🏍️Renting a Motorbike in Vietnam

Renting a motorbike is one of the best ways to explore Vietnam. It gives you total freedom to discover countryside roads, small villages, rice fields, and scenic mountain routes at your own pace.

Renting:

Legally, you need a valid motorcycle license plus an International Driving Permit to ride in Vietnam. Many rental shops don’t ask for it, but having the correct documents is important in case of police checks or accidents. Travel insurance that covers motorbike riding is highly recommended as well. We also have our international driver permit always digital on our phones.

Rental prices are affordable: scooters usually cost around 7–10 € (250k VND/Day), while manual motorbikes are around 15–20 € per day. Long-term rentals are often cheaper if you negotiate. Try to leave cash as a deposit instead of your passport, whenever possible.

Buying:

Buying a motorbike in Vietnam is a great option (and really easy) if you're traveling longer and want full freedom. Expect to pay $200–$700, depending on the type and condition. Reliable brands like Honda and Yamaha are your safest bet - parts and repairs are cheap and available everywhere.

The best places to buy are major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang. You can buy from other travelers via Facebook Marketplace (often cheaper) or from motorbike shops (slightly more expensive but sometimes with short warranty).

Make sure you get the blue registration card and check that the plate matches. Test the bike properly: cold start, brakes, lights, tires, engine sound, and take a 10–15 minute ride. Budget a little extra for an oil change or small repairs.

At the end of your trip, you can resell the bike and usually lose only a little bit of money or none at all.

Important: An international driving permit (1968 convention) is technically required, and always wear a proper helmet.

For short trips, renting is often easier - but for slow travel, buying can be totally worth it.

Notes:

Before riding off, always check the bike carefully: brakes, lights, tires, horn, mirrors, and fuel level. Take photos or a short video of the bike to avoid problems later. Make sure you get a helmet and ask for the bike’s registration (or a copy). There are often helmet for kids - just ask!

Traffic in Vietnam can feel chaotic, especially in big cities. Drive defensively, stay calm, and go with the flow. If you’re not confident, start riding outside city centers or choose quieter rural areas. Helmets are mandatory, and filling up the tank early is a good idea, especially in remote regions.

There are always little roadside shops where you can fill up your tank for around 20k VND per liter.

If you don’t want to ride yourself, consider an Easy Rider or Grab bike (a local driver who rides you), or rent a motorbike only for short day trips while using buses or trains between cities.

Motorbiking in Vietnam is an unforgettable experience - adventurous, flexible, and deeply connected to local life. Just ride responsibly and enjoy the journey.