Common Tourist Scams in Vietnam — And How to Avoid Them Easily

Vietnam is one of the most beautiful, exciting, and friendly countries in Southeast Asia — but like any busy tourist destination, it has a few common scams you should be aware of.

Good news?They’re all easy to avoid once you know what to look for.

Let’s break down the three biggest ones: taxi scams, street vendor scams, and motorbike rental scams, with simple tips to stay safe while enjoying your trip.

There Are Common Tourist Scams in Vietnam

1. Taxi Scams — The Most Classic Tourist Trap

Taxi scams are one of the most talked-about issues in Vietnam, especially in big cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang.



🔹Common Taxi Scams:

• Fake taxi companies with logos designed to look like trustworthy brands

• Rigged meters that jump quickly

• Taking the long way on purpose

• Claiming “no change” and keeping extra money

🔹 How to Avoid Taxi Scams:

Use Grab, Be, or Gojek — Vietnam’s ride-hailing apps

• Available in most cities

• Clear pricing

• GPS tracking

• No cash confusion

• Safe for solo travelers

  
  

If you must take a regular taxi, choose:

• Mai Linh Taxi (green)

• Vinasun Taxi (white)These are the most reputable companies.

Tip: Always check the car plate and logo to avoid imitators.

2. Street Vendor Scams — Harmless but Tricky

Street vendors are usually friendly, and many are honest. But in tourist areas, you may encounter a few classic scams.

🔹 Common Street Vendor Scams:

• “Photo trap” vendors (e.g., carrying baskets or snakes): They invite you for a photo, then charge high fees.

• Overpriced fruit or snacks with no price listed.

• Weighing scams: Fruit weighed on “broken” scales.

• Money swap trick: Vendor pretends you gave them a smaller bill and asks for more.

🔹 How to Avoid These Scams:

• Ask for the price before buying anything.

• Politely refuse photos with costumed vendors unless you agree on a price.

• Buy from stalls with clear menus or price boards.

• In markets, compare prices before deciding.

Tip: Street food stalls with locals lining up are usually fair and delicious.

3. Motorbike Rental Scams — The Sneaky One

Renting a motorbike is super common in Vietnam — but you need to choose the right shop.

🔹 Common Motorbike Rental Scams:

• Extra charges for “existing damage” you didn’t cause

• Keeping your passport as deposit and refusing to return it

• Low-quality bikes with dangerous brakes or worn tires

• Bikes stolen on purpose (if the shop keeps the spare key)

  
  

🔹 How to Avoid Motorbike Rental Scams:

• Never leave your passport — use cash deposit instead.

• Take photos/videos of the bike from all angles before leaving.

• Choose reputable rental shops with Google Reviews.

• Always check brakes, lights, mirrors, and tires.

• Don’t rent the absolute cheapest bike — if it’s too cheap, there’s a reason.

  
  

Tip: In places like Da Nang, Hoi An, Saigon, and Hanoi, you can find reliable bike rental shops easily — ask your hotel for recommendations.

Bonus: Other Scams to Watch Out For

Not as common, but still worth knowing:

🔹Money Exchange Scams

Always exchange money at banks or legit exchange counters — never on the street.

🔹Tailor & Souvenir Shop Pressure Sales

If someone insists too hard, just smile and walk away.

🔹Bus/Taxi “Luggage Fee” Trick

Some drivers try to charge extra for bags.Most buses include luggage in the ticket price.

General Tips to Stay Safe in Vietnam

✔ Use ride-hailing apps (Grab / Gojek / Be)

✔ Avoid unofficial taxis

✔ Confirm prices before buying

✔ Don’t hand over your passport casually

✔ Keep your bag in front of you in crowds

✔ Check Google reviews for shops and rentals

✔ Trust your intuition — if it feels off, skip it

Vietnam is incredibly safe overall — these tips are just to help you enjoy confidently.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Scams Scare You — Vietnam Is Amazing!

Yes, some scams exist — just like in any popular destination. But most travelers spend days, weeks, and even months in Vietnam without a single problem.

Learn the signs, stay aware, and you’ll be totally fine.

Vietnam is full of friendly people, incredible food, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences.With a little awareness, you’ll enjoy the country with total peace of mind.

Before You Go…

Think you know Vietnam well? Test yourself! Try our Quiz Passport — Know Before You Go Vietnam edition on YouTube! Fun, quick quizzes for travel lovers who want to explore smarter.

Quiz Passport QP-002 Vietnam

If you want to enjoy Vietnam’s nightlife safely and confidently, check out our YouTube video:‘🇻🇳🎌 Secrets of Japan Town Revealed! Interview with the Owners of Mirai Bar in Ho Chi Minh City.

’Watch here ➤ https://youtu.be/EtoSik3XgPo”



Secrets of Japan Town Revealed!