Do and don'ts in Vietnam?

In Vietnam, do dress modestly at religious sites, remove shoes before entering homes/temples, eat local food (slurping noodles is okay!), bargain respectfully at markets, and use your hands (not feet) to point; don't show public affection, point with feet, lose your temper, criticize the government, give gifts in black/yellow, or take photos of military sites. Be mindful of traffic, don't trust tap water, and be aware of petty theft by keeping valuables secure.

What to be careful of in Vietnam?

Safety and security

• Terrorism in Vietnam. Although there is no recent history of terrorism in Vietnam, attacks cannot be ruled out. ...
• Protecting yourself and your belongings. ...
• Drink spiking and sexual assault. ...
• Methanol poisoning. ...
• Job scams. ...
• Transfers from airports and stations. ...
• Personal ID. ...
• Illegal drugs penalties.

What to not bring to Vietnam?

Prohibited items include:

• Explosives and items containing explosives.
• Flammable substances in the form of gases, liquids or solids.
• Oxidizers, organic peroxides and related items.
• Corrosives, infectious or toxic substances and related items.
• Radioactive materials, magnetized materials.

Is it okay to wear red in Vietnam?

Yes, red is considered lucky in Vietnamese culture and is perfectly acceptable to wear.

What is the 3-3-3 rule for clothes?

The "333 rule" in clothing refers to two popular minimalist fashion concepts: the viral TikTok trend of using 3 tops, 3 bottoms, and 3 shoes to create numerous outfits (9 items total) for styling practice, and the more extensive Project 333, where you select 33 items (including clothes, shoes, and accessories) to wear for three months, excluding essentials like underwear, workout gear, and sleepwear, to simplify your wardrobe and reduce decision fatigue. Both methods focus on versatility, quality over quantity, and creating a functional capsule wardrobe.

21 Tips I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Vietnam

How should female tourists dress in Vietnam?

Packing tips for female travelers to Vietnam

Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to stay comfortable in hot and humid weather. Pack versatile clothing that can be layered for cooler evenings. Include at least one modest outfit for visiting Vietnamese temples.

What is the 5 4 3 2 1 rule packing?

The 54321 packing rule is a travel strategy for creating a versatile capsule wardrobe, suggesting you pack 5 tops, 4 bottoms, 3 layering pieces/shoes, 2 bags/dresses, and 1 of each accessory (like sunglasses, hat, or swimsuit) to simplify packing, reduce overpacking, and easily mix-and-match outfits for a trip, often fitting into a carry-on. It's a flexible formula, easily adjustable for different trip lengths, destinations, and weather by swapping categories, like adding more swimsuits for a beach trip or more outerwear for cold weather.
 

What to avoid eating in Vietnam?

TOP DRINK OR FOOD TO AVOID IN VIETNAM FOR A SAFE FOOD TOUR

• Tap Water. ...
• Block Ice. ...
• Uncooked Vegetables and unwashed herbs. ...
• Uncooked seafood. ...
• Raw Blood Pudding (Tiet Canh) ...
• Dog Meat. ...
• Wild animals and strange meat. ...
• 8. Fruits with edible skins.

What are some taboos in Vietnam?

2. Taboos in Vietnamese culture on special occasions

• Avoid breaking things: This symbolizes separation and bad luck.
• Don't say negative or unlucky words: These will affect your entire year.
• Avoid leaving food unfinished: This can bring hunger or hardship.

Are bed bugs common in Vietnam?

Bed bugs are not only in Vietnam but also other Asian, African countries. These pests are most often encountered in budget hostels, older guesthouses, shared dormitories, and occasionally even in hotels with insufficient pest control.

How do I prepare my stomach for Vietnam?

Many travelers experience no stomach troubles on a visit to Vietnam. Still, it's a good idea to keep diarrhea medicine with you. If you're feeling uncertain, there are medications like Travelan that you can take before a meal. Rehydration salts and Pepto-Bismol can help alleviate symptoms faster.

Can you brush your teeth with tap water in Vietnam?

Brushing Teeth with Tap Water in Vietnam

Brushing teeth is a basic hygiene activity, yet in Vietnam, its safety hinges on the source of water used. Many people brush with tap water without issue, but for travelers and sensitive individuals, caution is advised.

How long would $100 last in Vietnam?

Your $100 can go a long way in Vietnam. Budget travelers can expect to spend up to $25 a day on food and lodging. Middle-budget spenders can enjoy good restaurant food, hire cabs, and stay comfortably in good hotels for about $35-65 a day.

What to avoid wearing in Vietnam?

Dress as the Vietnamese do

Visible undergarments, sheer fabrics and skimpy attire will not endear you to your Vietnamese hosts and acquaintances. Observing the locals where you are staying will give you a good idea of what is acceptable in terms of clothing and coverage.

How do you not get diarrhea in Vietnam?

Prevention

1. Don't consume food from street vendors.
2. Don't consume unpasteurized milk and dairy products, including ice cream.
3. Don't eat raw or undercooked meat, fish and shellfish.
4. Don't eat moist food at room temperature, such as sauces and buffet offerings.
5. Eat foods that are well cooked and served hot.

What not to drink in Vietnam?

Do not drink tap water or eat raw food in Vietnam. The tap water here is not safe to drink, so you should always opt for bottled water or boiled water. You should also avoid ice cubes, unless you are sure they are made from purified water.

What is the 7 rule for outfits?

It is a very simple set of parameters to help you build better outfits. The goal is to get to seven or eight points in your outfit. Each item in your outfit is worth one point. Statement pieces are worth two points.

What is the golden rule of packing?

This may seem an ambitiously small suitcase, but the golden rule of packing is to always take half the clothes you were planning to bring (and twice the money).

Should you bring toilet paper to Vietnam?

Tips for Using Squat Toilets in Vietnam:

First rule of squat toilets: BYOTP—bring your own toilet paper. Public facilities often don't supply it, and the last thing you want is to realize this too late! A small kit with travel-sized tissues, wipes, and hand sanitizer can save the day and help you freshen up afterward.

Can I wear flip flops in Vietnam?

Although flip flops are casual shoes, they can come in handy for many reasons while you're in Vietnam. Aside from keeping you cool, flip flops are also easy to slide off and on. If you're visiting a lot of religious sites or local Vietnamese homes, it's custom to remove your shoes before entering.

What kind of bag is best for Vietnam?

If your trip to Vietnam is short and you plan to move between several destinations, a backpack will be more practical and light. For longer trips or extended stays, a suitcase will allow you to carry more clothes and accessories, being more convenient for those who need more space.