Travel essentials for Vietnam

Adapters, plugs, tap water, tipping and health basics.

Power & adapters

Type A, C, F adapter required

Most sockets take both flat and round pins, but not the Australian Type I plug. Bring a universal adapter.

220V, 50Hz

Tap water

Not safe to drink

Don't drink the tap water. Bottled water is very cheap. Ice in cities is commercially produced and generally fine.

Staying connected

Excellent and cheap, including on trains and in most rural areas.

Vietnam has some of the cheapest mobile data anywhere — an eSIM with 30GB often costs under AUD $12. Viettel has the best rural coverage.

Compare Vietnam eSIMs

Health risks

Road trauma, especially on scooters
Dengue fever
Food and water-borne illness
Air pollution in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City

Emergency numbers in Vietnam

All emergencies	113 police / 115 ambulance
Police	113
Ambulance	115
Fire	114
Australian consulate	Australian Embassy Hanoi — +84 24 3774 0100

Tipping and everyday costs

Not traditionally expected but increasingly common in tourism. ₫20,000 – ₫50,000 for a driver or guide is generous. Upmarket restaurants add a 5% service charge plus 8 – 10% VAT.

More Vietnam essentials

Entry requirements Passport, visa, arrival cards and customs rules for Australian passport holders. Connectivity Instant data, no physical SIM required. Travel insurance Medical, cancellation and luggage cover from Australian insurers. Money & payments Cards, cash and FX fees for Australian travellers. Airport transfer Trains, buses, private transfers and taxis compared. Driving International Driving Permit rules and car hire for Australians. Things to do Attractions, tours and passes worth booking ahead. Trip checklist Tick off every essential before you fly.

Vietnam travel essentials FAQs

What adapter do I need for Vietnam?

A universal adapter. Vietnamese sockets accept flat American-style and round European pins, but not the angled Australian Type I plug. Voltage is 220V, close enough to Australia's 230V.