11 Things To Avoid In Vietnam For A Responsible Vacation

For a responsible Vietnam vacation, avoid riding motorbikes without proper licensing, drinking tap water, consuming raw street food, and disrespecting sacred sites by dressing inappropriately. Don’t support animal tourism, engage in illegal activities, or travel without health insurance. Never haggle aggressively with vendors, purchase items made from endangered species, or give money directly to children. These mindful choices will enhance your authentic experience while respecting local communities and environments.

11 Things To Avoid In Vietnam For A Responsible Vacation

While planning your adventure to Vietnam, being mindful of local customs and environmental impacts can transform your trip from a typical vacation into a responsible travel experience.

Avoid public displays of affection and pointing with your feet, as these actions are considered disrespectful. Don’t purchase items made from endangered species or support attractions featuring performing animals. Skip single-use plastics and littering, especially in protected areas. Never give money directly to children as this can inadvertently support child exploitation and trafficking. Be cautious about haggling too aggressively in local markets as fair prices support communities that depend on tourism for their livelihood.

Refrain from touching historical artifacts or underdressing at religious sites—always remove your shoes when entering temples.

Instead, learn basic Vietnamese phrases, support local artisans, choose eco-friendly accommodations, and opt for tour operators committed to wildlife conservation. By respecting Vietnam’s cultural traditions and natural environment, you’ll contribute positively to the communities you visit.

Riding Motorbikes Without Proper Licensing

Traveling Vietnam responsibly extends beyond respecting cultural norms to understanding transportation laws. If you’re tempted to hop on a motorbike without proper licensing, reconsider.

Vietnam requires specific licenses for bikes over 50cc—an A1 for under 175cc and A2 for larger engines. Your foreign license isn’t valid here. International Driving Permits are only valid if issued under the 1968 Convention.

Foreign licenses don’t work in Vietnam—you’ll need an A1 for motorcycles under 175cc and A2 for larger bikes.

Obtaining a Vietnamese license demands residence permits, sponsorship, and passing both theory and practical tests—a process taking up to a month.

Riding unlicensed increases your risk of fines, insurance complications, and accidents in Vietnam’s chaotic traffic.

Consider alternatives like rental services with proper documentation, guided tours, or public transportation. If you’re seeking outdoor adventures instead, Vietnam offers numerous other responsible ways to explore its natural landscapes.

Drinking Tap Water or Consuming Raw Street Food

When exploring Vietnam’s culinary delights, you’ll need to exercise caution with what you drink and eat. Tap water often contains microbes, E. coli, ammonia, and sometimes arsenic exceeding WHO guidelines. Never drink unboiled tap water—opt for bottled or filtered alternatives instead.

While Vietnam’s street food scene is vibrant, be selective with your choices. Avoid raw or undercooked meat and fish entirely, as they carry serious health risks. Choose freshly cooked, hot dishes from clean stalls where you can observe proper food handling. The high rates of waterborne diseases in Vietnam are directly linked to water pollution, with nearly 80% of health issues including cholera and typhoid stemming from contaminated water sources. Whether you’re visiting northern Hanoi or the southern regions, these food safety precautions apply throughout the country.

This caution is especially important in rural areas, where only about 51% of the population has access to clean water. When enjoying fruits, stick to those you can peel yourself, and thoroughly wash all vegetables before consumption.

Disrespecting Sacred Sites and Local Customs

Vietnam’s sacred sites and temples demand reverence beyond what many Western travelers might anticipate. Remove your shoes before entering temples and never point your feet toward altars or monks. Dress modestly—cover shoulders and knees, even in hot weather.

Photography requires sensitivity: ask permission before photographing monks or rituals, avoid flash, and never disrupt worshippers for a photo opportunity. Keep your voice low and refrain from public displays of affection in religious areas.

When interacting with locals, never touch anyone’s head as it’s considered spiritually sacred. Greet elders respectfully and don’t criticize local customs. Similar to Japanese etiquette customs, bowing slightly when greeting someone shows respect and cultural awareness. When visiting temples, consider making appropriate small donations as a sign of respect and to support the maintenance of these sacred spaces. Always follow posted signs and staff instructions.

Remember that offerings and ritual objects hold deep significance—don’t touch or move them without explicit permission.

Supporting Animal Tourism and Wildlife Exploitation

Beyond respecting cultural sites, ethical travelers must consider their impact on Vietnam’s wildlife. Avoid elephant riding, monkey performances, and crocodile farms that often mask exploitation behind entertainment. These activities frequently involve cruel training methods and poor living conditions for animals.

Before booking wildlife experiences, research operators thoroughly. Look for sanctuaries with legitimate conservation credentials rather than profit-driven exhibitions. True ethical sanctuaries prioritize animal welfare over visitor interaction. With Vietnam experiencing a tourism surge during holiday periods like Tet, the pressure on wildlife attractions intensifies as operators cater to increased visitor numbers.

Consider alternatives like guided nature walks, where you can observe animals in their natural habitat without disruption. Support community-based tourism initiatives that protect local ecosystems while benefiting Vietnamese communities. Vietnam, like neighboring Cambodia, offers budget-friendly options for responsible travelers seeking ethical wildlife experiences.

Ignoring Traffic Safety Precautions

Although Vietnam has seen improvements in traffic safety with the 2025 traffic code, traversing its roads remains one of the most dangerous aspects of travel in the country. Don’t underestimate the chaotic traffic flow, particularly in major cities where motorcycles dominate the roads.

Despite recent safety improvements, Vietnam’s chaotic traffic—especially in cities—remains a major hazard for travelers.

Never ride motorcycles without proper helmets, even for short distances. When traveling in Vietnam, follow essential safety tips similar to those recommended for China to ensure your wellbeing. Avoid nighttime driving when visibility is poor and accident risks increase markedly. Don’t attempt to cross streets without careful observation—wait for gaps in traffic and move steadily when crossing.

Be wary of unlicensed taxis and transportation services that mightn’t adhere to safety standards. During Lunar New Year and other holidays, exercise extra caution as these periods historically see fluctuating accident rates despite recent improvements. Despite overall improvement in traffic safety, railway accidents have shown a concerning increase of 77.78% compared to the previous year.

Always respect local traffic laws, which now carry substantially increased penalties for violations.

Littering and Contributing to Environmental Damage

Despite being a country blessed with pristine natural beauty, Vietnam faces significant environmental challenges that travelers can either worsen or help mitigate.

Avoid single-use plastics, especially near UNESCO sites like Ha Long Bay where 5,000 tonnes of plastic leak into the sea yearly. Phu Quoc island produces approximately 180 tons of waste daily, most of which ends up in landfills. Carry reusable water bottles and refuse plastic straws at beachside restaurants. When exploring cities, use designated waste bins and separate recyclables where possible.

Choose eco-conscious tours that prioritize waste reduction and visit popular sites during off-peak hours to reduce overcrowding. Consider visiting neighboring Laos instead for a less crowded but equally stunning Southeast Asian experience. Stay on marked trails during treks in Sapa and other natural areas to prevent soil erosion.

Never purchase souvenirs made from coral or shells, and avoid wildlife selfie opportunities that exploit endangered species. Report illegal wildlife markets if encountered.

Engaging in Illegal Activities and Scams

Vietnam’s legal system carries significant differences from many Western countries, and what might seem like minor infractions elsewhere can result in serious consequences here. To avoid legal trouble and protect yourself from common scams, remain vigilant throughout your travels.

Exercise extreme caution with Vietnam’s strict legal system where minor infractions can lead to serious penalties.

• Never rent motorbikes without proper licenses—most foreigners lack legal authorization to operate them.
• Avoid drugs completely—Vietnam enforces harsh penalties for possession and trafficking.
• Use reputable transportation services like Mai Linh or Vinasun taxis, or ride-sharing apps.
• Verify accommodations through official websites and be wary of drivers claiming your hotel is “closed.”
• Document all rental conditions and never surrender your passport as collateral for rentals.

Be extremely careful with your belongings in crowded areas as petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching are common in tourist destinations.

Just as travelers should do in Korea, always respect local customs and traditions when visiting religious or cultural sites in Vietnam.

If you encounter a scam, report it immediately to local authorities and your country’s embassy or consulate.

Traveling Without Adequate Health Insurance

While exploring Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cities offers unforgettable experiences, traveling without extensive health insurance puts you at substantial financial and medical risk.

International clinics often demand upfront payments, and emergency evacuations can exceed $250,000.

Rural areas like Ha Giang and Sapa face severe healthcare shortages, while language barriers complicate diagnosis at local facilities.

Motorbike accidents—a leading cause of tourist injuries—may not be covered if your policy excludes motorized vehicles.

Vietnam ranks among dangerous destinations in Asia primarily due to road safety concerns and limited medical infrastructure outside major cities.

Ensure your coverage includes at least $50,000 for medical expenses and $250,000 for evacuation.

Don’t forget riders for pre-existing conditions and adventure activities.

Vietnam’s limited acceptance of U.S. insurance means you’ll likely pay out-of-pocket first, then seek reimbursement—a process that requires extensive documentation and patience.

Travel Guard offers comprehensive plans with emergency assistance and 24/7 support services that can be invaluable when facing medical emergencies in Vietnam.

Wearing Inappropriate Clothing at Religious Sites

When entering Vietnam’s sacred temples and religious sites, proper attire serves as your passport to respectful cultural engagement. The Vietnamese deeply value modesty and reverence in spiritual spaces, so dressing appropriately shows your understanding of local customs. Hanoi, in particular, houses many cultural treasures that require respectful dress when visiting.

• Cover shoulders and knees at all religious sites, including the Temple of Literature and One Pillar Pagoda.
• Choose loose-fitting clothing rather than tight or revealing options.
• Skip shorts, crop tops, and sleeveless shirts regardless of the weather.
• Bring a lightweight scarf to cover up quickly if needed.
• Opt for breathable, modest fabrics appropriate for Vietnam’s humid climate.

Many sites have visible signs or guidelines posted at entrances to inform visitors about appropriate dress code requirements.

Remember that while some sites might offer cover-ups for unprepared visitors, arriving properly dressed demonstrates genuine respect for Vietnamese cultural heritage and spiritual traditions.

Haggling Aggressively With Local Vendors

Bargaining in Vietnamese markets represents an intricate cultural dance rather than a competition to secure rock-bottom prices. While negotiation is expected, aggressive haggling can damage both cultural relations and local livelihoods.

Most vendors earn less than $150 monthly and have already factored a 40-50% negotiation buffer into initial prices. Remember that with 44 Vietnamese dong equivalent to USD, small discounts might seem trivial to travelers but make a significant difference for vendors.

While exploring local markets, stay aware that Vietnam shares borders with Cambodia, which is home to deadly wildlife species that sometimes appear in exotic market goods.

Start your offers at around half the asking price and aim to settle between 65-75% of the original amount.

Skip bargaining altogether for items under $2.

Last Words

By avoiding these missteps, you’ll enjoy a more authentic and responsible Vietnamese experience. While some might argue that strict adherence to local customs limits spontaneity, respecting cultural norms actually opens doors to deeper connections with locals. Your thoughtful choices support sustainable tourism and preserve what makes Vietnam special. Remember, responsible travel isn’t about restriction—it’s about creating meaningful experiences that benefit both visitors and the communities you encounter.