Vietnam is a safe and beautiful country, even for tourists and solo travellers alike. If it’s your first time visiting Vietnam, this guide can be especially helpful in planning and remembering important things.
- Budget for planning a Vietnam Trip – 1-1.5 lakhs for two. However, this amount may vary based on factors such as peak tourist season, accommodation preferences, and transportation choices.
- Plan a Rough Itinerary – Planning a rough itinerary for your Vietnam trip can help you book flight tickets in advance at cheaper rates. Having a basic idea of the places you want to visit and the duration of your stay in each location can save you time and money. Read our blog Chasing Dragons and Dragons in Vietnam to plan your itinerary.
- Book Accommodation in Advance – Book at least one day’s stay in advance, especially if it’s your first time visiting Vietnam. This not only ensures a hassle-free arrival but is also required as part of the e-visa process. Pre-booking your accommodation provides the necessary hotel address required for the e-visa application.
- Apply for an E-visa – To enter Vietnam, you’ll need to apply for an e-visa at least two weeks before your intended travel date. The process is relatively easy and straightforward. You’ll need a digital copy of your passport, a passport-sized photograph, and details of your pre-booked accommodation. After submitting your application, you’ll receive an email with your registration number, which you can use to track your application status.
- Google Translator – Communicating in Vietnam can sometimes be challenging due to language barriers. The gap can be bridged easily using Google Translator to easily translate conversations in restaurants, taxis, and other interactions with locals.
- Install Grab Car – Only book rides through the Grab app or a reputable local travel agency to avoid scam artists. In Danang, we encountered one who demanded double the fare, and even after we tried to avoid him, he persisted in following us until our Grab arrived. Stick to trusted options to ensure a safe journey.
- Install Google Maps – Navigate your way through Vietnam’s streets and attractions with ease by downloading Google Maps. This app will help you find directions and explore various destinations effortlessly.
- Install Klook App – Book tour packages, hotels, and activities in Vietnam using the Klook app. You can browse through a wide range of options and plan your itinerary conveniently.
- Install Currency Converter App – Currency converter app to quickly assess your expenses and make informed decisions without the hassle of manual calculations.
- Pre-book SIM Card – Ensure seamless communication during your trip by pre-booking a SIM card or purchasing one from a shop at the airport. Alternatively, check if your mobile carrier offers international calling options.
- Read the blog – Manage vegetarian and vegan food in Vietnam
- Tourist spots in Vietnam usually open at 7:00 AM and close at 5:00 PM. Wake up early, grab breakfast, and head out to explore to beat the heat and the crowds!
By having these apps ready on your phone, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate Vietnam and make the most of your travel experience. Happy travels!
CurlyGirlyTravely 
We traveled from South to North Vietnam as a vegan covering Ho Chi Minh, Da Lat, Hue, Hoi An and Hanoi. Out trip also included couple of road trips and that meant stopping for lunch at villages. We even had food at a completely local place, where no tourists were to be seen and surprisingly, we got vegan food without much effort. Only one place even Google translator was struggling but we got served awesome rice noodles with tofu. Loved the food there, it was healthy.
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Your trip through Vietnam sounds amazing! Eating at local spots, away from the tourists, must have been exciting. It’s impressive how you found vegan options even in small villages. And enjoying local dishes like rice noodles with tofu must have been delicious. Thanks for sharing your experiences!
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This guide is incredibly helpful for anyone planning a trip to Vietnam! Your tips cover everything from budgeting to navigating language barriers, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for solo travelers and tourists alike. Thanks for sharing these valuable insights—it’s sure to make planning and exploring Vietnam much easier and more enjoyable for everyone!
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I’m thrilled to hear that you found the guide helpful for planning your trip to Vietnam. It’s my pleasure to share insights and tips to make your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. If you have any more questions or need further assistance as you plan your adventure, feel free to reach out anytime.
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Your tips are great! As someone who literally just returned from three months of travel through Vietnam I can vouch for all of them. Such an amazing country!
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Thank you! I’m glad you found the tips helpful. Wow, three months in Vietnam must have been an incredible adventure! It truly is an amazing country with so much to offer.
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