Solo Female Travel Vietnam: The Complete Guide For Women Travelers [Budget + Itinerary]

I visit Vietnam every year alone and in this post, I will share with you all the things you need to know about solo female travel Vietnam including where to go, safety, scams to avoid, and more!

📬 Hello Trisha! I admire you for traveling the world solo. I’ve been hooked with your solo travel stories. It really inspires me to go on my own! I really need some tips as I know you already traveled to Vietnam alone a lot. Can you also connect me with your local host family? Thank you for all your help and assistance. I appreciate you and I wish you all the success! I might turn to you more for tips and advice so please bear with me.
-Ginette Sherman, Australia

Hi Ginette!

Of course you can always e-mail me if you have questions about staying with my host family in Vietnam! The purpose of this blog is to answer reader questions.  In fact, I don’t really make posts unless someone sends me an e-mail! Oh my, Vietnam… what fond memories I have of this country. This is one of the countries I feel safest in traveling alone and I can see that isn’t your worry.

‘I will try my best to help you and give you some personal insights about solo female travel Vietnam but I guarantee you that you will freaking enjoy it! Good luck and let me know how it goes!

Xx,
Trisha

P.S. You can also join my group trip for women in Vietnam if you’d like some company!

Is Solo Female Travel In Vietnam Safe?

ABSOLUTELY! I always recommend Vietnam to solo travelers whether be it male of female. Vietnam is a good training ground for your first-time solo travel!

The Vietnamese people are naturally welcoming and very friendly even if they don’t speak English. You will have a trouble-free solo trip to Vietnam as you don’t really have to be extremely vigilant and paranoid about safety.

Vietnam is actually one of the countries where I felt taken care of as a female. People are always willing to help and since they are a touristy country, you don’t get a lot of attention for being a foreigner (compared to India or Egypt).

Sure, they are still amazed that foreigners visit their country but they won’t swarm you or even look at you endlessly. Also please note that my ethnicity is Asian so I am speaking from personal experience. You might have a different experience as a white person but I’d love to hear your own stories! 

Ho Chi Minh Solo Female Travel Vietnam

I love Ho Chi Minh and I keep coming back! What Ho Chi Minh Solo Female Travel Vietnam is the history, amazing food, and friendly locals who love sharing their culture. From wandering lively markets, sipping Vietnamese coffee, or diving into street food heaven, there’s so much to experience in HCMC. Plus, it’s safe, affordable, and has plenty of fun spots to meet fellow travelers!

Ho Chi Minh is generally safe for solo female travelers, but keep an eye on your belongings—petty theft can happen. Traffic is chaotic, so crossing the street takes confidence. The main districts, like District 1, are walkable with shops and attractions close together. At night, stick to well-lit areas and use ride-hailing apps like Grab instead of street taxis for safer transport.

The city has a mix of locals and travelers, making it easy to meet people. Hostels and cafés are great for striking up conversations. You’ll find expat bars, bustling night markets, and coffee shops filled with digital nomads. Vietnamese people are welcoming, and if you show interest in their culture, they’ll happily teach you local phrases or share travel tips.

Getting around Ho Chi Minh is simple once you figure out the traffic flow. Motorbike taxis (via Grab) are the fastest way to travel, while regular taxis and buses are budget-friendly. Walking works well for exploring District 1, where most attractions are close together. Google Maps is reliable, and locals are friendly if you need directions.

HCMCis budget-friendly for solo travelers! A decent hostel dorm costs $8–$15 USD per night, while mid-range hotels start at $30 USD. Street food meals cost around $2–$5 USD, and Grab rides within the city are $1–$5 USD. Museum entries are cheap, usually under $3 USD. It’s an affordable city to explore without breaking the bank.

✈️ SEE FULL HO CHI MINH SOLO FEMALE TRAVEL GUIDE →

Ho Chi Minh Solo Female Travel Vietnam Highlights

• Best Cultural and Unique Experience for Solo Travelers: One of the best experiences is a Vietnamese cooking class, where you’ll shop for ingredients in a local market and learn how to make authentic dishes. Another must-do is visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels—crawling through these historical tunnels gives you a glimpse into Vietnam’s past. Coffee lovers should try egg coffee at a hidden café, and for something spiritual, visit Jade Emperor Pagoda for a peaceful moment.
• Social & Connection Opportunities: It’s easy to meet fellow travelers, especially at hostels or group tours. Signing up for a street food tour on a bike guarantees social interaction. Cafés and co-working spaces are great spots to chat with locals or expats. If you’re up for nightlife, Bui Vien Street is filled with backpackers, while rooftop bars like Saigon Saigon offer relaxed vibes.
• Hidden Gems or Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots: Skip the usual tourist spots and check out Thủ Đức’s hidden canals—a peaceful, scenic area where you can see a quieter side of Ho Chi Minh. Đầm Sen Park is a quirky amusement park with cultural elements, perfect for a fun afternoon. If you love books, head to Nguyễn Văn Bình Book Street, a charming hidden street lined with bookshops and cozy cafés.

Ho Chi Minh Solo Female Travel Vietnam Safe Accommodation

I loved staying at Mobylette Saigon Hotel. It’s safe, clean, and right in the heart of the city. The staff is super friendly, and the free walking tours helped me explore easily. Plus, free breakfast and happy hour beer made it easy to meet fellow travelers.

🗺️ VIEW HO CHI MINH ACCOMMODATIONS MAP →

Hanoi Solo Female Travel Vietnam

I absolutely loved Hanoi for solo female travel! It has this perfect mix of history, culture, and lively energy that makes exploring solo so much fun. The Old Quarter is buzzing with life, and the street food is unbeatable. Every corner has something new—hidden cafés, temples, and local vendors. It felt safe, exciting, and full of adventure.

Hanoi is quite safe, but like any city, I kept my belongings close. The Old Quarter is super walkable, with everything within reach—markets, cafés, and museums. Traffic can be intense, but I just followed the locals when crossing streets. At night, I stuck to busy areas and used Grab for rides when I needed.

The city is full of friendly people! Locals are happy to chat, and travelers are everywhere. I met people in hostels, cooking classes, and even in an egg coffee workshop. The night markets and cafés are great spots to connect, and the backpacker streets, like Ta Hien, are always lively and fun.

Getting around Hanoi was easy once I got the hang of it. Walking works well in the Old Quarter, but for longer distances, Grab is cheap and reliable. Motorbike taxis are everywhere, but I preferred regular cars for comfort. Buses are an option, too, but I mostly stuck to walking and rideshares.

Hanoi is ridiculously budget-friendly for solo travelers! A hostel dorm in Hanoi costs $8–$15 USD, while mid-range hotels start around $25–$40 USD. Street food meals (like pho or banh mi) are $2–$5 USD, and museum entries are usually under $3 USD. Grab rides around the city cost $1–$5 USD, making transportation super affordable.

Hanoi Solo Female Travel Vietnam Highlights

• Best Cultural and Unique Experience for Solo Female Travelers: One of my favorite experiences was wandering around Train Street, where trains zoom past cafés in the narrowest streets—it’s thrilling! Taking a Vietnamese cooking class was amazing, learning local dishes from scratch. Visiting Temple of Literature gave me a peek into Vietnam’s history, and a peaceful stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake at sunrise was a perfect solo moment.
• Social & Connection Opportunities: If you’re looking to meet people, Hanoi makes it easy! Hostels have fun group activities, and cooking classes are great for chatting with other travelers. Joining a street food tour lets you bond over delicious eats. Café culture is strong here, too—locals are friendly, and expat hangouts are great for solo travelers looking to connect.
• Hidden Gems or Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots: For something different, head to Quang Ba Flower Market early in the morning—it’s colorful, vibrant, and totally underrated. If you love books, Book Street Hanoi is a quiet, charming spot. Long Bien Bridge gives you stunning views of the Red River, away from the crowds. Also, the hidden Banh Cuon Gia Truyen shop serves some of the best rice rolls!

Hanoi Solo Female Travel Vietnam Safe Accommodation

I loved staying at Lake View Backpackers Hostel! It’s right in the Old Quarter, super affordable, and has an amazing rooftop bar where I met fellow travelers. The free breakfast was a great bonus, and the staff helped me book tours easily.

🗺️ VIEW HANOI ACCOMMODATIONS MAP →

Sapa Solo Female Travel Vietnam

Sapa is an absolute dream for solo female travelers! I loved the stunning rice terraces, misty mountains, and peaceful vibe. Trekking through the villages felt like stepping into a postcard, and the locals were so welcoming. Whether you’re hiking, exploring markets, or just soaking in the views, Sapa is pure magic.

Sapa is generally safe, especially if you stick to well-known trekking routes. The town itself is small and easy to walk around, but the real adventure is in the hills. If you’re hiking solo, hiring a local guide is a great idea. At night, the town is quiet, so I felt safe wandering around.

Sapa has a mix of travelers and friendly locals, making it easy to connect. Homestays are the best way to meet people—you’ll share meals and stories with hosts and fellow travelers. Trekking tours are also super social, and you’ll likely end up making friends along the way. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming.

Getting around Sapa is simple. The town itself is walkable, but for trekking, you’ll need a guide or a motorbike. Grab isn’t available here, but taxis and motorbike rentals are easy to find. If you’re heading to nearby villages, local buses and organized tours are great options. Maps work well, but asking locals is even better!

Sapa is budget-friendly! A hostel dorm in Sapa costs $8–$15 USD, while a cozy homestay is around $20–$40 USD. Local meals cost $2–$5 USD, and guided treks range from $15–$50 USD, depending on the length. Buses from Hanoi cost $10–$20 USD, and overnight trains are around $30–$50 USD. It’s an affordable escape into nature!

Sapa Solo Female Travel Vietnam Highlights

• Best Cultural and Unique Experience for Solo Female Travelers: Staying in a local homestay was my favorite experience! I got to cook traditional meals, learn about ethnic minority cultures, and trek through breathtaking landscapes. Visiting Cat Cat Village was a highlight—seeing traditional crafts and waterfalls was amazing. And if you’re up for a challenge, hiking Fansipan, the highest peak in Vietnam, is unforgettable!
• Social & Connection Opportunities: Sapa is great for meeting people, especially if you join a trekking tour or stay in a homestay. Group hikes naturally bring travelers together, and sharing meals with locals is a fantastic way to connect. If you’re looking for a chill social scene, cozy cafés and small bars in town are perfect for striking up conversations.
• Hidden Gems or Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots: For a quieter experience, head to Ta Van Village—it’s less touristy and offers stunning views. Love Waterfall is a hidden gem, perfect for a peaceful escape. If you want a unique adventure, visit Bac Ha Market on Sundays—it’s a colorful, bustling spot where ethnic minorities sell handmade goods and fresh produce.

Sapa Solo Female Travel Vietnam Safe Accommodation

I loved staying at Tavan Chopai Homestay! It’s cozy, safe, and run by a super welcoming Giay family. The views of the rice terraces are unreal, and the free sunset tour was a nice bonus. Plus, they offer bike rentals and trekking tours, making it easy to explore Sapa’s beauty.

🗺️ VIEW SAPA ACCOMMODATIONS MAP →

Da Nang Solo Female Travel Vietnam

I absolutely loved Da Nang! It’s got the perfect mix of beaches, mountains, and city vibes. I was chilling on My Khe Beach, exploring Marble Mountains, or walking along the Han River – I always felt safe and excited. The locals are friendly, the food is amazing, and the sunsets are unreal!

Da Nang is one of the safest cities in Vietnam for solo female travel. I felt comfortable walking around, even at night, especially near the beach and city center. The roads are wide and clean, and traffic is way calmer than Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh. Just keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas, and you’re good!

The city has a relaxed but social vibe. I met fellow travelers at beach cafés, hostels, and even while exploring Son Tra Peninsula. Locals are super welcoming, and it’s easy to strike up conversations. If you’re looking for nightlife, there are rooftop bars and beach clubs, but it’s not as wild as Ho Chi Minh City.

Getting around Da Nang was a breeze! Grab motorbikes and taxis are cheap and reliable. Renting a scooter is a great option if you’re comfortable riding. The city is well-planned, so walking along the river or beach is easy. If you’re heading to Hoi An, buses and private transfers make the trip simple.

Da Nang is super affordable! A hostel dorm in Da Nang costs $8–$15 USD, while mid-range hotels start at $30 USD. Street food meals (like banh mi or seafood) are $2–$5 USD, and Grab rides around the city cost $1–$5 USD. Entry to Marble Mountains is $2 USD, making it a budget-friendly destination.

Da Nang Solo Female Travel Vietnam Highlights

• Best Cultural and Unique Experience for Solo Travelers: One of my favorite experiences was visiting Lady Buddha—the views from the top were breathtaking! Exploring Marble Mountains was another highlight, with hidden caves and temples tucked inside. Taking a cooking class was a fun way to learn about Vietnamese food, and watching the Dragon Bridge breathe fire at night was unforgettable!
• Social & Connection Opportunities: Da Nang is great for meeting people, especially at hostels or beach cafés. Joining a food tour on a motorbike with a lady driver is a fun way to connect with locals and travelers. If you’re into yoga or wellness, I did a wellness day in Da Nang for only $11!
• Hidden Gems or Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots: For a peaceful escape, head to Son Tra Peninsula—the views are stunning, and it’s way less crowded. Bai But Beach is a hidden gem with crystal-clear water. If you love local markets, Con Market is perfect for cheap eats and souvenirs. And for a unique experience, check out the abandoned water park near Hue!

Da Nang Solo Female Travel Vietnam Safe Accommodation

I loved staying at Rom Casa Hostel! It’s super social, safe, and has a cool vibe with its unique shipping container design. The rooftop bar is perfect for meeting people, and it’s just a short walk to the beach. The staff is amazing, and they help with tours and motorbike rentals!

🗺️ VIEW DA NANG ACCOMMODATIONS MAP →

Hoi An Solo Female Travel Vietnam

Hoi An is pure magic! I loved wandering through the lantern-lit streets and discovering hidden cafés. The mix of history, culture, and beachside relaxation makes it perfect for solo travelers. Whether I was cycling through rice fields or getting clothes tailored, every moment felt special!

Hoi An is one of the safest places I’ve traveled solo. The Old Town is pedestrian-friendly, so I could explore without worrying about traffic. At night, the lantern-lit streets felt cozy and secure. Locals are welcoming, and I never felt unsafe walking alone. Just keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas!

Hoi An has a chill but social vibe. I met fellow travelers at cooking classes, cafés, and even while getting clothes tailored! The night markets are lively, and the beach bars are great for casual meetups. Locals are friendly, and it’s easy to strike up conversations, especially if you show interest in their culture.

Getting around Hoi An was super easy! The Old Town is best explored on foot, but renting a bicycle made it even more fun. Grab taxis are available for longer distances, and motorbike rentals are cheap. If you’re heading to the beach or nearby villages, cycling is a great way to explore at your own pace.

Hoi An is budget-friendly! A hostel dorm costs $8–$15 USD, while mid-range hotels start at $30 USD. Street food meals (like cao lau or banh mi) are $2–$5 USD, and Grab rides around town cost $1–$5 USD. Tailored clothing is surprisingly affordable, starting at $30 USD for custom-made outfits.

Hoi An Solo Female Travel Vietnam Highlights

• Best Cultural and Unique Experience for Solo Travelers: Taking a cooking class was one of my favorite experiences! Shopping for ingredients in a local market and learning to make Vietnamese dishes was so much fun. Another must-do is riding a bamboo basket boat in the coconut groves—it’s such a fun and unique way to explore the waterways. Visiting My Son Sanctuary was also incredible, with ancient ruins surrounded by lush greenery.
• Social & Connection Opportunities: Hoi An makes it easy to meet people! Hostels organize group activities, and cooking classes are great for bonding over food. Joining a bike tour or food tour is a fun way to connect with locals and travelers.
• Hidden Gems or Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots: For a peaceful escape, head to Tra Que Vegetable Village—it’s a quiet, scenic spot where you can learn about organic farming. An Bang Beach is perfect for a relaxed day away from the crowds. If you love local markets, Tiger Market is great for cheap eats and souvenirs. And for a unique experience, check out the hidden tea houses tucked away in the Old Town!

Hoi An Solo Female Travel Vietnam Safe Accommodation

I loved staying at SnapStay Hoi An! It’s super social, safe, and right near the Old Town. The staff remembers your name and helps you connect with other travelers. The rooftop is amazing, and they host fun events like karaoke and Vietnamese language classes.

🗺️ VIEW HOI AN ACCOMMODATIONS MAP →

Phu Quoc Solo Female Travel Vietnam

Phu Quoc is seriously the perfect solo getaway! I loved how easy it was to switch between lazy beach days and exploring hidden waterfalls in the jungle. The island has such a chilled-out vibe, and the seafood is so fresh and flavorful.

Phu Quoc felt super safe, even when I was out late. The locals are friendly, and crime rates are low. Walking around Duong Dong Town was easy, but for beaches and nature spots, I used a motorbike or Grab. At night, I stuck to well-lit areas, but honestly, I never felt uneasy.

The island has a chill but social vibe. I met fellow travelers at beach bars, snorkeling tours, and even while hiking. Hostels and guesthouses make it easy to connect, and locals are welcoming. If you’re looking for nightlife, Rory’s Beach Bar is a fun spot to meet people and enjoy the ocean breeze.

Getting around Phu Quoc was simple! Grab taxis work well in town, but renting a motorbike was the best way to explore freely. Roads are decent, and traffic isn’t crazy like in big cities. Boats and ferries make island-hopping easy, and if you’re heading to Cambodia, there’s a direct ferry option.

Phu Quoc is affordable! A hostel dorm costs $8–$15 USD, while beachfront resorts start at $40 USD. Street food meals (like seafood hotpot) are $3–$7 USD, and Grab rides around town cost $2–$5 USD. Snorkeling tours start at $20 USD, and entry to Phu Quoc National Park is free.

Phu Quoc Solo Female Travel Vietnam Highlights

• Best Cultural and Unique Experience for Solo Travelers: Taking the Hon Thom Cable Car was unforgettable—the views over the turquoise waters were unreal! Visiting Phu Quoc Prison gave me insight into Vietnam’s history, and exploring the floating fishing villages was fascinating. I also loved learning about pepper farms, where I got to taste fresh, locally grown pepper straight from the source.
• Social & Connection Opportunities: It’s easy to meet people in Phu Quoc! Joining a snorkeling or island-hopping tour guarantees social interaction. Beach bars and hostels organize events, and cooking classes are a fun way to bond over food.
• Hidden Gems or Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots: For a quiet escape, Rach Vem Beach is amazing—it’s known as Starfish Beach, where you can see red starfish in crystal-clear water. Ganh Dau Cape offers stunning views and fewer crowds. If you love nature, Suoi Tranh Waterfall is a peaceful spot for a short hike and a refreshing dip.

Phu Quoc Solo Female Travel Vietnam Safe Accommodation

I loved staying at La Veranda Resort Phu Quoc! It’s peaceful, safe, and feels like a charming French mansion by the beach. The staff is super attentive, the spa is amazing, and the sunsets are unreal. Perfect for solo travelers who want a mix of relaxation, luxury, and island adventure!

🗺️ VIEW PHU QUOC ACCOMMODATIONS MAP →

Nha Trang Solo Female Travel Vietnam

Nha Trang was such a fun solo trip! I loved the mix of stunning beaches, fresh seafood, and lively city vibes. Whether I was relaxing on Bai Dai Beach or exploring the local markets, I always felt welcome. The snorkeling and island-hopping tours were amazing, and the sunsets? Absolutely unreal!

I felt safe in Nha Trang, even when walking alone. The main beach area and city center are well-lit and busy, making it comfortable to explore. Just keep an eye on your belongings in crowded spots. Crossing streets can be tricky with motorbikes everywhere, but locals are helpful if you need guidance.

Nha Trang has a great mix of locals, backpackers, and expats, making it easy to meet people. Beach bars and hostels are super social, and joining a snorkeling or boat tour guarantees new friends. The nightlife is lively but not overwhelming, so you can enjoy a drink without feeling out of place.

Getting around was easy! Grab taxis are cheap and reliable, and renting a motorbike is a great option if you’re comfortable riding. The city is walkable, but for island trips, boats and ferries are the way to go. If you’re heading to nearby spots like Doc Let Beach, buses and private transfers work well.

Nha Trang is affordable! A hostel dorm costs $8–$15 USD, while beachfront hotels start at $30 USD. Street food meals (like fresh seafood or banh xeo) are $2–$5 USD, and Grab rides around town cost $1–$5 USD. Snorkeling tours start at $20 USD, and entry to Po Nagar Cham Towers is just $2 USD.

Nha Trang Solo Female Travel Vietnam Highlights

• Best Cultural and Unique Experience for Solo Travelers: Visiting Po Nagar Cham Towers was incredible—the ancient architecture and peaceful atmosphere made it a must-see. Taking a mud bath at Thap Ba Hot Springs was such a unique experience, and my skin felt amazing afterward! Exploring the floating fishing villages gave me a glimpse into local life, and the seafood was unbelievably fresh.
• Social & Connection Opportunities: Meeting people in Nha Trang was easy! Hostels organize group activities, and joining a snorkeling or island-hopping tour is a great way to connect with fellow travelers. Beach bars like Sailing Club have a fun, social vibe.
• Hidden Gems or Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots: For a quieter beach experience, Doc Let Beach is perfect—soft sand, clear water, and way fewer crowds. Ba Ho Waterfalls is a hidden gem for hiking and swimming in natural pools. If you love seafood, Bo Ke street has amazing local restaurants right by the water, serving fresh seafood at great prices.

Nha Trang Solo Female Travel Vietnam Safe Accommodation

I had the best time at Fuse Nha Trang! It’s super social, safe, and perfect for solo travelers. The rooftop pool is amazing, and the free nightly beer hour makes it easy to meet people. The staff is super helpful, and it’s close to the beach.

🗺️ VIEW NHA TRANG ACCOMMODATIONS MAP →

Sample Solo Female Travel Vietnam Itinerary

I stayed in Vietnam for 30 days because of a volunteering gig. I volunteered in Sapa and from there, went all the way down to Ho Chi Minh City. I did not have any time pressure as it was a backpacking trip.

However, I know that most solo female travelers don’t have the luxury of time so here’s a suggested route for 7, 10, and 14 days in Vietnam:

If you don’t have enough time, the fastest option is to fly. Major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Da Nang, and Nha Trang are well-connected by domestic flights. Budget airlines like VietJet and Bamboo Airways offer tickets starting at $30 USD. If traveling from north to south, flying saves hours of travel time compared to buses.

If you truly want to follow the route above, it’s best done by sleeper buses. Long-distance sleeper buses cost $10–$25 USD, making them budget-friendly. Buses also reach smaller towns and remote areas that flights don’t cover. It’s great for enjoying Vietnam’s landscapes, especially routes like Hanoi to Sapa!

Best Months for Solo Female Travel Vietnam

The best time to visit Vietnam as a solo female traveler is March to April and September to October. The weather is pleasant—warm but not too hot, with little rain. These months are also shoulder seasons, meaning fewer crowds and better deals on hotels and flights.

If you love beaches, December to April is great for southern Vietnam, while October to April is ideal for the north.

Avoid June to August if you don’t like humidity or heavy rain. Budget-wise, flights and accommodations are cheaper outside peak season, so planning around these months helps you save while still enjoying great weather!

Useful Tips for Solo Female Travel Vietnam

1. Get a Local SIM Card: Vietnam is still very cash-based, but having mobile data makes everything easier—booking Grab rides, checking maps, and translating Vietnamese. SIM cards are cheap ($5–$10 USD for a month) and available at the airport or convenience stores.
2. Use Grab for Transport: Forget haggling with taxis—Grab is your best friend! It’s reliable, affordable, and safer than random street taxis. You can even book motorbike rides if you’re feeling adventurous.
3. Book Long-Distance Travel in Advance: Trains and buses fill up fast, especially sleeper options. Book at least a few days ahead for comfy seats. Websites like Baolau and 12Go Asia are great for booking tickets online.
4. Overnight Trains & Buses Save Money: Vietnam is long, so traveling overnight saves both time and hotel costs. Sleeper buses are cheap ($10–$25 USD), but trains are more comfortable ($30–$50 USD).
5. Cash is King in Vietnam: Most places don’t take cards, so always carry cash. ATMs are everywhere, but some charge high fees—withdraw larger amounts at once to avoid multiple fees.
6. Learn Basic Vietnamese Phrases: Even just “Cảm ơn” (thank you) and “Bao nhiêu tiền?” (how much?) help a lot! Locals appreciate the effort, and it makes transactions smoother.
7. Rent a Bicycle in Smaller Cities: Hoi An, Ninh Binh, and Phu Quoc are perfect for cycling. Rentals are $2–$5 USD per day, and it’s a fun way to explore at your own pace.
8. Pack Light & Smart: Vietnam’s weather varies, so bring light clothes for the south and layers for the north. A rain jacket is a must, especially from June to October.
9. Use E-Wallets for Convenience: Apps like MoMo and ZaloPay are becoming popular for payments. If you’re staying longer, setting one up can make things easier.
10. Plan Around Local Holidays: Tet (Vietnamese New Year) is beautiful but chaotic—transport sells out, and prices skyrocket. If visiting during Tet, book everything early and expect closures.

Vietnamese Phrases for Solo Female Travel Vietnam

I love languages and although Vietnamese is difficult for me, I always try to speak as much as possible. Here are some helpful Vietnamese phrases for your solo trip to Vietnam:

Scams for Solo Female Travel Vietnam

Traveling solo as a woman is amazing, but I’ve learned to watch out for a few scams along the way. Here are some common travel scams in Vietnam and how to avoid them:

• The Taxi Overcharge Scam: I once got into a taxi that didn’t use a meter, and the driver charged me double the normal fare. Now, I always use Grab or ask for the meter to be turned on before the ride starts. If a driver refuses, I just find another taxi.
• The “Closed Attraction” Trick: Someone once told me a famous site was “closed” and offered to take me somewhere else instead—turns out, it was a scam to get me to a shop where they’d earn commission. Now, I check online before believing anyone who says an attraction is closed.
• Fake Tour Guides: I’ve had people approach me, claiming to be official tour guides, only to demand extra money halfway through. Now, I book tours through trusted websites or my hotel to avoid getting scammed.
• The Bracelet or Gift Scam: Someone once put a bracelet on my wrist and then demanded money for it. I quickly learned to keep my hands close to my body and politely refuse anything handed to me on the street.
• The “Friendly Local” Scam: A super friendly local invited me for drinks, and later, I was stuck with an overpriced bill. Now, I’m cautious when strangers insist on taking me somewhere—if I want to socialize, I stick to hostel events or group tours.
• Fake Police or Officials: I’ve heard of scammers pretending to be police officers, asking for passports or fines. I always ask for official identification and never hand over my passport unless I’m at a legitimate checkpoint.
• ATM & Money Exchange Scams: Some ATMs skim card details, and money changers shortchange tourists. I only use bank ATMs and count my money carefully before leaving an exchange counter.
• Motorbike Rental Damage Scam: Some rental shops claim you damaged the bike when you return it. I always take photos of the bike before renting and use reputable rental companies.
• Fake Petitions or Begging Scams: People have approached me with fake petitions or sad stories, asking for money. I’ve learned to politely decline and donate to verified charities instead.
• Cashier Shortchange Trick: Some cashiers count money too fast and keep a few bills. Now, I count my change slowly before walking away.

Safety Tips for Solo Female Travel Vietnam

Vietnam is an amazing place to explore solo, and staying alert makes the trip even better! Here are some safety tips for solo female travelers in Vietnam that go beyond the usual advice:

• Watch Out for Motorbike Snatchers: In big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, thieves on motorbikes grab bags and phones from pedestrians. I always keep my bag on the opposite side of traffic and hold my phone close when using it outside.
• Be Careful with Street Vendors Offering “Free” Food: Some vendors hand out snacks and then demand money. If someone insists on giving you something, politely decline and keep walking.
• Avoid Sitting Near the Door on Public Buses: Pickpockets target passengers near the exit because they can grab something and run. I always sit toward the middle or back and keep my bag zipped up.
• Double-Check Your Change at Markets: Some vendors shortchange tourists, especially in busy markets. I always count my money slowly before walking away and avoid handing over large bills for small purchases.
• Don’t Let Strangers “Help” You at ATMs: If someone offers to assist while you’re withdrawing money, it’s likely a scam. I only use ATMs inside banks and never accept help from strangers.
• Be Wary of “Friendly” Locals Offering Tours: Some people pretend to be guides and take you to overpriced shops where they get commission. I always book tours through trusted websites or my hotel.
• Avoid Wearing Expensive Jewelry: Vietnam is safe, but flashy jewelry can attract unwanted attention. I keep accessories simple and avoid wearing anything valuable in crowded areas.
• Use a VPN for Public Wi-Fi: Some cafés and hotels have unsecured Wi-Fi, making it easy for hackers to steal data. I always use a VPN when logging into sensitive accounts.
• Don’t Accept Open Drinks from Strangers: Spiked drinks are rare but can happen. If I go out, I watch my drink and only accept sealed bottles or drinks poured in front of me.
• Keep a fake wallet: In case of theft, I carry a cheap wallet with a small amount of cash and expired cards. My real money stays hidden in a separate pouch.
• Do not travel Vietnam solo without insurance : I never travel without insurance! It covers things like lost luggage, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations, which brings peace of mind. Some policies even include motorbike accidents, which is handy in Vietnam.