Is it safe to travel alone in Vietnam?

Yes, Vietnam is very safe for solo travelers. Use common sense, keep your phone tucked away from the road to prevent snatch-and-grabs, and stick to well-reviewed hostels.

Do I need cash or cards?

Cash is king. Always carry Vietnamese Dong (VND) for street food and markets. Larger hotels and malls take cards, but you will pay a 3% fee.

How to plan a 3-week Vietnam backpacking route

Travel north to south or vice-versa to avoid backtracking. Spend one week in the north for mountains and bays, one week in the center for history and tailoring, and one week in the south for the delta and bustling city life.

Choose your direction. Pick a starting point (Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City) and stick to it. Flights are cheap between major cities, but taking a night train or bus for one leg allows you to see the countryside.
Master the transport. Download the 12Go Asia app to book buses and trains in advance. For inner-city travel, download Grab; it’s the local version of Uber and prevents price haggling.
Apply for your visa early. Apply for the E-visa through the official government portal at least 10 business days before your departure. Do not use third-party 'urgent' sites; they are often scams.
Balance your pace. Don't try to see every province. Stick to 5-6 major hubs to avoid spending your entire trip on a bus.

Is it safe to travel alone in Vietnam?: Yes, Vietnam is very safe for solo travelers. Use common sense, keep your phone tucked away from the road to prevent snatch-and-grabs, and stick to well-reviewed hostels.
Do I need cash or cards?: Cash is king. Always carry Vietnamese Dong (VND) for street food and markets. Larger hotels and malls take cards, but you will pay a 3% fee.