Photo: MiStay

A trip to a foreign country definitely requires you to bring along some certain documents such as your passport, identity card, drivers’ license, visa or visa exemption certificate, etc. In most countries like Vietnam, you even have to present to local police any form of identification regularly while walking around. 

Therefore, no one ever wants to lose these lifeline papers and figure out unfamiliar consular procedures by themselves. Here are a few tips on keeping your travel documents safe and secure when traveling to Vietnam.

Tip 1: Make hard copies and soft copies of your travel documents

With the prevalence of the Internet and technology, it is easier and easier for us to make some extra copies of our important documents, maybe they cannot replace the original versions entirely but in case of losing, then the process of re-issuance at authorities will be more simple and quicker.

You only need to scan those papers and make sure to store them on secure online document storage servers such as Google Drive or even Facebook Messenger! Besides, some establishments in Vietnam can allow you to use digital documents to register, which is pretty convenient and accessible.

As for physical copies, it is best to keep one in your suitcase and leave one back in your home country. When transiting to Vietnam, close or lock your suitcase tightly to avoid losing or getting robbed.

Source: Collected

Tip 2: Separate documents in different storages

Here’s an old saying “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket”, which means you want to have another back-up when one document is lost. 

It is advised that you distribute interchangeable papers into separate luggage. For example, you can keep the passport in your backpack and the ID card in your wallet since passports and ID cards can partially replace each other in Vietnam.

Tip 3: Store documents in plastic bags/file folders/clear sheets

Believe it or not, sometimes you think one document goes missing simply because it is under piles and piles of messy papers, or you accidentally drop it when going through your exploded packback. Then, keeping them organized with plastic bags/file folders/clear sheets is a perfect solution for you. 

Walking in an unexpected rain or being careless to spill coffee onto your documents will no longer bother you since your travel vitality is well preserved by plastic bags. 

Source: Collected

Tip 4: Use tracking devices to secure your documents 

A little tracker can bring peace of mind to you by tracking and giving the exact location where your belongings are present 24/7. All you need to do is attach the device to your luggage and install an application to ensure its safety during the trip. 

Certain GPS trackers offer an additional feature of displaying travel history, allowing users to view the routes and past locations the tracker has visited. 

Source: Collected

Tip 5: Be mindful in crowded places

It is known that petty crimes such as pickpocketing or snatching do happen in Vietnam, especially at crowded tourist attractions, markets and public transportation, therefore visitors should be aware of this hazard and keep their bags close to them at any moment. 

Foreigners can also invest in a pouch to wear under their clothing. It can securely hold their passport, extra cash, and cards, reducing the risk of theft.

Tip 6: Keep emergency contacts available

What would you do if your travel documents were lost or stolen in Vietnam? Don’t panic! It is important to report the problem to the person in charge, and in this case, you should have the addresses and numbers of your home country’s embassy or consulate ready. They will guide you step by step how to handle and proceed your trip in Vietnam without travel papers. 

You can also share your travel itinerary to your Vietnamese trusted friends and store their contacts. Since they are locals, they can provide assistance in case of an emergency.

That’s it! We hope you can take away something useful from this article. Next time, make sure to apply these practical tips when you travel to Vietnam or any foreign country for a hassle-free trip.