Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime in Vietnam without breaking the bank? Look no further! This blog is packed with general tips and tricks for exploring Vietnam on a broke budget. From affordable accommodation options to delicious street food and stunning natural wonders, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the most of your trip.
Note: In this blog, we’ll focus on general tips for traveling around Vietnam, but we won’t really be covering the motorbiking in Vietnam… yet! Stay tuned for a future blog post dedicated entirely to motorbiking adventures in Vietnam, where we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty details of exploring the country on two wheels. For now, let’s get started on planning your epic Vietnamese adventure!
How to get there:
From Cambodia:
- Bus: Take a bus from Phnom Penh or Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City (around 6-8 hours, $5-$10)
- Tourist Bus: Companies like Mekong Express and Sapaco offer daily services from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City (around 6 hours, $10-$20)
- Boat and Bus: Travel from Phnom Penh to Chau Doc, then take a bus to Ho Chi Minh City (around 8 hours, $10-$20)
From Laos:
- Bus: Take a bus from Vientiane or Luang Prabang to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City (around 20-30 hours, $15-$35)
- Slow Boat and Bus: Travel from Luang Prabang to Dien Bien Phu, then take a bus to Hanoi (around 30 hours, $20-$40)
From China:
Bus: Take a bus from Kunming or Nanning to Hanoi (around 30 hours, $20-$40)
Train and Bus: Take a train from Kunming or Nanning to Pingxiang, then transfer to a bus to Hanoi (around 24 hours, $30-$60)
When to go:
Weather:
- Spring (March to May): Mild temperatures, minimal rain, and lush landscapes make spring an ideal time to explore Vietnam.
- Summer (June to August): Hot and humid weather, with frequent rain showers, but a great time for beach activities and festivals.
- Autumn (September to November): Comfortable temperatures, reduced rain, and stunning autumn foliage.
- Winter (December to February): Cooler temperatures, especially in the north, with occasional cold snaps.
Regional Variations:
- North Vietnam: Cooler winters, with potential fog and frost, while summers are hot and humid.
- Central Vietnam: Dryer and hotter than the north, with intense summer heat.
- South Vietnam: Warm and humid year-round, with frequent rain showers.
Events and Festivals:
- Tet Festival (late January or early February): Vietnam’s most important holiday, with vibrant celebrations and traditional activities.
- Hoi An Full Moon Festival (monthly): Lantern-filled streets, traditional performances, and local food.
- Hanoi Street Food Festival (September): Savor local cuisine and drinks in the capital city.
- Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (June to August): Spectacular fireworks displays.
Best Times for Broke Backpackers:
Off-Season (December to February): Lowest prices, fewer tourists, but cooler temperatures in the north.
Shoulder Season (April to May and September to November): Avoid crowds, enjoy mild weather, and take advantage of lower prices.
Best Itineraries:
1 Week:
- Day 1-2: Hanoi (explore Old Quarter, visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum)
- Day 3-4: Ha Long Bay (take an overnight boat trip)
- Day 5-6: Hoi An (wander ancient town, get custom clothes made)
- Day 7: Return to Hanoi for departure
2 Weeks:
- Day 1-3: Hanoi (explore Old Quarter, visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, take a day trip to Sapa)
- Day 4-6: Ha Long Bay (take an overnight boat trip) and Cat Ba Island (relax on beaches)
- Day 7-9: Hue (visit Imperial City, Tombs, and Pagodas)
- Day 10-12: Hoi An (wander ancient town, get custom clothes made, take a cooking class)
- Day 13-14: Return to Hanoi for departure
1 Month:
- Week 1: Hanoi (explore Old Quarter, visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, take a day trip to Sapa)
- Week 2: Ha Long Bay (take an overnight boat trip), Cat Ba Island (relax on beaches), and Ninh Binh (explore caves and temples)
- Week 3: Hue (visit Imperial City, Tombs, and Pagodas), Hoi An (wander ancient town, get custom clothes made, take a cooking class)
- Week 4: Ho Chi Minh City (explore Ben Thanh Market, visit War Remnants Museum), Mekong Delta (take a boat trip)
3 Months:
Month 3: South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc Island) – explore cities, take boat trips, and relax on beaches
Month 1: Hanoi (explore Old Quarter, visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, take day trips to Sapa, Ha Long Bay, and Ninh Binh)
Month 2: Central Vietnam (Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang, Quy Nhon, Nha Trang) – explore ancient towns, beaches, and national parks
Transportation:
Public transportation in Vietnam is an incredibly intricate network of buses, taxis, and motorbikes. Scary at first sight, there is a logic that can make your tour through this pretty country just a piece of cake. In this guide, we are going to take a look at the different public transportation modes, and why buying a motorbike is generally the best option when it comes to getting around.
Buses:
- Local Buses: Affordable, frequent, and connect major cities.
- Tourist Buses: Comfortable, air-conditioned, and cater to tourists.
- Night Buses: Convenient for long-distance travel, but be prepared for bumpy rides.
Taxis:
- Traditional Taxis: Widely available, but be mindful of scams and metered fares.
- Ride-hailing Apps: Grab, Go-Van, and Be are popular alternatives.
Trains:
- Reunification Express: Connects Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, with varying classes.
- Local Trains: Slow, but scenic, and a great way to meet locals.
Motorbikes:
- Renting: Affordable, flexible, and widely available.
- Buying: The best way to explore Vietnam, with prices starting from $200.
Why Buying a Motorbike is the Best Option:
- Freedom: Explore Vietnam at your own pace, whenever and wherever you want.
- Cost-Effective: Save money on transportation costs in the long run.
- Immersive Experience: Connect with locals, enjoy scenic routes, and feel the wind in your hair.
Tips for Buying a Motorbike:
Registration: Register the bike in your name, and obtain a Vietnamese driver’s license
Research: Choose a reliable model, like a Honda Wave or Yamaha Nouvo.
Test Drive: Ensure the bike is in good condition.
Top things to do:
Northern Vietnam:
- Hanoi:
- Explore Old Quarter
- Visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
- Enjoy street food
- Visit Temple of Literature
- Take a day trip to Ninh Binh
- Visit Dong Xuan Market
- Explore West Lake
- Ha Long Bay:
- Take an overnight boat trip
- Kayak or swim in emerald waters
- Visit Cat Ba Island
- Explore hidden caves
- Visit Sung Sot Cave
- Take a sunset cruise
- Sapa:
- Trek to nearby villages
- Visit Bac Ha Market
- Enjoy scenic views
- Take a homestay experience
- Visit Fansipan Peak
- Explore Muong Hoa Valley
- Ninh Binh:
- Explore Tam Coc
- Visit Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
- Take a boat trip through Trang An Grottoes
- Visit Mua Cave
- Explore Cuc Phuong National Park
Central Vietnam:
- Hue:
- Explore Imperial City
- Visit Tombs and Pagodas
- Take a dragon boat trip
- Visit Thien Mu Pagoda
- Explore Royal Antiquities Museum
- Visit Forbidden Purple City
- Take a day trip to DMZ
- Hoi An:
- Wander ancient town
- Get custom clothes made
- Take a cooking class
- Visit Japanese Bridge
- Explore nearby beaches
- Visit My Son Sanctuary
- Take a day trip to Marble Mountains
- Da Nang:
- Visit Marble Mountains
- Relax on beaches
- Explore nearby waterfalls
- Take a day trip to Ba Na Hills
- Visit Linh Ung Pagoda
- Explore Con Market
- Quy Nhon:
- Visit Cham Towers
- Explore nearby beaches
- Take a day trip to Tuy Hoa
- Visit Quy Nhon Museum
- Explore nearby islands
Southern Vietnam:
- Ho Chi Minh City:
- Explore Ben Thanh Market
- Visit War Remnants Museum
- Take a day trip to Cu Chi Tunnels
- Visit Notre Dame Cathedral
- Explore Chinatown
- Visit Museum of Vietnamese History
- Take a day trip to Mekong Delta
- Mekong Delta:
- Take a boat trip
- Visit floating markets
- Explore rural villages
- Take a homestay experience
- Visit traditional workshops
- Explore Can Tho Market
- Visit Vinh Long Province
- Phu Quoc Island:
- Relax on beaches
- Explore national parks
- Take a snorkeling or diving trip
- Visit Duong Dong Market
- Explore nearby islands
- Visit Phu Quoc Prison
Additional Destinations:
- Nha Trang:
- Visit Po Nagar Cham Towers
- Explore nearby beaches
- Take a snorkeling or diving trip
- Visit Nha Trang Bay
- Explore Hon Tam Island
- Dalat:
- Explore Crazy House
- Visit Bao Dai Summer Palace
- Take a day trip to nearby waterfalls
- Visit Dalat Market
- Explore Xuan Huong Lake
- Can Tho:
- Visit Cai Rang Floating Market
- Explore rural villages
- Take a homestay experience
- Visit Can Tho Museum
- Explore nearby islands
- Vung Tau:
- Visit Jesus Christ Statue
- Explore nearby beaches
- Take a day trip to Con Dao Islands
- Visit Vung Tau Lighthouse
- Explore local markets
- Mui Ne:
- Visit Sand Dunes
- Explore nearby beaches
- Take a day trip to Ta Cu Mountain
- Visit Mui Ne Market
- Explore nearby fishing villages
Food:
The food situation there is one symphony of food that will keep your taste buds dancing. From bustling street markets to cozy restaurants, Vietnam’s food scene is an adventure waiting to happen. Its strategic location, climate, and cultural heritage have combined to form this unique fusion of flavors, textures, and aromas.
Some of the most iconic dishes in Vietnamese cuisine include Pho, considered the national dish, which has won the hearts of every foodie around the world. It is a steaming bowl of beef noodle soup, a staple in every Vietnamese household, with rich broth, tender beef, and crunchy herbs. Other popular dishes include Banh Mi, a crunchy baguette stuffed with pickled veggies, herbs, and different types of meats to showcase the French colonial markings on Vietnamese food.
Street food is at the heart of Vietnamese culture; from morning to sunset, dishes of food are sold at affordable prices by these food vendors. Name it, from crispy Banh Xeo pancakes filled with shrimp and pork to the savory mini pancake named Banh Khot, each region has a specialty. While in Hanoi, the absolute must is Cha Ca La Vong, or the so-called legendary grilled fish with dill and turmeric, in Ho Chi Minh City, one must try their version of a dish that translates as Com Tam Broken Rice with grilled pork and egg.
The geography and climate contour the regional specialties of Vietnam. The north is heavy with hearty and spicy dishes, while sweet and fresh flavors are favored by the south. The imperial city of Hue claims a unique culinary heritage, such as Bun Bo Hue-a spicy beef noodle soup. Hoi An is a charming coastal town that is famous for its Cao Lau, or braised pork noodle soup.
Fresh markets are the life of Vietnamese cuisine, where locals find fresh produce, meats, and seafood. Ben Thanh Market of Ho Chi Minh City and Dong Xuan Market of Hanoi are two places a foodie should never miss. Observe the vendors skillfully preparing ingredients, taste local delicacies, and experience all the sights and sounds of smelling Vietnamese food.
Eating in Vietnam requires an open mind and willingness to taste new flavors. Use chopsticks, share dishes with locals, and respect cultural traditions.
In Vietnamese cuisine, everything is at one’s fingertips, from the cheapest to the costliest. Street food is very cheap; meals start from just a dollar. Fresh markets have items and ingredients rather cheaply available. Small restaurants, often run by families, serve real dishes at unbeatably low prices compared to upscale restaurants.
So yea, when you go out into the world of food in Vietnam, take along a few key phrases in Vietnamese that’ll make dining even more fun. Visit local markets for new ingredients and flavors. Don’t be afraid to try new foods and flavors; that’s just part of the adventure! And for the best food just ask locals. Happy eating!
Culture:
Vietnamese culture is steeped in centuries of history, tradition, and influence, intertwined into a rich brocade. From the ashes of war, this country now stands proud, defiantly showing the world its resiliency, hospitality, and greatness in heritage.
The cultural identity of Vietnam is buried beneath a 4,000-year history. Ancient Chinese dynasties, French colonialism, and American involvement give the architecture, art, and tradition of the Vietnamese a character uniquely different from those of its neighbors. Evidence that the long, hard struggle for independence and reunification has wrought a solid feeling of pride in the nation.
Traditional core values in Vietnamese culture emphasize respect for elders, the family, the community, and spirituality. Prime positions are occupied by filial piety and ancestor worship, with close-knit families believed to be the building blocks of society. Neighborhood and village life reinforces this aspect of social bonding within the communities, while Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism influence spiritual life.
Throughout the year, numerous festivals and traditions take place in Vietnam. Some of the most significant events include Tet Nguyen Dan, or Lunar New Year-a time for renewal and rebirth-and the very popular Mid-Autumn Festival, filled with colorful lanterns, lion dances, and mooncakes. Hung Kings Commemoration, to respect the legendary founders of Vietnam, displays the very rich history of the nation.
The essential Vietnamese art is really all about the people going into making it. Similarly, traditional music of Vietnam and instrumental performance follow through in any celebration of cultural activity. Water puppetry was an ancient medium for storytelling that still survives and is absolutely delightful. Beautiful calligraphy adorns silk and paper, while architectural expression blends Chinese, French, and indigenous styles.
Food is fresh, simple, and regional in preparation throughout Vietnam. Being the national dish, Pho is a beef noodle soup recognized on an international basis. Other popular ones are Banh Mi, or the crunchy baguette filled with pickled veggies and meats; and Go Cuon, or fresh spring rolls, which depict freshness in its ingredients.
Social etiquette is observed for visitors in smooth navigation in Vietnamese culture. The key ones are giving and receiving items using both hands, not entering home or temple premises with shoes on, and respect is given to elders. One should get dressed discreetly, covering shoulders and knees, to show respect for the local customs.
Today, Vietnam underlines one pole of tradition and modernity; rapid economic growth and urbanization have transformed the nation, while education is oriented toward science, technology, and innovation. Tourism has become a growing industry in showcasing that cultural heritage to visitors.
The cultural being of the Vietnamese thus reiterates a dynamic juxtaposition of past with present, and traditional with innovative. It is the embracing of values, customs, and heritage that allows the visitor to create meaningful relationships with this enchanting country and its people.
The Vietnamese Cultural Centers are a hub of information equipped with museums, galleries, and performance spaces that manifest the rich heritage of the nation. Local festivals and celebrations will give you first-hand experience with Vietnam’s vibrant culture. You will get to understand the culture more deeply when you learn the Vietnamese language, and homestays will give you an immersed experience into daily life with locals.
Coming into contact with most of this vibrant culture of Vietnam opens up a country that truly welcomes visitors and proudly shares its rich heritage.
Accommodations:
What worked for me and most of my fellow poor backpackers was that the secret to finding amazing and quirky hostels isn’t to search through review sites or to pay extra for fancy amenities, but rather the opposite: just book the cheapest one. Repeatedly, my friends and I found that the budget choices end up being the real hidden gems. Sure, the description might be sparse and the photos questionable, but more often than not these below-the-radar hostels turn out to be teeming with community and character, full of fellow travelers and staff that become fast friends. You may have to give up a couple of frills, but it’s well worth the payoff – not only for your wallet but also for experiences and stories you have to tell when you take a chance with the unknown. So if you’re a fellow budget traveler looking for the real deal, take it from us: don’t overthink it, and just go for the cheapest option. Trust us, eventually it pays off!
Nightlife:
Vietnam’s nightlife has transformed into a thriving party scene, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. From bustling cities to laid-back beach towns, the country offers an array of nocturnal experiences.
Urban Hotspots
Cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, and Da Nang pulsate with energy after dark. Neon-lit bars, clubs, and lounges line the streets, offering everything from live music to DJ sets. These urban hubs attract locals, expats, and travelers alike, creating a dynamic and cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Beachside Bashes
Vietnam’s stunning coastline is dotted with beach towns, each boasting its unique party vibe. Nha Trang’s nightlife is legendary, with bars and clubs spilling onto the beach. Da Nang’s beachfront promenade transforms into a lively party zone after sunset. Phu Quoc Island’s laid-back atmosphere makes it perfect for relaxed beachside gatherings.
Rural Raves
Venturing into rural Vietnam reveals a different party landscape. Local festivals and celebrations, like the Mid-Autumn Festival, bring communities together for vibrant nighttime festivities. Travelers can experience traditional music, dance, and food, immersing themselves in rural Vietnamese culture.
Cultural Nights
Vietnam’s cultural heritage is showcased through traditional performances, such as water puppet shows and traditional music recitals. These events offer a glimpse into the country’s rich history and artistic expression. Visitors can enjoy these cultural nights in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hoi An’s ancient town, and other historic districts.
Expats and Local Hangouts
Expats and locals often gather in popular areas, like Hanoi’s Tay Ho and Ho Chi Minh’s District 1. These neighborhoods boast bars, restaurants, and cafes catering to diverse tastes. Travelers can mingle with locals, enjoy live sports broadcasts, and savor international cuisine.
Traveler Hotspots
Backpacker-friendly areas, such as Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Ho Chi Minh’s Pham Ngu Lao, are hubs for travelers. These districts offer affordable bars, clubs, and hostels, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
Safety and Precautions
While Vietnam’s nightlife is generally safe, travelers should exercise caution. Be aware of local scams, drink responsibly, and respect local customs. Stay informed about local events and festivals, which can sometimes impact nightlife.
Regional Variations
Vietnam’s regions boast distinct nightlife personalities. The north is known for its cultural performances and traditional music, while the central region is famous for its vibrant beach parties. The south offers a more laid-back atmosphere, with rooftop bars and live music venues.
Backpacking Vietnam costs:
Daily Budget
- Accommodation: $5-10 (dorms, hostels, or guesthouses)
- Food: $3-5 (street food, local markets, or cheap restaurants)
- Transportation: $2-5 (local buses, walking, or cycling)
- Miscellaneous: $2.50-5
Total daily budget: $12.50-25
Weekly Expenses
- Accommodation: $50-100 (avg. $7-14 per night)
- Food: $21-35 (avg. $3-5 per meal)
- Transportation: $14-35 (avg. $2-5 per ride)
- Miscellaneous: $17.50-35 (avg. $2.50-5 per day)
Total weekly budget: $102.50-205
Conclusion
Broke backpacking in Vietnam isn’t just about pinching pennies; it is a way to dive head-on into the culture, embracing uncertainty and finding beauty in that unexpectedness.
Get ready for stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and warm people of Vietnam. By following this budget breakdown and insider tips, you’re all set to tour the country on a shoestring budget.
Never be afraid to try something new, take the road less traveled, or talk with locals. Every moment, from challenging to chaotic, creates depth in the tapestry of your adventure.
Broke travel backpacking through Vietnam requires flexibility, resiliency, and an open heart. You will find the true essence of the place-the people, culture, and hidden gems-as you keep yourself open to such a way of thinking.
You will leave with a newfound personal growth, indelible experiences, and an affinity with this storied, traditional nation-state called Vietnam.
As you’re travelling along this enigmatic country, remember that the real taste of backpacking lies in the process and not in the destination as Shpongle says “We should concern ourselves not so much with the pursuit of happiness but with the happiness of pursuit”
