Motorcycle — Freedom & Chaos
Vietnam on a motorcycle — there is no more intense way to experience this country. And at the same time, no more dangerous. 45 million motorcycles flood the streets, and the traffic follows no recognizable rules. Nevertheless, the motorcycle is the most popular means of transport for backpackers.
Renting
| Type | Price/Day | For Whom |
|---|---|---|
| Automatic scooter (Honda Air Blade, Yamaha Nozza) | 100,000–200,000 VND (4–8€) | City rides, short trips |
| Semi-automatic (Honda Win, Wave) | 150,000–250,000 VND (6–10€) | Long distances, Ha Giang Loop |
| Buy (used Honda Win) | 5–10 million VND (185–370€) | Weeks/months trip, resale at the end |
License & Insurance
- International Driving License: Theoretically mandatory for scooters over 50cc (almost all). Vietnam has recognized the international driving license since 2015 — but ONLY the version applied for at ADAC/ÖAMTC/TCS and based on a Vietnamese translation.
- Travel Insurance: Most travel insurances only pay for motorcycle accidents if you have a valid license. No license = no coverage. This can become life-changingly expensive.
- Police Checks: Rare for tourists, but they do exist. Fine without a license: 800,000–1,200,000 VND (30–45€).
Survival Rules
- ALWAYS wear a helmet. Always. Even if half of the Vietnamese don't.
- Drive slowly. 30–40 km/h in the city, 50–60 km/h in the countryside. Speed is the number 1 killer.
- Drive on the right, overtake on the left. Theoretically. In practice, everyone overtakes everywhere.
- Horn = "I'm here". The horn is not an aggression tool, but a courtesy. Honking means: "Attention, I'm next to you."
- Don't drive at night. Many motorcycles drive without lights, potholes are invisible, drunk drivers are common.
- Rain = Take a break. Vietnamese roads become slippery like soap when it rains. Wait under a canopy until it stops.
Achtung
Vietnam has one of the highest traffic accident rates in the world. Over 10,000 deaths per year, most on motorcycles. If you're not an experienced motorcyclist, book an "Easy Rider" — a local driver/guide who takes you on his motorcycle (30–50€/day, including guide knowledge). Safer, more informative, and you can enjoy the scenery.
