Can I bring or use e-cigarettes in Vietnam?

Starting in 2025, the production, import, and use of all electronic cigarettes (both heated tobacco and liquid vapes) are completely banned in Vietnam. Violations can result in confiscation and fines up to 2,000,000 VND (approx. $80 USD).

What license do I need to drive a motorbike in Vietnam?

To drive a motorbike legally, you need a valid motorcycle license from your home country AND an International Driving Permit (IDP) stamped with category 'A' (Motorcycle). An IDP based on a regular car license is not valid.

What is the duty-free alcohol limit for entering Vietnam?

For travelers over 18, the limits are 1.5 liters for alcohol over 20% ABV, 2.0 liters for alcohol under 20% ABV, or 3.0 liters of beer.

Is street food safe to eat in Vietnam?

Street food is generally delicious, but hygiene can vary. Avoid ice in drinks (say 'Khong da'), choose stalls that cook food to order, and eat at busy places with high turnover to ensure freshness.

What should I know about taking a Cyclo in Vietnam?

Always negotiate the price before getting on. Agree on the total price for the total number of people and duration. Confirm the amount by showing it on a calculator to avoid scams later.

Things Not to Do in Vietnam: 7 Safety Rules & New 2025 Regulations

Vietnam is a captivating destination visited by travelers worldwide for its affordable prices, delicious cuisine, and high-quality resorts. The warm weather and exotic landscapes are perfect for escaping the stress of daily life. However, traveling with only excitement in mind can lead to unexpected and difficult situations.

Unfamiliarity with local laws or culture can lead to unintentional mistakes or make you a target for crime. To ensure your precious time and money result in fond memories rather than regrets, we have compiled 7 essential safety rules you must know for a safe trip to Vietnam.

Beautiful islands and cruise ships in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Vietnam Travel Safety Tips

Smoking and Vaping Regulations: Avoid Heavy Fines

If you are a smoker planning a trip to Vietnam, checking tobacco regulations is crucial. In particular, the use and import of all types of e-cigarettes will be completely banned in Vietnam starting in 2025. Regulations have become very strict, and issues may arise during immigration checks at the airport, so special caution is required.

Man with a beard holding an electronic cigarette

Vaping Ban in Vietnam

Regular Cigarettes: Major public facilities such as hospitals, schools, and bus terminals, as well as most indoor spaces like restaurants and cafes, are legally designated as non-smoking areas. If caught smoking in these areas, a fine of 100,000 to 300,000 VND (approx. $4 - $12 USD) may be imposed. While street smoking is relatively common, it is safer to use designated smoking areas.

Electronic Cigarettes (Vapes/Heated Tobacco): The most critical change concerns e-cigarettes. From 2025, the production, import, and use of both heated tobacco products (like IQOS) and liquid e-cigarettes (Vapes) will be completely banned for public health reasons. This applies to tourists without exception. Simply possessing one can lead to a crackdown, and fines up to 2,000,000 VND (approx. $80 USD) may be imposed. For a safe trip, we strongly recommend leaving all types of e-cigarettes at home.

We strongly recommend leaving all types of e-cigarettes at home for a safe trip.

Motorbike Driving: You Might Be Driving Without a License?

The sight of motorbikes filling the streets of Vietnam is a unique scene that catches the eye of travelers. You might dream of riding a motorbike like a local, but grabbing the handlebars without knowing the laws is extremely dangerous.

Mandatory License Requirements: To legally drive a motorbike in Vietnam, you need both of the following:

A valid motorcycle license from your home country
An International Driving Permit (IDP) with the 'A' (Motorcycle) category stamped

An IDP issued based on a regular car driver's license (Category B) is NOT valid for driving motorbikes.

You will be punished for unlicensed driving during police checks.

Always carry your home country's license, IDP, and passport when driving.

Woman riding a motorbike on a Vietnam street

Motorbike Regulations

Fines and Penalties for Motorbikes

Failure to wear a helmet applies to both the driver and the passenger and is a common reason for police stops. If caught, a fine of 200,000 to 300,000 VND (approx. $8 - $12 USD) is imposed. A more serious issue is driving without a proper license. If caught, you face fines and your motorbike may be confiscated on the spot. Most importantly, remember that insurance does not cover accidents if you are driving illegally, which could lead to a worst-case scenario where you are personally liable for massive medical bills and settlement costs.

Customs Declaration and Duty-Free Limits: Avoiding Trouble on Arrival

Thinking "this much should be fine" and bringing in items exceeding the duty-free limit can waste time and money right at the airport. Vietnam applies duty-free limits relatively strictly, so check your luggage before departure. If you exceed any of the limits below, you must go to the 'Red Channel' at customs and declare them voluntarily.

Vietnam Duty-Free Limit Check

Duty-Free Allowances for Entering Vietnam

Alcohol (18+ only)
- 20% ABV or higher: 1.5 Liters
- Less than 20% ABV: 2.0 Liters
- Beer: 3.0 Liters
Tobacco (18+ only)
- Cigarettes: 200 sticks (1 carton)
- Cigars: 20 sticks
Cash
- Exceeding $5,000 USD or equivalent in other foreign currencies
- Exceeding 15,000,000 VND
Other Personal Items
- Total value of goods purchased abroad exceeds 10,000,000 VND (approx. $400 USD)

If you exceed any of the above limits, you must proceed to the 'Red Channel' and declare them.

Caution! If you exceed limits and pass through the 'Green Channel' (Nothing to Declare) without declaring, your items may be confiscated, and fines will be imposed. Declaration is mandatory.

Many travelers get confused here. Items purchased at duty-free shops at your departure airport are only exempt from taxes in that country. They are considered "imports into Vietnam" and are subject to Vietnam's duty-free limits. Regardless of where you bought them, ensure the total amount of goods you bring into Vietnam does not exceed the limit.

Pickpockets and Snatch Theft: Targeted When Distracted

Major cities in Vietnam are relatively safe, but pickpocketing and motorbike snatch theft targeting careless tourists are the crimes to watch out for. Walking while looking at your smartphone or carrying a bag carelessly makes you an easy target.

Smartphone Safety: Using a smartphone while walking is like advertising, "Take this from me." If you need to check a map or message, step inside a shop or stand with your back to a wall. If you must use it while walking, hold the phone with the hand away from the road to reduce the risk.
Bag Safety: Wear your bag cross-body with the bag positioned in front of your body. In crowded markets or on buses, wear backpacks on your front as well. Avoid tote bags or shoulder bags that hang loosely on one shoulder, as they are easy targets for motorbike snatchers. Never leave smartphones or wallets on tables at outdoor cafes or restaurants.

Street Food Hygiene: How to Enjoy Without Getting Sick

Street food is a major highlight of Vietnam travel, but poor hygiene can lead to "traveler's diarrhea" and ruin your trip. Since water quality differs fundamentally from many other countries, be especially careful with water and ice.

Street food at a Vietnamese night market

Street Food Hygiene

Ice and Water: The biggest cause of stomach upset is often ice of uncertain hygiene. It is best to avoid ice at street stalls. Get in the habit of saying "Không đá" (No ice) when ordering drinks. Free iced tea, known as "Trà đá", is likely made with local tap water, so it's safer not to drink it. Always buy sealed bottled water, and we recommend using bottled water for brushing your teeth as well.

Choosing a Restaurant: When choosing a street food stall, places that cook to order in front of you are more hygienic than those with pre-made food. Also, choose places crowded with locals rather than just tourists. High turnover usually means fresher ingredients.

Weather-Related Illnesses: Dengue Fever and Heatstroke

Vietnam's hot and humid subtropical climate can cause health issues due to mosquitoes or strong sun. You can avoid these with simple precautions.

Disease Prevention

Dengue Fever: There is no vaccine or specific cure for Dengue, so avoiding mosquito bites is the best prevention. The mosquitoes that carry Dengue are active during the day, so wear long sleeves and pants and use repellent frequently. If you experience sudden high fever, headache, or muscle pain, visit a hospital immediately.
Heatstroke: The sun in Vietnam is intense. Avoid excessive outdoor activities during the hottest hours, 11 AM to 3 PM. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. If you feel dizzy or nauseous, stop activity immediately and rest in a cool place with plenty of water.

Excessive Touting: Dealing with It Firmly but Politely

Walking the lively streets of Vietnam, many vendors will approach you. While mostly genuine, some can be persistent.

Cyclo driving on a Vietnamese night street

Avoid Touts

How to Refuse: Avoid eye contact and gently shake your head. If they persist, say "Không, Cảm ơn" (No, Thank you) with a firm, serious face. Showing hesitation can prolong the interaction, so once you refuse, keep walking.
Riding a Cyclo: If you want to experience a Cyclo, "Bargain First, Ride Later" is the rule. Clearly agree on "Total People, Total Time, and Final Price" before getting on. To avoid scams claiming the price was "per person" later, type the agreed number on your phone calculator and get confirmation from the driver.

We have covered 7 essential safety tips for Vietnam travel. While it may seem like a lot, these points do not mean Vietnam is dangerous. By taking a moment to understand local conditions before you leave, you can avoid most inconveniences and focus solely on the joy of travel. Prepare well and make unforgettable memories in Vietnam.