How We Ride In Vietnam – Dos And Don’ts When Riding Bikes

Intro

Vietnam is a beautiful country with breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture. It’s a popular destination for travelers from all over the world, and one of the best ways to experience its beauty is by traveling on a motorcycle. Let’s see how we ride in Vietnam to know what to expect in your upcoming adventure!

How We Ride In Vietnam: What To Expect

Traveling by motorcycle in Vietnam can be a unique and fantastic experience, but knowing what to expect before setting out on your journey is extremely important.  First and foremost, it’s crucial to understand that traffic in Vietnam might seem deranged, especially in big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. This is our received wisdom after a couple of times touring in the crazy traffic of this country. This is our first impression of this amazing country: dynamic and chaotic. Everywhere we go, we see lots of motorcycles. They are a popular mode of transportation, and you’ll find them weaving in and out of traffic, often ignoring traffic rules. Therefore, it’s essential to stay alert and cautious at all times when having an adventure ride in Vietnam. Another factor to consider is the condition of the roads. Vietnam’s road infrastructure is not always up to Western standards, and you may encounter rough terrain, poorly maintained roads, and narrow paths. Additionally, the weather in Vietnam can be unpredictable, with sudden rain showers and storms. Be sure to check the weather forecast before embarking on your epic journey, and bring rain gear.  Finally, it’s important to wear appropriate gear when riding a motorcycle in Vietnam, such as a helmet, riding jacket, gloves, and sturdy footwear.

Do And Don’ts When Riding In Vietnam

Although riding a motorcycle in Vietnam can be extremely fun, there are several rules you need to follow to keep both you and other road users safe. Here are some of the most important ones that we have applied to have wonderful and safe Vietnam motorbike tours.

Dos

• Wear appropriate gear: Wearing a helmet, riding jacket, gloves, and sturdy footwear is crucial for an adventure rider in a motorcycle tour in Vietnam. This will help protect you from the elements and potential accidents.
• Follow traffic laws: While traffic can be chaotic in Vietnam, it’s important to follow traffic laws to ensure your safety and the safety of others.
• Follow the tour guides: The guides are familiar with Vietnamese traffic as they were born and raised here. Follow their instructions and ride behind them for safety.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Stay alert and cautious at all times, especially on mountain roads. Be mindful of other vehicles and potential obstacles on the road.
• Watch out for pedestrians: Pedestrians are common on the roads in Vietnam, and they often cross the street at random intervals. Be alert and slow down when approaching crowded areas to avoid accidents.
• Stay hydrated: Vietnam’s tropical climate can be hot and humid, so it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your journey.
• Plan your route: Plan your route in advance. Also, research road conditions and potential hazards before setting out.
• Take breaks: Take regular breaks to stretch your legs and rest your eyes. This will help you stay alert and focused during your journey.
• Enjoy scenic views: Vietnam is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Take your time to enjoy the scenic routes and stop at viewpoints and attractions along the way.

Don’ts

• Don’t drink and ride: Driving under the influence of alcohol is dangerous and illegal. Avoid drinking and riding, as this can put you and others at risk.
• Don’t ride without a drivers license: Ensure you have a valid international license before riding in Vietnam. Driving without a license is not only illegal but also unsafe.
• Don’t carry too much luggage: Overloading your rented or private motorbike can affect your balance and control, which can be dangerous on Vietnam’s unpredictable roads.
• Don’t ride too fast: Speeding is dangerous and can lead to accidents. Observe the speed limit and adjust your speed based on the road conditions.
• Don’t ride at night: Riding at night can be dangerous due to poor visibility and increased risk of accidents. Plan your journey to avoid riding at night.
• Don’t ignore traffic laws: Follow traffic laws and signs to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.
• Don’t ride without insurance: It’s important to have proper insurance coverage during your amazing motorcycle riding. This will help cover any potential accidents or damages.

What To Prepare

It’s important to be prepared to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Here is a guide on preparing for a motorcycle tour in Vietnam.

Clothing

• Helmet: A helmet is a must-have. Make sure it fits well and meets safety standards.
• Riding jacket: It can protect you from wind, rain, and potential accidents. Look for one with protective padding and ventilation.
• Gloves: They will provide additional protection for your hands and improve your grip on the handlebars.
• Sturdy footwear: Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear that offers a good grip on the pedals (in case of bad weather or off-road motorbike tours) and protects your feet from the elements.

Personal Items

• Valid motorcycle license: Make sure you have a valid motorcycle license before setting out on your journey.
• Passport and visa: Keep your passport and visa in a safe and accessible place.
• Cash and credit cards: Bring enough cash and credit cards to cover your expenses during your journey.
• Mobile phone and charger: A mobile phone can be useful for navigation, communication, and emergencies.
• Sunscreen and insect repellent: Vietnam’s tropical climate can be hot and humid, and you’ll want to protect your skin from the sun and insects.

Emergency Items

• First aid kit: Bring a basic kit with bandages, antiseptic, and pain relievers.
• Roadside assistance kit: Bring items like a spare tire, tire repair kit, and tools to fix minor issues.

Touring Gear

• Maps and navigation tools: Bring maps, a GPS device, or a mobile phone with Google Maps to navigate your route.
• Waterproof bags: Use waterproof bags to keep your belongings dry during rain showers.

The Bottom Line

Now you know how we ride in Vietnam. Follow these guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable and amazing adventure in this epic country. Always prioritize your safety and be aware of the unique riding culture and customs to avoid accidents and mishaps. Follow our website if you want more touring details of other exhilarating Vietnam motorbike tours. What riders have said about Vietnam Motorcycle Tours on Tripadvisor!