1. What is independent travel in Vietnam and what is the current trend?

Independent travel in Vietnam is a form of travel in which you proactively plan everything from destination, transportation, accommodation to dining and entertainment schedule. Not depending on package tours, this form offers maximum flexibility, while helping you save costs and freely experience according to your personal preferences.

The trend of independent cross-country travel is becoming more and more popular, especially among young people and those who love deep experiences. In 2025, when booking rooms, finding routes or hunting for deals becomes easier thanks to technology and independent travel apps , exploring the country on your own is no longer too difficult. You don't need to be a veteran backpacker, just enough determination and a clear plan to start your own cross-country journey.

What's fun about independent travel in Vietnam?

2. Conditions for independent cross-Vietnam travel – Documents, costs, means of transport

A long trip across the country requires careful preparation, you should refer to more tips for independent travel . First of all, you need to bring all personal documents such as citizen identification, driver's license if you drive, vehicle registration, bank card and some spare cash. In many remote areas, swiping cards or transferring money is still limited.

The cost of independent travel to Vietnam is not fixed but varies depending on the way you choose to travel. If you ride a motorbike, stay in a dormitory, eat simple meals and avoid expensive services, you can travel across Vietnam for about 10 to 12 million VND. If you choose a more comfortable form, combining air travel, high-quality buses and staying in 2 to 3-star hotels, you should budget about 15 to 20 million VND. For those who want to combine relaxation, experience high-class cuisine and participate in special tours, the necessary budget can be up to 30 million VND.

There are many means of transportation. Motorbikes offer a more authentic experience and a sense of freedom. Sleeper buses are suitable for long distances and help you save energy. Trains are a great option if you want to travel and enjoy the scenery along the way. Many people also choose to fly some distances and then rent a motorbike locally to continue their journey.

Administrative map of 34 provinces and cities of Vietnam after merger in 2025

3. Experience of independent travel in Vietnam - Itinerary and featured destinations

3.1. Popular cross-Vietnam travel itineraries, beautiful routes

Top beautiful roads in Vietnam

Vietnam stretches from North to South, with more than three thousand kilometers of land and countless unique landscapes and cultures. Therefore, planning a reasonable itinerary is an important factor. Many people choose the journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City along National Highway 1A, passing through provinces such as Ninh Binh , Hue , Da Nang , Quy Nhon , Nha Trang , Da Lat and ending in the West or Phu Quoc Island .

Some other routes are also very popular. The coastal route from Quang Ninh to Binh Thuan offers a diverse sea tourism experience with beautiful beaches and fresh seafood. The Central Highlands route goes through Kon Tum, Pleiku , Buon Ma Thuot to Da Lat for those who love mountains and cool air.

Each route should be divided into small stages so that you have time to rest, experience deeply and not be overloaded. Pay attention to the weather in each region to choose the right time to go. For example, the Northwest should go in the fall or flower season, while the Central region should avoid the rainy and stormy season.

3.2. Destinations not to be missed when traveling across Vietnam on your own

Suggested destinations for independent travel in Vietnam

In the North, Hanoi is a suitable starting point with many travel options. From here, you can go to Sapa to see the terraced fields, Ha Giang to conquer Ma Pi Leng Pass or Moc Chau to welcome the season of canola flowers and plum flowers. The Red River Delta region such as Ninh Binh is also worth visiting with its caves, ancient pagodas and peaceful landscapes.

The Central region is the cultural heart of the country. You should not miss Hue with its ancient tombs, Hoi An with its nostalgic beauty, and modern, youthful Da Nang. Quang Binh with Phong Nha – Ke Bang or Son Doong is also an attractive choice if you want to explore the majestic nature.

In the South, the journey becomes softer with cool Da Lat, bustling Ho Chi Minh City and peaceful Can Tho, full of Western character. If you have time, Phu Quoc is the ideal place to end the trip with blue sea, white sand and memorable seafood meals.

3.3. Suitable means of transport and accommodation for long trips

Transportation for independent travel

For long trips, you should combine multiple means of transport to avoid fatigue and save time. You can use a motorbike for short trips with beautiful scenery or easy stops. Buses, trains or planes are suitable for long trips between regions.

Accommodation should be booked in advance through reputable platforms. You can choose a hostel or homestay if you want to save money and connect with locals. If you travel in a large group, renting a villa or an entire apartment will be more cost-effective. Some famous places such as Hoi An, Da Lat, Ninh Binh have many beautiful and cheap accommodations if you book early.

4. Suggestions for independent travel in Vietnam with Tatinta

Traveling independently doesn’t mean you have to do everything yourself. If you want to reduce the stress of planning but still have the freedom to travel, you can look for a flexible travel experience support unit.

Tatinta offers sample itineraries by region, ticket combos for popular attractions, local motorbike rentals, and connections with local guides. You’re still on your own, but with a logistics system to make things easier.

Many young people have chosen to combine self-sufficiency and flexible support like this to make their cross-Vietnam journey both economical, effective, and comfortable to experience.

5. Personalized experience – every trip is a unique story

The biggest attraction of independent travel is the uniqueness of each journey. Some people travel to relax, some to explore, some just to record memorable moments of youth. There is no general formula for all, nor is there any limit to your trip.

You can start your journey alone with a backpack and a phone in hand. Along the way, you will meet hundreds of people just like you – living their own journeys to the fullest. It is where strange lands become memories, strangers become companions, and you become a more experienced version of yourself.