Vietnam Travel Insurance: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Health & Safety in Vietnam

Vietnam is considered a low-risk destination and has low levels of violent crime. However, as usual for any tourist-heavy destination, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, do happen in crowded, heavily-trafficked areas. In addition, some tourists find that being overcharged for taxis and being met with exorbitant fees at currency exchanges are common scams.

For travel tips and the most up-to-date information on Vietnam health and safety, always consult the U.S. Department of State’s country information page while planning your trip. U.S. travelers should also register for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) before departure, which will allow the State Department to reach out in case of emergencies, and to deliver timely updates on health, weather, safety, and security in your destination.

U.S. travelers heading to Vietnam should ensure they’re up-to-date on routine vaccinations, including measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), as well as tetanus and hepatitis A. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also recommends vaccines for typhoid, hepatitis B, and Japanese encephalitis, depending on the length and location of the stay.

Mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue fever and malaria, are concerns, particularly in rural and forested areas. Use insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and consider antimalarial medication for high-risk regions.

Rabies is also present in Vietnam, so travelers should avoid contact with stray animals, particularly dogs and monkeys. Pay attention to all posted advisories and local guidance about dealing with wildlife or traversing rural areas.

Vietnam’s natural and diverse landscapes are stunning and make the country a huge hit with adventure travelers. However, there are some risks. Venomous snakes, including cobras, are found in rural and jungle areas, so hikers should wear protective clothing and be cautious. Leeches are common in wet, forested regions, particularly after rain.

As for natural disasters, Vietnam experiences typhoons from June to November, which can lead to flooding and travel disruptions. Landslides can occur in mountainous regions, especially after heavy rainfall. Avoid traveling by motorbike after extreme weather events, as roads can become impassable and dangerous in rural areas. Travelers should monitor weather forecasts, follow local advisories, and plan accordingly if visiting during the rainy season.

Traffic in Vietnam is chaotic, especially in cities, and motorbikes dominate the roads with little adherence to traffic laws. It can take visiting pedestrians several days to feel comfortable crossing the road, as vehicles and motorbikes rarely stop for traffic and there are few organized crossings.

Public transportation, such as buses and trains, is generally a safe option, but tourists should be cautious when using motorbike taxis. For the safest option, use ride-hailing apps like Grab instead of unlicensed taxis.