Quick Overview

Vietnam, with its rich historical background, provides travelers with a distinct and unforgettable experience. The country's remarkably varied terrain allows for diverse activities: sliding down sand dunes in the morning, enjoying a beachside walk by noon, and exploring a UNESCO heritage town by afternoon.

Vietnam holds a special place in our hearts as it is where my partner and I first met, making it forever memorable for us. To ensure you have an incredible trip, we've gathered essential information to help you plan and make the most of your visit to Vietnam.

Vietnam Travel Essentials

Visa: Vietnam's visa regulations are frequently updated, so it's advisable to confirm the latest requirements with your embassy or check the official government website.

As of 2019, citizens from certain countries can obtain a visa-free entry for a limited number of days. If you plan to stay longer, you will need to apply for a visa in advance, either through an agency or via the newly introduced e-visa program.

• 30 days: Eligible countries include Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore.
• 21 days: Available for citizens of the Philippines.
• 15 days: Applies to travelers from Japan, South Korea, Denmark, Russia, Sweden, Norway, Finland, the UK, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain.
• 14 days: Granted to visitors from Brunei and Myanmar.

Please be aware that if you receive a visa-free entry upon arrival, it cannot be extended. If you wish to stay longer, you will need to leave the country. For stays of 30 days or more, it's advisable to apply for a tourist visa at least three days in advance. However, since visa regulations are subject to change, it's important to check the official government website for the most up-to-date information.

Safety: Overall, Vietnam is a relatively safe destination for travelers. While there are some scams to be mindful of, motorbike-related accidents are the most common concern. Riding a motorbike in Vietnam is a recommended experience, but ensure you have a valid license from your home country, as most travel insurance policies won't cover you otherwise.

We suggest exploring trusting company who offer convenient monthly plans with comprehensive coverage. We've personally used them for months and highly recommend their services.

Language: In major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, many people speak English fairly well, making travel relatively easy. However, as you venture into smaller towns and mountainous areas, English proficiency decreases. Therefore, learning a few basic Vietnamese words can be very helpful. Essential words to know include "petrol," "hotel," and "bathroom."

Transportation: Getting from one place to another in Vietnam is generally straightforward and quite efficient.

Communication and Connectivity: Before your trip, it's advisable to arrange a Vietnamese SIM card in advance to ensure you don't lose internet connection while checking hotel services, restaurants, and the places you'll visit. Alternatively, you can opt for an eSIM, which is easy to activate and more affordable than a traditional SIM card. You can explore and choose from the eSIM Vietnam Travel Prepaid options on eSim86, depending on the duration of your travel.

Vietnam Trip Planning

Best Time to Go

Vietnam is a year-round destination, offering a mix of sunshine and rain during any season. However, the ideal times to visit are from February to April and August to October, when temperatures are more moderate and rainfall is lighter.

Budget Considerations

Traveling in Vietnam can fit any budget, whether you're looking for a cost-effective or more luxurious experience. A reasonable daily budget ranges from $25-30. If you stick to street food and hostels, you'll find Vietnam to be very affordable. While the currency conversions might seem confusing at first (you'll feel like a millionaire in Vietnam), you'll quickly adapt.

Essential Packing List for Traveling in Vietnam

As we emphasize in all our packing guides, avoid overpacking. Like other Southeast Asian countries, you won’t need to bring much, as you can easily buy what you need there. Hoi An, in particular, is famous for its excellent tailors, so if Vietnam is your only destination, leave some room in your luggage to get a few custom items made at a fraction of the cost.

No matter what, be sure to pack a few quick-dry clothes, a durable rain jacket (check out our recommendations for the best options), and a good pair of hiking boots or trainers.

Vietnam is a rugged and adventurous destination, apart from its bustling cities. With that in mind, here’s our comprehensive packing list for Vietnam, along with some tips if you’re planning to ride a motorbike during your stay.

Best Things to Do in Vietnam

Vietnam, with its vast and diverse landscape, offers an abundance of incredible experiences, making it a perfect destination for both cultural immersion and adventure.

To ensure you don’t miss out on anything unforgettable, here’s a list of top activities to do in Vietnam.

Embark on a Culinary Adventure

After Thailand, Vietnam stands out as one of my favorite places for street food in Southeast Asia. The street food is not only delicious but also extremely affordable, with a steaming bowl of authentic pho starting at just $1.

In the complete guidebook linked at the bottom of this page, I’ve included some of my favorite food stall and restaurant recommendations in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Hoi An. Whether you’re looking for the best Bun Cha in Hanoi or the top soup vendor in town, embarking on a food journey in Vietnam is truly a cultural highlight.

Insider Tip: If you’re unsure about what to try, we highly recommend joining a food tour to get acquainted with the local Vietnamese delicacies. Below, you’ll find a few of our top food tour recommendations in various cities.

Top 5 Foods You Should Try in Hanoi

At the end, you can explore the Top 5 Travel Destinations in Vietnam.