Backpacking Vietnam: Solo Travel Guide

A perfect solo travel guide with everything you need to know for backpacking Vietnam on your own! 

Backpacking a new country alone can be scary and intimidating – and I get it! I have been afraid to solo travel for a long time, but once you have done it, it provides an incredible feeling, and you will want to do it again.

Whether it is your first time in Vietnam or you have been several times, this Southeast Asian country is incredible to explore as a solo (and female) backpacker. The landscapes are breathtaking, the locals are welcoming, the lifestyle is affordable and getting around is safe and easy – all the attributes you want for a perfect adventure.

In this article, I share all the inspiration and tips you need to create an unforgettable solo experience in Vietnam. Plus, do not forget to check out the sustainable tips at the end. Enjoy!

My Vietnam experience:
Duration 15 Days
Dates visited June 14 - Jul 03
Season Summer

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Vietnam overview

Is Vietnam safe for solo travellers?

Yes, Vietnam is generally an extremely safe country to visit and one of the safest places in Southeast Asia for solo travellers, especially female backpackers. 

I visited the country with my friend Kwelan for 3 weeks, travelling through the north and some remote areas. Kwelan arrived before me and was alone for a few days, and she left before me, so I was alone on my last day. 

Together or alone, we always felt safe, even in small villages hidden in the mountains with no tourists nearby – and even at night.

Yes, many locals were staring at us, but they were all so friendly and welcoming, waving at us as we walked past their houses. When we were lost, they also helped us. For example, the bus always asked us for the address of our hotel to drop us off in front of it, which was so kind. Plus, most locals did not speak English, but they did not care – we communicated through Google Translate. 

However, like in any other country, be aware of your surroundings. Watch out for petty theft and scams, especially in big cities or on public transport. Keep your belongings safe as there may be some pickpockets around. For example, on the sleeping bus, I kept my bag and cameras on me or under my legs. 

Otherwise, we never had any problems – quite the contrary. We once forgot the key to our scooter and left it on the engine, and a local kept it until we got back. I also never felt afraid to leave my big backpack at the reception of the guesthouses. I was a bit conscious at first, but after doing it for a few days, I did not mind (and I had my computer in it!).

Also, do not be scared if Vietnamese people are a bit too forward or pushy. There are times when you may be greeted by a crowd of taxi drivers or locals who want you to join them for a tour, especially when you get off the bus in Sapa. Politely decline and continue your journey. 

One place we felt a bit overwhelmed was on Cat Ba Island. We decided to go to the beach once there, and it was a weird experience. The place was full of locals, mostly men. There were a few women, but they stayed on the beach or, if in the water, they were fully dressed. So, when two female tourists arrived with their bikinis on, everyone was staring – even though we were in our corner reading our books. I could not stand it at one point as people were coming and standing next to us, so I just went for a walk. 

I want to mention that this was the only place this happened. We returned to the beach multiple times, including Hoi An, and we never were in this situation again.

Overall, Vietnam is an incredible country to visit for solo travellers. The locals are open and helpful, getting around is safe and easy, and you will also meet plenty of fellow backpackers on your adventure. We connected with many people from around the world on our trip, and it was great! As a result, you can shape your experience however you want and make friends along the way. 

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Plan your epic adventure & live an unforgettable solo trip in Vietnam.

Why Vietnam is a great solo travel destination

1- It is a safe place to visit

As mentioned earlier, Vietnam is one of the safest places in Southeast Asia for solo travellers. Therefore, you will have no problem getting around or visiting places on your own.

My friend Kwelan and I always felt safe, whether we were exploring a small mountain village at night or on a local bus with no tourists nearby. 

2- The locals are friendly & welcoming

Vietnamese people are warm and welcoming, always ready to help. Even though most of them do not speak English, they will go above and beyond for others. 

For example, the local bus always dropped us off in front of our hotel to make sure we were safe, which I thought was so kind. Locals were also waving at us, and some asked if they could take photos with us – you can, of course, say no. 

We also had the chance to do the Ha Giang loop with two locals, and it was a great experience. We learned a lot from them and stopped at different local homes for lunch or overnight, which allowed us to connect with their culture and customs on a deeper level. 

Vietnamese people have such a positive energy. Their generosity warmed my heart so much! 💚

3- It is incredibly affordable 

Vietnam is one of the cheapest countries I have ever visited. Life is incredibly affordable, which means you can sleep in a nice hotel if you do not feel comfortable in a hostel with dorms. 

It also means you can easily shape your adventure around you and your budget whilst being able to join tours and meet other people without breaking your wallet.

4- You will meet other backpackers

Vietnam is a popular destination for solo backpackers and has an established tourist route encompassing the top sites in the country, especially along the coast. As a result, you will have no problem meeting other travellers on your adventure, whether on the bus, at guesthouses or one of those sites. 

Whilst backpacking north Vietnam, we had the chance to meet many travellers, who were in a group or alone. It was so fun connecting with like-minded people in different places and exchanging our experiences.

And that is one thing I love about this country! You can solo travel and stay alone, or you can meet others on your trip and continue together – the choice is yours. 

5- It has excellent tourist infrastructure

Vietnam has all the infrastructure you need as a tourist. It has a good transportation network allowing you to travel between cities by bus or train, offers many restaurants and bars with an English menu and free wifi and has a thriving hostel scene where you can connect with other backpackers. 

You will also find plenty of possible tours and activities on your trip, which is another excellent way to meet people. 

Looking for an epic 2-week itinerary? Check out this article:
North Vietnam Travel Guide: 2-Week Itinerary

Tips for a safe solo trip in Vietnam

Here are a few extra tips for a safe and comfortable trip in Vietnam as a solo traveller: 

1- Buy a SIM card & stay connected

Even though Vietnam is a great place to get away from it all and unwind, it is still a good idea to purchase a SIM card upon arrival and stay connected with your friends or family. Let them know your plans and where or what you are going. It will give you an extra sense of security. 

2- Do not carry too much cash

You can easily use your credit card in Vietnam, but having cash on you is also necessary, especially in remote places. However, I would suggest not carrying all your money on yourself at once and making several withdrawals during your trip. If it does not work for you, keep your cash safe in your bag or at your hotel.

3- Be mindful when carrying your bag

Shoulder bags can be an easy target for pickpockets. If you have valuable items, I would recommend carrying a backpack with secure pockets or carrying it across your chest. The other option would be to carry a cross-body bag or belt bag – many travellers had these, and they seemed super practical.  

4- Do your research

Being prepared is essential for a safe and smooth trip! Research the local culture, customs and places to visit, learn more travel tips (like this one) and avoid booking your accommodation at the last minute. Read reviews to find the best dorm hostels for backpackers and solo female travellers.

5- Watch our belongings

Like in any other country, Vietnam can have a few pickpockets and petty crime, especially in busy tourist places and on night buses. Always pay attention to your personal belongings and valuables, and keep them close to you in these situations. In crowded areas, keep your hands on your bag in a secure position. 

6- Drink alcohol in moderation

Vietnam is an incredible place to go out after dark and enjoy its vibrant nightlife. It is also a great way to have fun and meet other people. However, when travelling alone, I suggest being mindful of your alcohol consumption, especially as a solo female backpacker. 

7- Get travel insurance

Enjoy your solo backpacking trip across Vietnam stress-free with travel insurance that will cover you in case of emergency. Here is one of my favourite providers: Nomad Insurance. 

8- Do not drink tap water

Drinking tap water is not recommended in Vietnam. That is why I suggest travelling with the UltraPress Purifier Bottle, a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated on the go.

Want some tips on how to plan a perfect road trip? Check out this article:
How to Plan the Ultimate (Eco-Friendly) Road Trip

How much does a solo trip to Vietnam cost?

It will highly depend on your travel lifestyle and expectations. The good thing about Vietnam is that the country is incredibly affordable to explore, from renting a scooter to staying at a nice hotel. 

For example, the most expensive hotel we stayed in was 10€ per night in Hoi An. It included a private double room with a bathroom, a swimming pool and a breakfast buffet. 

Here are a few tips for staying on your budget: 

• Get a travel-friendly bank card (to reduce your fees)
• Stay in hostels & travel by bus (to keep your costs down)
• Volunteer (check out Workaway)
• House-sit (check out Trusted Housesitters)

Can't go backpacking without a good backpack! Check out this article:
10 Best Sustainable Backpacks for Travel & Hiking

How to make friends on a solo trip to Vietnam?

Making friends whilst travelling solo in Vietnam is easy! The country is full of open and like-minded backpackers ready to connect with others. There are many ways to meet them, here are a few: 

• On the bus: you will meet other travellers getting around by bus, especially the night bus. If some want more privacy, you will find people happy to chat with you. 

• At hostels and guesthouses: it is how we met most of our friends from our trip across Vietnam. Hostels and guesthouses in the country are warm and welcoming and the perfect place to exchange with other travellers. 

• On tours and activities: another great way to make new friends is to join a tour or activity where you would be able to meet other adventurers like you. 

• At bars and restaurants: if you like going out and partying, those could also be great places to meet other backpackers who enjoy exploring and dancing the night out. 

Looking for the best places to visit? Check out this article:
20 Epic Landmarks in Vietnam You Should Visit

Planning your solo backpacking trip to Vietnam

Best time to visit Vietnam

The best time to visit Vietnam is in spring (March-April) and Autumn (September-November) when the weather is dry but not too hot, perfect for backpacking and outdoor activities. Plus, these seasons are ideal for photo enthusiasts looking to capture scenic landscapes with vibrant colours.

However, as Vietnam is a long and narrow country, its weather can be unpredictable and highly depends on which part you visit, north or south, mountain or coast.

• Summer (May-August) is the hottest season, with harsh sunshine. These months are generally the best for relaxing at the beach but not hiking, as the weather will be hot and humid, making it difficult to breathe and exercise.

• Winter (December – February) is the coldest season, with chilling winds or heavy rain, especially in the north and mountainous regions. You will also find some snow in a few places, like Sapa. 

• Spring (February – May) is the best time to see the flower season in Vietnam. The temperatures will rise slowly, and the sunshine will be pleasant with clear blue skies. Some areas can expect rainfall, but it is still great for hiking, with lush fields and blooming spring flowers, making the country particularly beautiful.

• Autumn (September – November) is one of the best seasons to visit Vietnam, with pleasant weather where the colours gradually change and temperatures lower, but still a lovely time for exploration and outdoor activities.

Entry requirements

The entry requirements will depend on where you live. Here is an overview:

PASSPORT

When visiting Vietnam, your passport must be valid for 6 months from the date of your arrival. Plus, make sure it is in good condition. 

VISAS

Vietnam has made it easy for tourists to arrive with its visa-free policy, which means you can enter the country for up to 15 days for tourism and business without needing to apply for a visa. The list includes Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain, and Italy.

If you are not on the list or want to stay in Vietnam for more than 15 days, you can apply for an e-visa through the online portal. Those electronic visas are only valid for stays of up to 30 days with a single entry, as you must select your entry and exit points when applying.

E-visas are super simple and fast. The fee is 25 USD, and the processing time is 3 working days. You will then receive your code by email to print your visa, which you need to enter and leave the country.

If you are staying longer or have questions, check out your government website or contact them. 

How to get to Vietnam

The best way to get to Vietnam is by plane, with frequent flights landing in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. 

As you can imagine, prices can be high depending on where you live, so book your ticket in advance using Skyscanner. It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows you to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering your carbon emissions.

I departed from Paris, and my flight was 500€ (which I only booked two months before going). I had a transfer in Thailand, which was easy and quick. The first flight lasted 11h, and the second was 1h30.

How to travel around Vietnam

1- By bus

The bus is the best way to get around Vietnam. It is a cheap, easy and safe way to travel around the country, especially if you do not know how to ride a motorbike on your own.

The bus network runs across the whole country and makes it possible to reach remote villages hidden in the mountains. Local buses are also the main way for Vietnamese people to access distant places and transport goods, which means you can go along with them and hop on one of these buses (be careful in the mountains, everyone was sick!).

And because Vietnam is a lengthy country, you can use sleeper buses. They are super practical to make the most of your trip and not waste time on transport. Inside these buses, you will find small beds where you can lie down and take a nap or sleep during your journey. They are incredibly convenient and cheap, perfect for long night trips. 

Booking local or sleeper buses is easy – ask the reception of your hotel or guesthouse. They will reserve the bus for you, wherever you are. It is one of the safest and most affordable ways to travel around Vietnam. 

And if you want more premium buses, check out Baolau and 12go.asia. They provide express minibuses and vans, which are more comfortable and private.

2- By motorbike 

The other best way to travel around Vietnam is by motorbike. However, it might not be as cheap and safe as the bus and will depend on your biking level. 

The roads are generally in good condition, but some parts can be challenging with foggy, cold and wet weather. Keep in mind that accidents are common, so drive slowly! We came across a traveller who had a serious fall and had to go to the hospital. 

On the other hand, travelling across Vietnam on a motorbike is an excellent way to move freely and stop where and when you want! 

I recommend you read beforehand about exploring on a motorbike and getting as much information as possible on where to rent or buy one, how to get petrol along the way and which routes are the best. 

3- By train

Another safe way to get around Vietnam is by train. Trains run across the country but are not as cheap as the bus and do not reach remote villages. On the other hand, they are a good alternative if no bus is available or to get to a city faster. 

Check the timetables in advance and book your ticket online or ask the reception of your hotel. 

I believe you will also find trains with sleeping cabins for longer journeys. I have never experienced it in Vietnam, so if you have, please let me know in the comments below with any tips or suggestions you have.

How to travel around cities & regions

Travelling within cities and regions is easy and safe. Here are a few options: 

1- On foot

The easiest way to get around each city is on foot. It will allow you to slow travel and soak up the atmosphere of your surroundings. And if you love taking photos, it is the best way to wander and capture candids. Plus, some areas offer beautiful hiking and trekking opportunities.

2- By motorbike

Another way to travel around is by motorbike. You can easily rent one at the reception of your hotel or guesthouse and start exploring the area. However, be mindful when driving as some roads can be in poor condition, such as Sapa, where the weather is often cloudy and foggy.

3- By taxi

If you are not comfortable driving a motorbike yourself and the place you want to reach is a bit far, use a Grab (the equivalent of an Uber) or taxi. You can download the app or just book it in person, you will have many taxis waiting around.

4- With a local guide

Finally, if you are unsure about exploring on your own, feel free to hire a local guide who will be happy to share their culture and beautiful region. You can hire a guide to trek through rice terraces on a day trip or multi-day excursion or to show you around on a motorbike if you want to reach remote places.  

What to pack for a solo Vietnam trip

The best way to backpack Vietnam in any season and enjoy this beautiful country is to arrive prepared. Being mindful of what you pack is essential. Therefore, here are some clothing items and gear you might need to be comfortable on your solo backpacking trip: 

• Good backpack: the most essential item when going backpacking! I would advise having a good spacious bag suitable for you and comfortable. I would also suggest having a smaller bag with you when you explore around, as you can leave your heavy backpack at the guesthouse or hotel.

• Comfortable walking shoes: another important item, especially if you like hiking. In any case, I believe having comfortable shoes is a must when exploring a city or joining an excursion. And if you can, try to find an eco-friendly and vegan alternative.

• Mosquito repellent: you will quickly find out that mosquitos are everywhere in Vietnam and quite aggressive! Bring a good mosquito repellent with you to protect your skin from bites.

• Filtered water bottle: tap water is NOT safe to drink in Vietnam. That is why I suggest travelling with the UltraPress Purifier Bottle, a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated wherever you are.

• Sunscreen: protecting your skin from the sun is non-negotiable! So bring a zero-waste and reef-safe sunscreen with you, which reduces plastic waste and keeps you healthy by removing harmful components.

• Travel towel: a great item for any adventure, from relaxing on the beach to hiking in the mountains. A quick-drying towel made from eco-friendly fibres or recycled materials is a must-have and a perfect all-in-one option. 

• Portable charger: having gear charged on your backpacking trip is essential to capturing your beautiful adventure and coming home with unforgettable memories. That is when solar chargers come in handy! Check out Goal Zero and Anker. 

Check out this page for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

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Be prepared for your perfect solo Vietnam trip 🎒

Accommodation for solo travel

When travelling alone, I understand that finding suitable accommodation where you feel safe and comfortable is a must! Here are some options:

• Hostel: you will find many affordable and high-quality hostels all over Vietnam, even in remote places. Hostels were our favourite places to stay as we loved their welcoming atmosphere, and it was the perfect place to meet other travellers.  

• Guesthouse & Hotel: from inexpensive guesthouses to luxury hotels, you will have plenty of choices depending on your lifestyle and budget. We stayed in a few of them on our journey, and they were cosy and private. 

The best way to book your accommodation in Vietnam is with Booking.com. We used this platform whilst backpacking across the north, and it was perfect! 

We decided to choose where we wanted to stay each night on the same day, booking at the last minute. I was always amazed by how low the prices were and could not believe it! The most expensive hotel we stayed in was 10€ a night in Hoi An, and it included a private double room with a bathroom, a swimming pool and a breakfast buffet – not too bad!! We loved it so much that we stayed an extra night.

Best things to do in Vietnam for solo travel

Top places to visit

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

Hanoi

Hanoi is the vibrant capital of Vietnam, a colourful city full of charm and history. It is the perfect way to discover Vietnamese culture and taste delicious street food. 

Personal experience – I did not spend a lot of time in Hanoi, but it was not my favourite city. It was extremely hot and humid, and it was hard to breathe. Plus, the noise and smell were intense and challenging to deal with. However, I still enjoyed wandering through the narrow streets, tasting local cuisine and doing some shopping.

READ MORE: 3 Perfect Days in Hanoi: Complete Itinerary

Things to do & see in Hanoi:

• Walk through the Old Quarter
• Wander around Hoan Kiem Lake 
• Traverse the bridge to the Temple of the Jade Mountain
• Stroll Hanoi train street
• Tour the National Museum of Vietnamese History
• Explore the Temple of Literature
• Sample Hanoi local food (order a bowl of pho & a beer!)
• Visit the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
• Discover Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum

Hạ Long Bay

It is impossible not to mention Hạ Long Bay as one of the top things to do in Vietnam. Located on the northwest coast, the bay is famous for its emerald waters and thousands of tall islands filled with rainforests. 

From there, you can explore the islands on a boat tour or kayak expedition, scuba dive, rock climb or hike – so many things to do! 

Things to do & see in Hạ Long Bay:

• Join a boat cruise
• Discover Cát Bà Island
• Kayak in Bai Tu Long Bay
• Snorkel & dive near Cong Do Island
• Relax at Ti Top Beach
• Visit the Quang Ninh Museum
• Wander the Cai Bau Pagoda
• Explore Vung Vieng floating village
• Stop by Tuan Chau Island

If you have time, discover Cát Bà and its national park, a hidden gem well worth a visit. It is also another great place to start your cruise as the island is more budget-friendly and less touristy. Plus, there are many things to see and activities to do, such as: 

• Explore Cát Bà National Park 
• Relax at the beach
• Cruise along Lan Ha Bay (Hạ Long Bay alternative)
• Hike Ngu Lam Peak for stunning views
• Visit the Hospital Cave
• Bike ride around Viet Hai Village
• Visit Cai Beo floating village
• Admire the sunset at Cannon Fort
• See langurs on Monkey Island
• Enjoy Cát Bà nightlife

Sapa

Sapa is a remote town located in the mountains of northwestern Vietnam in the Muong Hoa Valley. This part of the country with its distinct and unique culture is well-known for its lush rice terraces, scenic mountain views and local communities. 

And if you love spending time outdoors and exploring, Sapa is the place for you! The area offers plenty of trekking possibilities that will take you through dramatic landscapes and ethnic villages.

Things to do & see in Sapa:

• Explore Cat Cat village
• Go hiking or trekking
• Rent a motorbike & wander
• Ride the cable car to Fansipan
• Hike to Love Waterfall
• Walk to Silver Waterfall
• Visit Sapa Museum
• Go on a boat ride on Sapa Lake
• Discover Tram Ton Pass
• Check out Muong Hoa Valley

Ninh Bình

Ninh Bình is a city, district and UNESCO World Heritage Protected Site located southeast of Hanoi. It is the ideal base for adventurers and nature lovers, as the area offers many possibilities for outdoor activities. 

From there, you can discover Tam Coc, Van Long and Hoa Lu, take a boat tour on its rivers or climb to the top of its legendary peaks for stunning views.

Things to do & see in Ninh Bình:

• Climb up the Hang Mua Peak
• Go on a Trang An boat ride
• Visit Bich Dong Pagoda
• Stroll through Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
• Go on a bike tour around the countryside
• Explore Cuc Phuong National Park
• Visit Van Long Nature Reserve
• Wander the Bai Dinh Pagoda
• Discover Tam Coc

Huế 

Huế is a charming city in central Vietnam full of art and history, which was the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors and the national capital from 1802 to 1945. 

One main attraction in the area is its impressive 19th-century Đại Nội Citadel, surrounded by canals and stone walls. It contains the Imperial City, with palaces and shrines, the Forbidden Purple City, which was once the home of the Emperor, and a replica of the Royal Theater.

Things to do & see in Huế:

• Discover the Imperial Citadel
• Visit the Forbidden Purple City
• Stroll through the Imperial City
• See a performance at the Royal Theatre 
• Admire the Thien Mu Pagoda 
• Relax at the Co Ha Gardens 
• Walk along the Perfume River
• Explore the To Mieu Temple Complex

Hội An

Hội An is one of the most beautiful cities in Vietnam, famous for its colourful lanterns, well-preserved Ancient Town and mixed architectural styles.

Personal experience – Hội An was an incredible discovery and is as beautiful as the photos you may have seen online! I loved wandering its streets, walking along its canals, admiring its lanterns and strolling through its markets. The city had a fantastic atmosphere, day and night! 

Things to do & see in Hội An:

• Wander through the Old Town
• Relax at An Bang Beach
• Explore the countryside by bike
• Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village
• Take a day trip to My Son Sanctuary
• Shop for souvenirs at the Hoi An Night Market
• Admire the Japanese Covered Bridge
• Marvel at Quan Cong Temple

HO CHI MINH CITY

Ho Chi Minh City, known as Saigon, is the most populous city in Vietnam, situated in the southeastern region of the country and surrounding the Saigon River.

From historic museums and stunning architecture to a thriving food and craft beer scene, you will find plenty of things to do and see in this bustling city.

Things to do & see in Ho Chi Minh City:

• Explore the Giac Lam Pagoda
• Visit the War Remnants Museum
• Tour the Reunification Palace
• Join a Bonsai River cruise
• Discover the Central Office
• Enjoy a drink in Pham Ngu Lao Street
• Travel to the Mekong Delta
• Marvel at the Cao Dai Temple

Best tours & activities

Are you looking for the perfect guided tour in Vietnam? Check those out:

How to reduce your eco-impact in Vietnam

Sustainable travel means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

Between vibrant culture, traditional villages and breathtaking nature, Vietnam is a country full of history and diversity that demands attention and care. Being mindful of the places you visit and the people you meet is essential to their preservation.

Here are some eco-friendly travel tips for reducing your carbon footprint when travelling solo in Vietnam: 

GREEN TRAVEL TIPS

• Book direct flights (which require less fuel than indirect flights) and offset your carbon footprint. But, do not use carbon offsetting as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully carefully your backpack to be ready for your green adventure. For example, take a filtered water bottle to stay hydrated on the go.

• Join tourism activities benefiting the local community, economy and wildlife. Look for authentic experiences but avoid tours more focused on money than traditional culture! Select an operator with a responsible tourism approach (research their website and ask questions). And, of course, never participate in activities harmful to wildlife. 

• If you decide to snorkel or drive, be sure to choose a responsible operator. Plus, never touch or step on coral and wear reef-safe sunscreen.

• Do not leave a trace: do not litter and pick up any trash you encounter. Leftover waste can be extremely harmful to the local ecosystem. So, once again, be zero waste and take your garbage with you. 

• Hire a local guide if possible. You will reinvest your money in the local community and learn from someone who knows the area and the culture.

• Shop local. Buy handicrafts at local markets and ask questions about the product and its origins. Never purchase items from endangered species.

• Eat at local restaurants, and tip your guides or hotel and restaurant staff. It may be small for you but can significantly impact their earnings.

• Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites. Much of Vietnam is still very conservative, especially in rural areas.

• Always respect the local heritage. Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, ask before taking a photo, always be respectful and try to learn a few Vietnamese words 🙂

More inspiration for your adventure:

• The Complete Guide to Sustainable Travel
• 10 Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World
• How to Plan the Ultimate (Eco-Friendly) Road Trip
• 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure

Vietnam travel planning guide

🚑 Should I buy travel insurance to travel to Vietnam?
Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your solo backpacking trip across Vietnam stress-free with one of my favourite providers, Nomad Insurance.

💧 Can you drink the water in Vietnam?
No, drinking tap water is not recommended in Vietnam. That is why I suggest travelling with the UltraPress Purifier Bottle, a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated on the go.

🛵 Is it easy to rent a motorbike in Vietnam?
Yes, renting a motorbike or motorscooter in Vietnam is easy and cheap (just ask your guesthouse or hotel) and is a great way to explore the country freely.

🏨 How to book accommodation in Vietnam?
The best way to book your accommodation in Vietnam is with Booking.com – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.

✈️ What is the best site to buy a flight to Vietnam?
I recommend booking your plane with Skyscanner. It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

Vietnam solo travel – FAQ

Have you ever experienced a solo trip in Vietnam or would you like to try one day? 
Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡
Lucie