Vietnam Motorbike Tour – Pre-Trip Notes for Riders
(Please read carefully before traveling to Vietnam)
Dear Riders,
Welcome to your Vietnam motorbike adventure!
Before the engines start and the road begins to unfold, this Pre-Trip’s Notes guide is here to help you prepare with confidence. Vietnam is one of the most exciting countries in the world to explore by motorcycle—where winding mountain passes, peaceful valleys, vibrant villages, local markets, and unforgettable cultural encounters come together in one journey. It is a ride full of beauty, contrast, and discovery.
At the same time, riding in Vietnam is very different from riding in many Western countries. Road conditions, traffic flow, weather, and local driving culture can change quickly, sometimes within a single day. Good preparation is not only the key to safety—it is also the key to truly enjoying the experience.
This guide has been created to support you before departure and help you arrive ready in every important way: legal documents, insurance, essential riding gear, health preparation, road awareness, safety mindset, and practical travel readiness. It also helps set clear expectations about group riding, local traffic behavior, and responsible travel etiquette.
Please read it carefully, prepare well, and come with an open mind.
Ride smart, stay flexible, and Vietnam will reward you with memories that last a lifetime.
A. Before You Book Flights – Honest Self-Assessment (Very Important)
This tour is designed for riders who are comfortable riding for multiple consecutive days in changing road and weather conditions.
Please let us know in advance if any of the following applies to you:
- + You have limited recent riding experience
- + You are not confident riding in rain, mud, mountain roads, gravel, or traffic
- + You have a medical condition (back, knee, shoulder, heart, asthma, diabetes, etc.)
- + You are taking medication that may affect reaction time
- + You have dietary restrictions or allergies
- + You need a lower bike seat / lighter bike / support option
What Vietnam riding can feel like
Vietnam traffic is often flow-based, not always lane-perfect. In cities and towns, you must stay calm, predictable, and alert. In rural areas, roads can change suddenly: smooth asphalt → potholes → gravel → livestock crossing → local trucks → fog in mountain passes. This is normal, and part of the adventure.
The best riders here are not the fastest riders.
They are the most observant, patient, and consistent riders.
B.Legal & License Requirements (Must Read)
1) Riding legally in Vietnam
Riders must have a license that is legally valid for riding the relevant motorcycle category in Vietnam.
Under Vietnam’s road traffic law, valid licenses in Vietnam include (among others) a Vietnamese license and certain foreign/International Driving Permit combinations, including IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention, together with the corresponding national license. The law also states that IDP holders must carry both the valid IDP and the valid national driver license while riding in Vietnam.
2) Important note on IDP (International Driving Permit)
Not all international permits are treated the same in all countries.
Please check carefully before travel:
- + Your IDP is the correct type (1968 Vienna Convention format)
- + Your home license category covers motorcycles
- + The category is appropriate for the motorcycle you will ride
- + Both documents are valid during your entire trip
If you don’t know how to obtain such a called IDP under the 1968 convention then we can help
3) Convert Your License into an IDP (issued by International Automobile Association)
This converted IDP issued by International Automobile Association with validity of 3, 5, 10 & 20 years is widely accepted in Vietnam and legalized in more than 192 countries in the world.
For those who have difficulties in converting their local licenses into the IDP, We normally suggest them to do this way because it’s much more simple & easy for all to carry out as we can execute it online under some following specific requirments:
- + Your passport’s copy
- + Your local license’s copy (back & front)
- + Your selfie portrait
- + Your signature on a white paper
All those documents will be sent us by emails or whatsapp then after 7 – 10 working days, we’ll get them all done and hand over to you when you land either in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh city. In this way, you can ride comfortably in Vietnam
=> The conversion cost for a 3-year license is US$ 145
=> The conversion cost for a 5-year license is US$ 155
=> The conversion cost for a 10-year license is US$ 170
=> The conversion cost for a 20-year license is US$ 190
4) Carry your documents while riding
Please carry (or keep securely on your person, depending on guide instruction):
- + Passport copy (photo page + visa page / entry stamp page)
- + Valid national driving license
- + Valid IDP (if applicable)
- + Travel insurance details
- + Emergency contact details
- + Tour operator emergency contact card
5) Traffic violations & penalties
Vietnam applies traffic rules and penalties to foreigners as well. Decree 168/2024/ND-CP sets updated administrative penalties and a driver-license point deduction framework, and stricter enforcement has been highlighted since January 1, 2025.
Practical takeaway: ride legally, ride calmly, and follow the guide’s instructions at all times.
C. Zero-Alcohol / Drug Rule (Non-Negotiable)
Vietnamese law prohibits operating a vehicle when alcohol is detected in blood or breath, and also prohibits riding under narcotic substances or prohibited stimulants.
Our tour rule (strict)
- + No alcohol before or during riding hours
- + No recreational drugs
- + No riding while impaired by medication, fatigue, or illness
If you drink at dinner, that is your choice—but only after the bikes are parked for the day, and only in moderation.
D. Helmets, Safety Gear & What You Must Bring
Vietnamese law requires operators and passengers of motorbikes/mopeds to wear helmets compliant with national technical regulations and fasten them properly.
What we strongly recommend you bring (personal gear)
Helmet (recommended):
- + Your own full-face or adventure helmet (best fit = best safety)
- + Clear visor (essential for rain/fog/nightfall situations)
- + Optional tinted visor / sunglasses for daytime
Riding protection:
- + Armored jacket (mesh/adventure depending season)
- + Riding pants (or armored jeans minimum)
- + Gloves (at least 2 pairs if possible: dry + wet/rain pair)
- + Over-ankle riding boots (strongly recommended)
- + Lightweight neck buff / scarf (dust, sun, cold mornings)
Wet weather gear:
- + Quality rain suit (jacket + pants)
- + Waterproof gloves or glove covers
- + Waterproof bags / dry bags / ziplock organization bags
Comfort & health:
- + Earplugs (long riding days)
- + Sunscreen
- + Lip balm
- + Rehydration salts / electrolytes
- + Personal medication (pack enough for full trip + extra 3–5 days)
- + Motion sickness tablets (if you are sensitive on mountain roads)
What the tour company usually provides (confirm with us)
- + Motorcycle
- + Fuel (as per package)
- + Standard helmet (if you do not bring your own)
- + Basic luggage support / support vehicle (if included)
- + Mechanic support / guide support (depending tour type)
- + Basic first-aid kit (guide level)
E. Travel Documents, Visa & Entry Preparation (Before Flying to Vietnam)
1) Passport
Please ensure:
- + Passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond travel dates (recommended standard practice)
- + You have enough blank pages
- + Your passport condition is good (not damaged)
2) Vietnam visa / e-visa (if required by nationality)
Visa rules vary by nationality and can change. Please check your eligibility and requirements using the official Vietnam Immigration Department portals.
The official immigration portal states Vietnam e-visa validity can be up to 90 days, single or multiple entry, and it also provides official application links and conditions. It also announced operation via new domains including www.evisa.gov.vn and www.thithucdientu.gov.vn
The portal’s application guidance also notes the online process, required passport/photo upload, and indicates processing is generally stated as 3 working days (subject to review and real processing conditions).
3) Print + digital backups (highly recommended)
Please prepare:
- + Printed visa approval / e-visa (if applicable)
- + Passport scan
- + Travel insurance certificate
- + Flight tickets / booking references
- + Tour confirmation / emergency contact
- + Hotel first-night booking confirmation
Keep copies in:
- + Phone
- + Cloud storage
- + One printed set in luggage
- + One printed set in day bag (or guide packet)
F. Insurance (Critical – Please Read Carefully)
1) Travel insurance (mandatory recommendation)
Please purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers:
- + Medical expenses
- + Emergency evacuation / repatriation
- + Accidents
- + Hospital treatment
- + Trip interruption / cancellation
- + Personal liability (recommended)
- + Motorcycle riding activity (very important)
2) Check the motorcycle clause carefully
Many policies exclude:
- + Motorcycle riding above a certain engine size
- + Off-road riding / trail riding
- + Adventure or “hazardous” riding activities
- + Riding without appropriate local legal license / permit
- + Racing, timed riding, reckless riding
- + Riding without helmet / protective gear
Please read your policy wording and confirm:
- + Engine capacity covered (e.g. 150cc / 250cc / 300cc)
- + Riding surface covered (sealed road only or off-road included)
- + Guided tour coverage
- + Your home-country license / IDP compliance requirements
3) Vehicle damage / excess / deposit
Your tour package or rental agreement may include:
- + Bike damage deposit
- + Damage waiver / excess amount
- + Exclusions (e.g., negligence, intoxication, river crossing damage, racing, unauthorized rider)
Please read the vehicle terms before arrival so there are no surprises.
G. Health & Fitness Preparation (2–4 Weeks Before Tour)
Please prepare your body for consecutive riding days:
+ Light cardio (walking, cycling, swimming)
+ Mobility for shoulders, lower back, hips
+ Grip/forearm strength (especially for off-road riders)
+ Hydration habit before departure
+ Sleep discipline 3–5 days before flight
Tell us in advance if you have:
+ Allergies (food, medicine, insect bites)
+ Dietary needs (vegetarian, vegan, halal, gluten-free, etc.)
+ CPAP machine / medical device
+ Prior injuries affecting riding posture
+ Need for frequent breaks
H. Packing Strategy (What to Put Where)
1) Riding day bag (with you during the day)
+ Passport copy / ID copies
+ Wallet + small cash
+ Phone + charging cable / power bank
+ Water bottle / hydration pack
+ Sunscreen
+ Rain layer (easy access)
+ Medication for the day
+ Snacks / electrolytes
+ Sunglasses / clear glasses
+ Gloves (spare if possible)
2) Main luggage / duffel (support vehicle / hotel transfer)
+ Casual clothes
+ Toiletries
+ Laundry kit / quick-dry clothing
+ Extra shoes / sandals
+ Extra warm layer
+ Backup chargers
+ Copies of documents
+ Small medical kit
3) Keep valuables minimal
Vietnam is generally welcoming, but like any travel destination:
+ Keep valuables discreet
+ Do not leave important items loose on the bike
+ Use zipped pockets/bags
+ Follow guide advice in crowded markets and city stops
I. Arrival in Vietnam – First 24 Hours
1) After landing
+ Immigration
+ Baggage claim
+ SIM / eSIM setup (if needed)
+ Meet driver or guide at arranged point
+ Hotel check-in
+ Rest, hydrate, light meal
2) Jet lag management
Please do not underestimate jet lag before a riding tour.
For safer riding performance:
- + Sleep early if possible
- + Avoid heavy drinking on arrival night
- + Hydrate well
- + Eat lightly
- + Stretch before bed / in the morning
3) Pre-ride meeting (usually evening before Day 1 or morning of Day 1)
You will receive:
- + Route overview
- + Safety briefing
- + Bike allocation
- + Gear check
- + Riding formation explanation
- + Hand signals
- + Fuel / break / lunch routine
- + Emergency and communication procedures
J. Pre-Departure Ride Day Checklist (Before Leaving Hotel Each Morning)
Please complete this routine every day:
Rider check
- + Am I rested enough to ride safely?
- + Any pain / dizziness / stomach issue?
- + Hydrated?
- + Helmet strapped?
- + Gloves on?
- + Jacket/armor on?
- + Rain layer accessible?
- + Documents and phone packed?
- + Bike check (quick visual)
- + Brakes feel normal
- + Tires look okay
- + Lights / indicators working
- + Mirrors adjusted
- + Fuel level checked
- + No unusual leaks / damage
- + Luggage straps secure
If anything feels wrong, tell the guide before departure, not later on the road.
K. Riding Rules & Traffic Culture in Vietnam (Core Safety Section)
Vietnam road law includes key principles such as keeping to the right-hand side, riding in the correct lane/section, and complying with traffic signals/signs. The law also sets priority order of traffic signals (traffic police command > traffic lights > signs > markings, etc.).
1) Golden rules for riders on our tour
- + Ride predictably
- + Keep a safe following distance
- + Do not overtake unless it is clearly safe
- + Never overtake the lead guide unless instructed
- + Do not stop suddenly in blind corners
- + Use signals early
- + Slow down before villages, schools, markets, and intersections
- + Respect local road users (trucks, buses, farmers, children, animals)
2) Traffic culture – what surprises many first-time riders
In Vietnam, traffic often flows through negotiation and awareness rather than strict lane discipline in every situation. You may see:
- + Vehicles entering from side roads unexpectedly
- + Slow vehicles in your lane
- + Oncoming vehicles near center line on mountain roads
- + Horn use as communication (not always aggression)
- + Pedestrians / livestock on roads
- + Wet patches, sand, construction zones without much warning
3) Mobile phones while riding
Vietnamese law prohibits holding/using a mobile phone or electronic device while operating a vehicle.
Our rule: if you need phone/navigation/photo → pull over safely first.
L. Common Road Hazards in Vietnam (Practical Experience Section)
Please expect and prepare for:
- + Gravel in corners
- + Mud after rain
- + Diesel/oil patches
- + Potholes and broken edges
- + Roadworks without full barriers
- + Animals crossing (dogs, buffalo, cows, chickens)
- + Local buses/trucks taking wide lines
- + Fog/cloud in mountain passes
- + Strong sun + dehydration
- + Night riding visibility issues
Our recommendation
Avoid unnecessary night riding whenever possible.
If delays happen, ride slower and stay compact as a group.
M. Police Checkpoints, Roadside Stops & Communication
If stopped by traffic police
Stay calm, respectful, and cooperative.
* Dos:
- + Pull over safely
- + Remove helmet only if appropriate / instructed
- + Be polite and patient
- + Let the guide assist communication (if guide is present)
- + Present documents when requested
* Don’ts:
- + Argue aggressively
- + Ride away
- + Offer money informally
- + Sign documents you do not understand without translation/help (when possible)
Important: foreigners are subject to Vietnamese traffic penalties if they violate traffic laws.
N. Breakdown, Crash & Emergency Procedure (What To Do First)
1) Mechanical issue (no crash)
- + Signal and move to a safe roadside position
- + Turn on hazard/visibility signal if available
- + Inform guide immediately
- + Do not continue riding if brakes/steering/tires feel unsafe
2) Minor fall (no serious injury)
- + Move yourself to safety if possible
- + Turn off ignition
- + Do a quick self-check (head, shoulder, wrist, knee, ankle)
- + Inform guide
- + Do not “push through” pain if you may be injured
3) Crash with injury / traffic incident
Priority order:
- + Scene safety (avoid secondary collision)
- + Human safety (check breathing/bleeding)
- + Call guide / emergency support
- + Do not move seriously injured person unless immediate danger
- + Document situation when safe (photos, location)
4) Emergency contacts (to be provided by operator)
Please save these before Day 1:
+ Tour Leader / Guide:
+ Sweeper / Assistant Guide:
+ Operations Manager (24/7): +84 904 124 997
+ Mechanic / Support Truck:
+ Hospital (nearest route region):
+ Your family emergency contact:
O. Group Riding Etiquette (Makes the Tour Smooth for Everyone)
A great group ride is built on trust and consistency.
* Please do:
- + Be on time at departure
- + Refuel / toilet / coffee efficiently during stops
- + Tell the guide if you are tired or uncomfortable
- + Respect group pace
- + Help each other
- + Celebrate local culture respectfully
* Please do not:
- + Race
- + “Show off” on public roads
- + Split from the group without notice
- + Overtake blindly to catch up
- + Drink and ride
- + Pressure other riders to ride faster
P. Cultural Respect & Responsible Travel
We ride through real communities, not a closed track.
Please respect local people by:
- + Riding slowly through villages
- + Avoiding unnecessary loud revving
- + Asking before close-up photos of people (especially elderly/minorities)
- + Dressing appropriately at temples/pagodas
- + Supporting local family businesses respectfully
- + Not littering
A rider who shows respect will receive far warmer interactions everywhere in Vietnam.
Q. Final Pre-Trip Checklist (7 Days / 48 Hours / Departure Day)
7 days before departure:
- + Passport valid
- + Visa/e-visa approved (if required)
- + Insurance purchased and checked
- + License + IDP checked
- + Gear packed
- + Medical prescriptions packed
- + Emergency contacts shared with family
- + 48 hours before departure
- + Print travel docs
- + Download offline maps (optional)
- + Charge devices / power banks
- + Confirm airport transfer
- + Sleep well / hydrate
Departure day:
- + Carry key documents in cabin bag
- + Keep one change of clothes in carry-on
- + Keep riding gear essentials accessible if needed
- + Arrive calm and rested
R. Final Message to Riders
Vietnam rewards riders who come prepared, stay humble, and ride with awareness.
This tour is not about speed—it is about the journey: mountain air at sunrise, roadside coffee, village smiles, the sound of your engine on a winding pass, and the shared stories at the end of the day.
Prepare well, ride smart, and we will help you have an unforgettable experience.
We look forward to riding with you!
