Motorcycle snatch-and-grab thieves operate frequently, so hold bags in front of you or away from street traffic. Lock your passport and other vital documents in your hotel safe rather than carrying them.

Watch out at known hotspots: Ben Thanh Market, Binh Tay Market, the Backpackers District (Bui Vien, De Tham, and Pham Ngu Lao Streets), Dong Khoi Street, and the Marble Mountains. 

Scams in Vietnam

Scams in Vietnam target fresh arrivals, with tourists and expats facing slick cons from the moment they land. Knowing these tricks helps you dodge unwanted drama and expenses during your stay.

Common scams in Vietnam include:

• Fake charity collectors asking for donations
• Taxi drivers refusing to use meters, then demanding outrageous fares. Always insist on meter use or agree on a price upfront to avoid arguments later.
• Strangers offering restaurant or shop recommendations that lead to inflated bills
• Counterfeit Grab taxi operators, especially at airports. Book only through official apps and verify your driver matches the app profile.
• Locals inviting you for ‘authentic’ tea or coffee experiences that end with shocking bills
• Cyclo drivers quoting tiny initial fares before demanding much more at journey’s end
• Shoe shiners who grab your footwear without permission, then charge 10 times the normal rate
• Sellers pretending to have disabilities or using children to hawk fake goods
• Shops selling ‘leather’ items with plastic interiors behind genuine leather fronts
• Massage parlours with bait-and-switch pricing after services are delivered

Safety on transport in Vietnam

Safety on Vietnam’s roads is a concern, and the country is notorious for road traffic accidents, especially in its urban areas. Try to avoid driving until you become familiar with driving conditions and road etiquette in the country.

Motorbikes are one of Vietnam’s main modes of transport, with over 74 million motorcycles in the country – more than the adult population. While riding a motorbike is the fastest and most efficient way to navigate city streets, it’s also the most dangerous. Motorcycle accidents account for over 60 percent of road crashes in Vietnam. Although it’s illegal to be on a motorcycle without wearing a helmet, compliance rates vary by region, with some estimates showing only about 30 percent proper helmet usage in certain areas.

For safer transport options, consider using reputable ride-sharing apps like Grab (the most popular), GoViet, or Be, or established taxi companies like Mai Linh and Vinasun that have their own booking apps. Pre-booking via apps is generally safer than hailing taxis on the street and provides more reliable and transparent pricing.

Transport and Driving in Vietnam

Natural disasters in Vietnam

Natural disasters in Vietnam pose a significant risk, particularly during typhoon season, which runs from June through November. Vietnam is prone to typhoons, flooding, and landslides, with recent events demonstrating their destructive potential. In 2024, Super Typhoon Yagi was one of the strongest storms to hit Vietnam in 70 years, causing severe flooding, landslides, and affecting millions of people across northern and central parts of the country.

Keep an eye out for weather alerts during storm season, particularly if travelling to coastal or mountainous regions. Follow evacuation orders when issued by local authorities, and avoid travelling to high-risk areas during severe weather warnings.

Weather in Vietnam

Health and environmental concerns in Vietnam

Health and environmental concerns in Vietnam include air pollution, which is a significant issue in urban areas. Short-term exposure to poor air quality can irritate your eyes and throat, and those with underlying cardiorespiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or heart conditions may experience exacerbated symptoms.

To protect yourself, regularly check the Air Quality Index (AQI) through apps or websites before planning outdoor activities. Consider wearing a well-fitted N95 mask during periods of heavy pollution, especially if you have respiratory conditions. Limit prolonged or strenuous exercise outdoors on heavily polluted days. If possible, use air purifiers in your living space to maintain better indoor air quality.

Healthcare in Vietnam