Drinking tap water is not recommended in Vietnam. Bottled water is affordable and readily available, making it a safer choice for hydration. When purchasing bottled water, always check that the seal is intact and the water appears clear, as there have been instances where bottles were refilled with tap water, especially in places like Ha Long Bay.

While tap water in major cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City is chlorinated and considered safe for brushing teeth, it’s best to avoid using it for drinking in rural areas where water treatment processes are less reliable. Additionally, during flooding, raw sewage can mix with water sources, so extra caution is required. To stay safe, it’s advisable to avoid drinks with ice or anything that might have been diluted with potentially contaminated water.

Locally produced soft drinks are a popular option in Vietnam and are available nearly everywhere. These beverages tend to be extremely sweet, but they are cheap and safe to drink, provided the bottle or carton is sealed correctly. International brands like Coca-Cola, Sprite, and Fanta dominate the market and are available even in remote locations. Interestingly, canned drinks are typically more expensive than their bottled counterparts, whether it’s a soft drink or beer—likely due to the preference for drinking from glass bottles.

For a more refreshing alternative, fresh coconut juice is a popular thirst-quencher, though it’s mostly found in the south. You can also enjoy freshly squeezed juices like orange and lime, but be sure to confirm that they haven’t been diluted with tap water. Sugar-cane juice (mia da) is a local favorite, especially because it’s freshly pressed right in front of you, making it a safer and delicious choice. Additionally, pasteurized milk, produced by Vinamilk, is now widely available in most towns and cities.