Quick Summary
- Overall: Vietnam is very safe for tourists
- Main risks: Petty theft, traffic, and tourist scams
- Emergency: Police 113, Ambulance 115, Fire 114
- Best practice: Use Grab app for taxis, agree prices upfront
Common Scams to Avoid
Taxi Meter Tricks
Some taxis have rigged meters or take long routes. Solution: Use Grab app exclusively. Price is fixed before you ride.
Shoe Shine / Massage Offers
Street vendors offer services then demand high prices. Solution: Politely decline and keep walking. Don't engage.
Motorbike Rentals
Some shops claim damage you didn't cause. Solution: Take photos/video before renting. Use reputable shops recommended by your hotel.
Currency Confusion
Vietnamese Dong notes look similar. 500,000 and 20,000 are both blue. Solution: Check each note carefully. 1 USD ≈ 24,500 VND.
General Safety Tips
- Traffic: Look both ways constantly. Motorbikes don't always stop. Walk slowly and predictably—drivers will go around you.
- Bag snatching: Wear bags cross-body on the building side, not the street side. Keep phones secure.
- Food safety: Eat where locals eat. Busy = fresh ingredients. Avoid ice in drinks at street stalls.
- Valuables: Use hotel safe for passport and extra cash. Carry a photocopy of your passport.
- Prices: Always agree on price before services (tours, rides, food). Get it in writing if possible.
Emergency Contacts
Police
113
Ambulance
115
Fire
114
Tourist Hotline
1900 6868
Official Resources
Ready to explore safely?
View destinationsMore guides: