Drinking Water in Vietnam: A Friendly Guide for Thirsty Travelers
- MASX
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Traveling through Vietnam means lots of delicious food, exciting street markets, and hot tropical weather — and that means one thing: you’ll need to stay hydrated!The good news? Staying safe with drinking water in Vietnam is super easy once you know the basics.
Let’s keep this light, fun, and refreshing — just like that iced Vietnamese coffee you’re probably craving already.
Can You Drink Tap Water in Vietnam?
Answer: Not recommended
Vietnam’s tap water is generally treated, but pipes in many areas aren’t built for drinking water purity. Locals boil water or use purifiers — and as a traveler, it’s best to follow their lead.
BUT don’t worry! Safe drinking options are everywhere and super affordable.
Best & Safest Ways to Drink Water in Vietnam
1. Bottled Water (Most Common & Easiest)
You’ll find sealed bottled water everywhere: convenience stores, cafés, hotels, street vendors, even tour buses.
Look for trusted brands like:
La Vie
Aquafina
Dasani
Vĩnh Hảo
Tip: Always make sure the seal is unbroken before buying.
2. Hotel & Restaurant Purified Water
Most hotels, cafés, and restaurants use purified water or large refillable dispensers.
You can safely drink:
Water from hotel lobby dispensers
Water given at cafés or restaurants
Water offered on guided tours
Vietnam takes tourist safety seriously — purified water is widely used.
3. Boiled Water (Locals’ Favorite Method)
Many Vietnamese households boil water daily for drinking. So if you’re staying in a homestay or local guesthouse, boiled water is absolutely safe.
4. Refill Stations & Eco-Friendly Options
Vietnam is joining the global refill movement! In big cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll find more cafés and hostels offering free refills to reduce plastic waste.
Bring a reusable water bottle — the planet will thank you.
What About Ice? Is It Safe?
Surprisingly — yes, usually! Ice in restaurants and cafés is made in certified factories using purified water.
Safe ice:
Cylindrical with a hole in the middle (This type is factory-made and clean.)
Street vendors may use chipped block ice, so when in doubt, choose drinks with tube ice only.
Drinks That Are Always Safe & Delicious
Vietnam loves beverages — and most are perfectly safe to enjoy:
Cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee)
Fresh coconuts 🥥
Sugarcane juice (freshly pressed!)
Fruit smoothies
Herbal teas
Coconuts are especially popular — nature’s own hydration bottle.
Hydration Tips for Travelers
Vietnam’s weather can be hot and humid, so staying hydrated keeps you energized and happy.
Here’s how to stay on top of it:
Carry a water bottle when sightseeing
Drink more during outdoor activities
Mix in electrolytes on hot days
Take cooling breaks (iced drinks included!)
Don’t wait until you feel thirsty
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