How to avoid theft in Vietnam?

How common is theft in Vietnam?

Petty theft is the most common type of crime for tourists in Vietnam. Thieves often operate on motor scooters in the most crowded parts of the largest cities and target tourists' cellphones, purses, cameras, and backpacks. The State Department recommends you hold on to your phones and purses tightly.

What should I be careful of in Vietnam?

What is the most common crime in Vietnam?

Violent crime against foreigners is rare, however petty crimes such as theft and pickpocketing occur regularly. Bag-snatchers operate in crowded areas and in places visited by tourists. Typically, there is a rise in petty crime during the Christmas and Tet Lunar New Year seasons.

Is pickpocketing common in Ho Chi Minh City?

Always be Alert and Take Care of Your Belongings

In any bustling metropolis like Ho Chi Minh City, the presence of pickpockets is a reality. Therefore, it's crucial to remain vigilant and safeguard your belongings, especially in crowded areas, markets, and public transportation.

Top 10 Known Scams in Vietnam and How to Avoid (2025 Updated)

How to not get pickpocketed in Vietnam?

What to avoid in Ho Chi Minh?

Should I carry my passport with me in Vietnam?

Vietnamese law requires that non-Vietnamese citizens carry their passport at all times.

What is illegal in Vietnam for tourists?

Not to bring or keep guns, explosives & weapons in Vietnam: Some countries like Swiss, Finland, Serbia, Cyprus, Saudi Arabia and others allow citizens to own guns. In Vietnam, carrying guns and other potentially injurious items such as knives, guns, explosives, flammable materials is illegal.

What is inappropriate in Vietnam?

As a general rule, keep your cool and avoid loud arguments, making a scene, berating others for mistakes, or pointing out anything that may cause the locals to feel shamed. TIP: Vietnamese dislike public displays of affection, and men and women often do not touch in front of others.

What does "fingers crossed" mean in Vietnam?

In Vietnam the gesture is considered rude, especially to another person. Referring to female genitals, it is comparable to the middle finger in American culture. In German-speaking countries, as well as Sweden and Latvia, the gesture is a sign of lying. Instead, wishing for luck is gestured by holding one's thumbs.

What not to bring to Vietnam?

How do I prepare my stomach for Vietnam?

Start taking probiotics for one week before you leave for Vietnam. I use Optibac's For Travelling Abroad and Allergy Research Saccharomyces Boulardii. The latter is not only researched for diarrhoea but is supportive of the immune system which helps your digestive system fight any incoming bugs that may slip in.

Do phones get stolen in Vietnam?

You've just got to be aware. My daughter's friend did have her phone snatched by guys on a scooter late at night outside a bar while waiting for a taxi.. You will only have that problem in Saigon elsewhere no issues at all. IT consultant who has traveled Vietnam for 20 years.

Where to avoid in Vietnam?

What is the best mosquito repellent for Vietnam?

Products containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus are commonly used among travelers. A few more tips, if you use repellent: Make sure to apply the repellent on all exposed skin, especially during peak mosquito activity times, such as early morning and late afternoon into the evening.

What not to do as a tourist in Vietnam?

Can I kiss in public in Vietnam?

Kissing in public is not on and even during a romantic night out, please be very discreet. The Vietnamese are often shocked by how much tourists openly show affection, so keep a check on the PDAs! The Vietnamese are not demonstrative so no kissing on the cheek/hugs/backslapping when you say hello.

Are taxis safe in Vietnam?

Taxis ARE generally safe in Vietnam.

Otherwise, make sure you have small denominations as taxi drivers don't like breaking larger bills. Taxis in Vietnam run on a meter, and the cars are usually clean and well kept. There are 2 main and trustful taxi companies that you can count on: Mai Linh and VinaSun.

What to watch out for in Vietnam?

Watch your belongings

This includes your day pack when out sight-seeing during the day. Keep your backpack in front of you, watch your stuff when taking photos and don't leave your phones just sitting on tables in street cafes. Vietnam is not dangerous just be aware of these petty crimes which can cause a headache.

Which is cheaper, Thailand or Vietnam?

In general, Vietnam tends to be slightly cheaper than Thailand, with lower prices for accommodation and food. However, keep in mind that tourist hotspots can be more expensive. In both countries, street food is a great way to save money and experience the local cuisine.

Is alcohol safe in Vietnam?

There are reports, from time to time, of people in Việt Nam dying from methanol poisoning. This, however, is not from fake alcohol and not from consuming drinks in a bar. The most common cause of alcohol poisoning deaths in Vietnam comes from purchasing homemade alcohol from street markets or contacts.

What not to wear in Ho Chi Minh?

Don't wear singlets, shorts, dresses or skirts, or tops with low-neck lines and bare shoulders to Temples and Pagodas. To do this is considered extremely rude and offensive.

What is the most common crime in Ho Chi Minh City?

Pickpocketing, snatch-and-grab robbery, and petty theft are the most frequent types of crime in Saigon these days. Pickpocketing is to steal things out of people's pockets or bags.

What mistakes should you avoid in Vietnam?