What should I bring for a lightweight motorcycle trip across Vietnam?

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November can be cold in the mountains of the north, so be prepared for cold nights if you are heading towards Sapa, BaBe and such.

Bringing and wearing full leathers is a good idea if you plan on getting big bikes and motoring on the major highways, Vietnamese drivers are a bit selfish and pushy.

Make sure your current driver's license has a motorcycle endors*m*nt and make sure AAA notes that on your Int'l Drivers Permit.

Bringing something nicer to wear is always a good idea, as Asians put value in appearance. And while they won't kick you out for looking like an Hells Angel, they will appreciate your dressing "polite".

Bring more US cash and no Vietnamese Dong. You will get a better rate of exchange at the airport than in the USA. And having a few hundred US tucked away for emergencies is always good. Be sure all cash you bring is new style notes in good condition.

Bring a check card (Visa or MC debit card) to use in ATM for cash. Credit Cards will charge you interest from the moment you get the cash, debit cards simply deduct it from your account. Debit cards from most American banks carry the same protections against theft, fraud, etc as credit cards do. And if you are still really paranoid about card fraud, you can open a new checking account with check card, then through online banking move small quantities over from your main account as you need it.

Robberies do happen, but often due to stupidity on the travelers part, ie: leaving cash in your hostel room, getting a bit too drunk, flashing too much wealth in bars or markets. Common sense goes a long way, same as it does when visiting a major US city.

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