Just like when you travel to other countries, going solo in Vietnam can be both exciting and a bit tricky. Cause you are single traveler, so it can be challenging. Safety is a big worry, especially for solo female travelers in Vietnam. But don’t stress too much! This safety guidelines for female travelers is here to ease all your concerns. Whether it’s your first or fifth time in this amazing country, you can be sure that you’ll have a fantastic solo trip in Vietnam.
Overall about safety in Vietnam:
In Vietnam, you’ll find that it’s a pretty safe place to be. The police are around, and serious crimes are rare. Violent crimes rarely occur and the main safety concern for solo female travelers in Vietnam is petty crimes such as pickpocket, theft and bag snatching. These crimes usually appear in crowded areas and on public transport when travelers are distracted. Good news is that the rate of petty crimes is still relatively low.
However, in Sai Gon, you might need to watch out for small things like phone, wallet, … to avoid pickpocketing. Remember: Just keep an eye on your belongings, and you’ll be fine.
When it comes to natural disasters, Vietnam doesn’t usually have big problems like earthquakes or tornadoes. But in some areas, especially during the rainy season, there might be floods. Don’t worry too much, though.
If you ever get sick or need to see a doctor, the big cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang have hospitals where the staff can speak English. So, overall, Vietnam is a nice and safe place to explore but for female travelers, you definitely need a safety guidelines.
Safety Guidelines For Solo Female Travelers In Vietnam:
1. Stay Informed with Government’s Travel Advice:
- Before embarking on your solo adventure in Vietnam, check your government’s travel advice for the latest updates and information. This ensures that you are well-informed about any potential risks or special precautions. Government travel advice typically covers a range of topics, including safety conditions, local regulations, and health recommendations. This step becomes particularly important in staying abreast of any potential risks or special precautions that may be advised for solo female travelers.
Tips: Government travel advice often provides insights into current safety conditions, local regulations, and health recommendations. Staying informed allows you to make decisions based on the most up-to-date information.
2. Research Your Accommodation:
- Carefully research and choose your lodgings in advance by reading reviews from other travelers. This step ensures that you stay in safe and reputable places during your journey. Avoid last-minute booking. It can be risky to ignore guests’ reviews as you become more vulnerable when you don’t know what to expect.
Tips: Look for reviews that specifically mention safety, cleanliness, and the overall experience of solo female travelers. Consider accommodations with positive feedback in these areas for added peace of mind.
3. Make a backup Copy of Your Identification and Vital Official Documents:
- To avoid potential issues related to lost documents, create physical and digital copies of essential documents such as your passport, visa, and ID.
Tips: Keep a set of physical copies in a separate location from the originals and have digital copies stored on a secure cloud service or email them to yourself. This ensures access to important information in case of emergencies.
4. Respect Local Culture:
- Understanding and respecting the local culture is crucial. In Vietnam, dressing modestly is essential to adhere to traditional values.
Tips: Familiarize yourself with the dress code norms, especially in religious or conservative areas. This not only ensures cultural respect but also enhances your overall experience.
5. Enjoy Nightlife Responsibly:
- If you plan to explore the nightlife, do so responsibly. The buzzing nightlife of big cities like Hanoi (Ta Hien street) and Bui Vien Street in Ho Chi Minh City will let you loosen up and have some fun. However, as a solo female traveler in Vietnam, only you are responsible for yourself. Moderate your drinking and be aware of your surroundings.
Tips: Drink in moderation and be sure to know illegal possession of drugs (including marijuana) can bring serious consequences in Vietnam. Alcohol poisoning do happen occasionally because of the presence fake alcohols so it’s best to be wary of some branded liquor with a too-good-to-be-true price tag.
6. Guard Your Belongings:
- Protect your valuables by keeping them out of sight, securing your belongings, and staying alert, especially in busy areas.
Tips: Use anti-theft bags, keep important items close, and avoid displaying expensive belongings in public. Vigilance in crowded places minimizes the risk of theft. Carry little cash. Lock your bags using padlocks even if they’re in your hotel room. Take extra precaution when going up and down public transport, taxis and cyclos as bag snatching thieves often take advantage of these moments to grab your belongings and run away. Keep your hands on your bag at all times, in a secure position, especially in crowded areas.
7. Be Prepared:
- Research the areas you plan to visit, have emergency contacts on hand, and consider bringing non-threatening protection items, such as a whistle or personal alarm.
Tips: Research is always a good protection method. Learn about the neighborhoods around your accommodation in Vietnam. Do some research about where you’re heading next as such preparation will prove to be helpful in case of a taxi scam. It’ll also help to note down emergency contacts if you ever need assistance such as the police (113), ambulance (115) and your embassy’s phone number. It’s your prerogative if you wish to equip yourself with a Swiss army knife or some non-irritant spray. Note that pepper spray and possession of guns are illegal in Vietnam however.
8. Stay Connected with Your Circle:
- Maintain regular communication with friends or family members. Share your whereabouts and updates for added security during your solo journey.
Tips: Use messaging apps, social media, or regular check-ins to keep your loved ones informed about your travels. This connection provides reassurance and quick communication in case of any concerns. It’s smart to purchase a sim card or esim from a prestige provider in order to access to mobile data when you arrive at the Vietnam airport to be connected wherever you are in Vietnam. Be sure to get them from kiosks of reliable providers like Viettel, Mobiphone and Vinaphone, many of which offer affordable tourist packages.
9. Choosing the legit travel agency:
- Selecting a reputable travel agency in Vietnam is vital for a smooth and enjoyable journey. Begin by researching and reading reviews to gauge the agency’s reliability and customer satisfaction. Verify the agency’s credentials and ensure transparency in communication regarding services and costs. Look for agencies that offer personalized itineraries and responsive customer support. Be cautious of red flags such as unclear pricing or promises that seem too good to be true.
Tips: Seek recommendations from official website such as Tripadvisor or Touradar,…or from fellow travelers and, if possible, visit the agency’s physical office for added assurance. Taking these steps ensures a trustworthy and positive experience with your chosen travel agency in Vietnam.
The Vietlong Travel Team hopes that the safety guidelines for female travelers provided above can assist you in making informed decisions about traveling to Vietnam, especially for independent female travelers. Vietnam is a wonderful destination, boasting popular attractions like the Ha Giang Loop, Halong Bay, and Sapa Town, often showcased across various media platforms. However, amidst the positives, unexpected situations may arise. That’s why it’s crucial to remember that you have a friendly companion in Vietnam, always willing to help whenever you need assistance.
