1. Avoid Poor Currency Exchange Rates
One of the quickest ways to lose money when traveling is by getting stuck with bad currency exchange rates. Exchanging money at airports, hotels, or popular tourist spots often comes with unfavorable rates and hidden fees. Many travelers are caught off guard by the convenience of these options, only to realize later that they’ve lost a significant portion of their travel budget.
What to do instead
Exchange just enough money at the airport to cover immediate expenses like transportation, and then use local currency exchange shops for better rates. In Vietnam, you can easily find reputable shops by searching for “Đổi ngoại tệ” on Google Maps. This will save you money and give you more to spend on the amazing food, sights, and experiences Vietnam has to offer.
2. Watch Out for “Too Good to Be True” Deals
We've all experienced the lure of a deal that seems too good to pass up—only to be let down by the reality. Think of the vacuum that didn’t work as promised, or a flimsy zipper on a new bag that broke after one use. In Vietnam, the same can happen with travel deals. Cheap tours and accommodations may offer enticingly low prices, but they often come with hidden sacrifices like poor quality, overcrowded rooms, or minimal support.
What to do instead
When considering a tour or package, ask yourself these important questions:
What’s included in the price?
What’s the accommodation standard?
Is there 24/7 support available during your trip?
How large is the tour group, and how many people will share a room?
What is the baggage allowance?
By taking the time to look beyond the price tag, you'll avoid unpleasant surprises and ensure that your experience is smooth and enjoyable from start to finish.
3. Avoid Traveling During Vietnamese Public Holidays
Vietnam’s major public holidays, especially Tet (Lunar New Year) in February, can throw even the best-laid travel plans into chaos. Public transport can be extremely crowded or disrupted, flights become hard to book, and accommodation prices can skyrocket during these peak periods. If you’re not aware of the holiday schedule, you might find yourself stuck without transport or paying exorbitant rates.
What to do instead
You can find a full list of Vietnamese public holiday here. By avoiding public holidays, you'll score better deals on flights and accommodation, avoid the crazy crowds. Plus, you'll get to enjoy a more relaxed, less crowded experience at Vietnam’s top attractions.
4. Get Your Free Guide to Avoid Common Mistakes
Traveling to a new country can be overwhelming, especially when it’s your first time. There are many common mistakes travelers make that can lead to unnecessary expenses or logistical headaches. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!
Click [here] to receive your free guide on the 7 costly mistakes Aussies make on their first Vietnam trip. This handy resource will help you avoid the most common pitfalls and ensure that your trip is smooth and stress-free.
