Travel Scams in Vietnam (2026): Is Vietnam Safe for Tourists & How to Avoid Common Scams

First-time visitors, solo travelers, families, and digital nomads asking:

• “Is Vietnam safe for tourists?”

• “What scams should I watch out for in Vietnam?”

• “How do I avoid taxi scams, fake tours, or visa fraud in Vietnam?”

This guide explains the most common tourist scams in Vietnam, where they happen, and practical ways to avoid them, so you can travel confidently and enjoy Vietnam without unnecessary stress.

Is Vietnam Safe for Tourists?

Yes. Vietnam is widely considered a safe travel destination, with low rates of violent crime against tourists. Millions of visitors travel across Vietnam every year without incident.

Most issues involve petty scams, especially in:

• Hanoi

• Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

• Hoi An

• Ha Long Bay

• Major airports and tourist districts

With basic awareness, these scams are easy to avoid.

Are Travel Scams Common in Vietnam?

Scams exist, but they are non-violent, small-scale, and opportunistic. Travelers who use reputable services and confirm prices in advance rarely experience problems.

Key takeaway: Vietnam is safe — awareness is your best protection.

Most Common Scams in Vietnam (and How to Avoid Them)

1. Taxi & Ride Scam

What happens

• Rigged meters

• Taking long routes

• Inflated airport fares

How to avoid

• Use Grab (Vietnam’s most reliable ride-hailing app)

• Choose licensed taxi companies:

  • Mai Linh Taxi

  • Vinasun Taxi

• Always insist on the meter

2. Money Exchange Scams

What happens

• Fake banknotes

• Poor exchange rates from street dealers

How to avoid

• Exchange money at:

  • Banks

  • Official exchange counters

  • ATMs

• Avoid street money changers

3. SIM Card & eSIM Scams

What happens

• Expired or slow data SIMs

• Overcharging tourists

How to avoid

• Buy SIM cards or eSIMs from:

  • Airport telecom counters

  • Official stores (Viettel, Vinaphone, Mobifone)

• Confirm data allowance and validity before paying

4. Fake Tours & Ticket Scams

Where it happens

• Ha Long Bay cruises

• Sapa trekking tours

• Bus tickets between cities

How to avoid

• Book through:

  • Verified tour operators

  • Official websites

  • Well-reviewed agencies on Tripadvisor or Google

• Be cautious of “too cheap” deals

5. Street Vendor Overcharging

What happens

• Inflated prices quoted to foreigners

• “No change” excuses

How to avoid

• Ask the price before buying

• Carry small bills

• Walk away if prices seem unreasonable

Practical Safety Tips for Traveling in Vietnam

• Use Grab instead of random taxis

• Book tours, transport, and visas from reputable providers

• Keep valuables secure in crowded areas

• Avoid unofficial visa agents or fake websites

• Take photos of receipts or license plates if unsure

• Trust your instincts — walk away if something feels wrong

Is Vietnam Still Worth Visiting Despite Scams?

Absolutely. Vietnam consistently ranks as a top destination in Southeast Asia for culture, food, landscapes, and value for money.

Most travelers report:

• Friendly locals

• Safe city centers

• Positive travel experiences

Scams are minor and do not define travel in Vietnam.

💡 Cross-read our guide: Is Vietnam Safe for Tourists?

Avoid Visa Scams: Apply for Your Vietnam Visa Safely

One of the most common travel scams involves fake Vietnam visa websites. To avoid issues at immigration, apply through a reputable, verified provider.

Many travelers choose Vietnam Entry Visa, a trusted visa service established in 2010, known for:

• Secure online applications

• Accurate visa checks

• Urgent processing options

• Verified reviews on Trustpilot & Tripadvisor