10 Essential Things to Know Before Traveling to Vietnam in 2026 (First-Timer's Guide)

Vietnam Travel 2026: 10 Essential Things to Know Before Your First Trip (First-Timer’s Guide)

Vietnam in 2026 is one of those “why didn’t I come sooner?” destinations: beautiful, affordable, and generally very safe for tourists if you use basic common sense. You’ll get world-class food, dreamy landscapes, and a culture that’s welcoming (and surprisingly patient with first-timers learning how to cross the street).

Here are 10 essentials that’ll save you money, stress, and at least one awkward moment.

1) 

Sort Your 90-Day E-Visa (Use the Official Government Site Only)

Good news: Vietnam’s e-Visa can be valid up to 90 days (single or multiple entry), and it’s the easiest option for many travelers from the US, Australia, and Europe. 

Do this:

• Apply on the official Vietnam e-Visa portal (not the dozens of look-alike “visa service” sites).  
• Double-check every detail before submitting (name order, passport number, dates). Small errors can cause big airport drama.  
• Save a PDF + screenshot of your e-Visa on your phone and email.

Local blogger tip: If a website feels like it’s trying too hard to look official… it usually isn’t.

2) 

Download “Grab” Before You Land (Transport = Easy Mode)

If you remember one app for Vietnam, make it Grab. It’s widely used for cars and motorbikes, shows the price upfront, and reduces the classic tourist headaches (meter “issues,” surprise detours, awkward bargaining). 

Do this:

• Install Grab and add a card (or plan to pay cash depending on the city/service).
• Use it from airports and around town for predictable pricing.

3) 

Cash Is King (Yes, Even in 2026)

Vietnam is modern, but cash still rules for street food, small cafes, markets, local shops, and quick services. Big places take cards, but don’t count on it everywhere. 

Do this:

• Exchange money into VND (Vietnamese đồng).
• Carry small bills for:
  
• Street eats
• Tips
• GrabBike
• Markets
• 
  
• Use ATMs in reputable spots (banks, malls). Avoid sketchy standalone machines if possible.

4) 

How to Cross the Street Without Losing Your Soul

Vietnam traffic looks like chaos… but it has its own logic.

The rule: Keep walking slowly and predictably. Don’t sprint. Don’t freeze.

Drivers flow around you like water around a rock.

Do this:

• Make eye contact when possible
• Walk at a steady pace
• If you panic-stop, you become the “unexpected obstacle” (not ideal)

5) 

Best Time to Visit Vietnam (And the Tet Holiday Warning)

Vietnam’s weather changes a lot north-to-south, so “best time” depends on where you’re going. Generally, spring and fall are popular for comfortable temperatures across many regions. 

Tet Holiday caveat (VERY important):

Vietnam’s Lunar New Year (Tet) is the biggest holiday of the year. In 2026, the Tet break is widely reported as Feb 14–22, 2026 for public employees, and travel demand spikes hard. 

During Tet you can expect:

• Higher prices and limited availability (flights, trains, hotels)
• Some businesses closed or running reduced hours
• Crowded transport hubs

Do this:

• Either avoid Tet week for easy logistics, or book early and lean into the festival vibe.

6) 

Buy a SIM Card at the Airport (Viettel/Vinaphone = Solid Choices)

You’ll want data the moment you land (Grab, maps, translation, bookings, your group chat back home).

Best quick option: buy a tourist SIM/eSIM at the airport from major providers like Viettel or Vinaphone. Viettel is often praised for strong coverage. 

Do this:

• Bring your passport (it’s commonly required for SIM registration).  
• If airport prices feel high, you can top up or switch plans later in the city.

7) 

Street Food Safety (Eat Smart, Not Scared)

Vietnamese street food is a highlight—not a dare.

Golden rules:

• Drink bottled water (and check the seal)
• Eat at stalls with:
  
• Lots of locals
• High turnover
• Food cooked fresh and served hot
• 
  
• Skip raw/room-temp items if you have a sensitive stomach on day 1

Bonus tip: If you see a tiny plastic stool army and a long line, congratulations—you found the good stuff.

8) 

Power Outlets: Bring the Right Adapter (Type A, C, F)

Vietnam commonly uses plug types A, C, and F, with 220V / 50Hz in many places. 

Do this:

• Pack a universal adapter (best for multi-country trips)
• Check your chargers: if they say “100–240V”, you’re fine with just an adapter

9) 

Respect Local Culture (Especially at Temples)

Vietnam is relaxed, but temples and pagodas have basic etiquette.

Dress code (safe default):

• Cover shoulders and knees
• Bring a light scarf/shawl just in case
• Speak softly and don’t climb on things meant for worship  

Quick win: Dressing respectfully gets you better vibes everywhere, not just temples.

10) 

Tipping Culture: Not Required, But Always Nice

Tipping in Vietnam is not mandatory, but it’s appreciated—especially in tourist services.

Practical tipping guide:

• Small change for helpful service (bell staff, drivers who really help, etc.)
• Guides/drivers on tours: tip if you had a great experience
• In restaurants: rounding up or a small amount is welcome, especially in tourist areas

Local truth: Nobody will chase you down for not tipping—but kindness travels well.

Final Thoughts: Welcome to Vietnam 🇻🇳

If 2026 is your first Vietnam trip, you’re in for a seriously fun ride—great food, stunning places, and a vibe that’s hard to beat. Save this guide, send it to your travel buddy who’s “still deciding,” and you’ll already be ahead of most first-timers.

If this post helped, share it with a friend planning Vietnam Travel 2026—it might save them from overpaying for a taxi or accidentally packing the wrong plug adapter.