Essential Apps for Traveling to Vietnam
31 apps · Apps verified September 15, 2026 · Guide written April 1, 2025
Quick Answer
What apps do I need in Vietnam?
For Vietnam, most travelers should download Yesim, Airalo, Holafly, and Saily before arrival for transport, payments, maps, and connectivity. International cards are widely accepted, though keeping a backup payment option is still wise. Tap water is not generally safe to drink, so plan on bottled or filtered water.
Sources
Links used to keep the country guide current and easy to verify.
Frequently Asked Questions
Short answers to the questions travelers and AI assistants ask most often.
What apps do I need in Vietnam?
Key apps are Grab, Be (local alternative), Google Maps, a VPN for privacy, and a translation app.
Is Uber available in Vietnam?
No. Uber exited Vietnam in 2018. Grab and Be are the main platforms.
What is the best payment app in Vietnam?
MoMo is the leading e-wallet. For tourists, Grab Pay and cash are most practical.
Do I need a VPN in Vietnam?
Vietnam does not heavily block content, but a VPN improves speed and privacy for longer stays.
Can I drink tap water in Vietnam?
No, tap water is not safe to drink in Vietnam. Do not drink tap water. Bottled water is very cheap (5,000-10,000 VND). Ice in tourist restaurants is usually safe (made from purified water). Ask 'da sach' (clean ice) if unsure.
If you use these apps at home
How the big global apps hold up in Vietnam — and what locals use instead.
- If you use Uber
- For ride-hailing, locals in Vietnam typically use Grab.
- If you use Uber Eats
- For food delivery, locals in Vietnam typically use GrabFood and ShopeeFood.
- If you use WhatsApp
- For messaging, locals in Vietnam typically use Zalo and Facebook Messenger.
- If you use Google Maps Works here
- Yes — Google Maps works in Vietnam. Locals also use BusMap and Vexere.
- If you use Google Translate
- For translation, locals in Vietnam typically use DeepL.
- If you use Amazon
- For online shopping, locals in Vietnam typically use Shopee.
- If you use Netflix Works here
- Yes — Netflix works in Vietnam.
Finance & Payments
3 apps
eSIM & Data Plans
4 apps
Already use N26, Revolut, or Truecaller? Some bank apps now bundle travel data, so check yours first. If not, these standalone eSIMs are the best value:
Ride Hailing
3 apps
Public Transit
3 apps
Navigation
1 app
Food Delivery
2 apps
Communication
3 apps
Shopping
3 apps
Tours & Experiences
2 apps
Health & Insurance
3 apps
Media & Entertainment
2 apps
Border & Entry
2 apps
💳 Payment Methods in Vietnam
Tourist Accessibility
Moderate accessibility
International Cards
ATM availability: common
Accepted Payment Methods
Popular Local Payment Apps
💡 Cash still dominant especially at street vendors, markets, and small restaurants. VietQR system unifying QR payments but mostly for locals. Cards accepted at hotels, malls, and chain restaurants. MoMo widely accepted but requires Vietnamese bank account. Grab is the best cashless option for tourists.
Travel Information for Vietnam
Common Requirements
- Passport valid 6+ months
- Return ticket
- Proof of accommodation
🏧 ATM Tips
Widely available, max withdrawal usually 2-3 million VND per transaction, fees 20,000-50,000 VND
💱 Money Exchange Tips
Best rates at gold shops and authorized exchange counters, avoid airport exchanges. USD widely accepted for larger purchases, ensure bills are crisp and new (2013 or later).
Cultural Notes
Remove shoes when entering homes/temples, dress modestly at religious sites, avoid public displays of affection
Safety Rating
Emergency Numbers
Tap Water
Do not drink tap water. Bottled water is very cheap (5,000-10,000 VND). Ice in tourist restaurants is usually safe (made from purified water). Ask 'da sach' (clean ice) if unsure.
Power Outlets
220V, 50Hz
Mix of US (Type A) and European (Type C) outlets. Most hotels have both types. US plugs generally work. UK visitors need adapter.
Tipping
Tipping is not a strong tradition in Vietnam but is increasingly expected in tourist areas. Small tips are appreciated for good service.
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)
Best option. Pick up at designated area outside arrivals. Fixed price in app. Avoid regular taxis.
Use ONLY Vinasun (white) or Mai Linh (green) — official and metered. Avoid unmarked taxis.
Air-conditioned, runs every 15-20 min. Stops near Ben Thanh Market. Budget option.
Noi Bai International Airport (HAN)
Most reliable option. Pick up outside arrivals. Fixed price.
Express bus to Hanoi Railway Station. Runs every 25 min, 6:25am-10pm.
Use official taxi stand only. Insist on meter. Noi Bai Taxi and Mai Linh are most reliable.
⚠️ Cyclo/Motorbike Taxi Overcharging
Cyclo drivers and xe om (motorbike taxis) quote a low price then demand 10x more at the destination, sometimes claiming the price was per minute not per trip.
Use Grab exclusively for rides. If using a cyclo for the experience, agree on price clearly in writing/calculator before getting on. Take a photo of the agreed price.
⚠️ Shoe Shine/Snatch Scam
Someone grabs your shoe to 'clean' it, or kids distract you while someone snatches your phone or bag. Common in tourist areas of HCMC and Hanoi.
Firmly say no and walk away. Keep valuables secure in front pockets or cross-body bag. Be aware in crowded areas.
⚠️ Currency Confusion
Vietnamese dong has many zeros (100,000 VND, 200,000 VND, 500,000 VND notes look similar). Vendors may 'accidentally' give change for 10,000 instead of 100,000.
Familiarize yourself with the different note colors and sizes. Count your change carefully. Use the calculator on your phone.
⚠️ Fake Taxi Meter
Unlicensed or dodgy taxis have rigged meters that run 2-5x faster than actual distance.
Only use Vinasun (white) or Mai Linh (green) taxis. Better yet, use Grab for all rides.
✈️ Download Before You Go
Get these apps ready on your phone before boarding
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