Petrol in Vietnam – All You Need to Know

Updated 11/02/2025

If you’re planning a motorbike trip in Vietnam, it’s important to be prepared. One of the things you need to know about is petrol in Vietnam. This includes finding petrol stations, the cost of petrol, and how to fill up your motorbike. This post will provide all the information you need to know about petrol in Vietnam so you can have a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Types of Petrol

Alright, so you’re ready to hit the road and explore Vietnam on two wheels. Awesome! But before you rev that engine, let’s talk about the fuel that powers your adventure: petrol.

In Vietnam, you’ll mainly find two types of petrol:

RON 92: This is your go-to fuel for most rental motorbikes. It’s like regular unleaded back home.
RON 95: This is a higher-octane fuel, but you probably won’t need it for your rental bike. It’s more expensive and usually only necessary for high-performance bikes.

Stick with RON 92 for your rental bike. It’s the perfect match for most rental bikes in Vietnam. You might also see something called E5 RON 92. This is a petrol blend with a bit of ethanol mixed in and it is more of a biofuel. It’s becoming more common and is fine for most bikes.

Octane Ratings

Think of octane rating like the strength of the fuel. Higher octane ratings (like RON 95) are more resistant to knocking, which is important for high-performance engines. But for your average rental bike, RON 92 is all you need.

So, there you have it! Fueling your Vietnamese adventure is pretty straightforward. Just remember to stick with RON 92 for your rental bike and you’re good to go.

Finding Fuel

So, you’re cruising through Vietnam on your trusty motorbike, wind in your hair, sun on your face… but wait, what’s that light flashing on your dashboard? Uh oh, looks like you’re running low on petrol! No worries, mate. Finding a petrol station in Vietnam is easier than navigating a roundabout in Hanoi during rush hour (almost!).

City Slickin' vs. Country Cruisin'

In Vietnam’s bustling cities, petrol stations are as common as pho stalls. You’ll spot them on practically every corner, especially along major roads. Just look for those brightly lit signs with familiar names like Petrolimex (more on them in a bit).
But as you venture off the beaten path into the serene countryside, petrol stations become a bit more elusive. Don’t worry, you won’t have to resort to siphoning fuel from a friendly water buffalo (though that’d make a great story!). Just keep an eye out for those telltale signs and maybe ask a local if you’re unsure.

Petrol Powerhouses: The Big Brands

While you might stumble upon some independent petrol stations, these are the big names you’ll encounter most often:

Petrolimex: The undisputed king of petrol in Vietnam. These guys are everywhere, with their iconic blue and yellow logo. They’re government-owned, so they’re generally reliable and well-maintained. Think of them as the Starbucks of petrol stations in Vietnam.

PVOil: Another major player, though not as widespread as Petrolimex. Their stations often have a more modern vibe, with brighter colors and snazzier designs.

Tech to the Rescue: Apps and Maps

In this digital age, finding a petrol station is as easy as pie (or should we say, as easy as ordering a banh mi on your phone!). Here are some handy tools to help you locate fuel stops:

Google Maps: Your trusty companion for all things navigation. Just type in “petrol station” or “gas station” (or “tram xang” or “cay xang” in Vietnamese if you’re feeling adventurous) and voila! Google Maps will point you in the right direction.

Offline Maps: Heading off the grid? No problem! Download offline maps like Maps.me or OsmAnd to ensure you can always find a petrol station, even without internet access.

Petrolimex App: Yep, Petrolimex even has its own app (and a map on their website) to help you locate their stations across the country. Talk about dedication!

Remote Riding: Fueling Strategies

When you’re exploring those remote corners of Vietnam, where the roads are less traveled and the scenery is breathtaking, remember this golden rule: It is better to be looking at it, than for it!

Don’t wait until your fuel gauge is flirting with the lowside of empty. If you see a petrol station, top up your tank, even if you think you have enough. You never know when the next one might appear.

Opening Hours: Fuel Up, Anytime!

The good news is that most petrol stations in Vietnam’s cities and along major highways are open 24/7. So, whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, you can fuel up whenever it suits you.

In rural areas, petrol stations might have more limited hours, so it’s best to fill up early in the day to avoid getting stranded. However, if you ask around, you can often find a local re-seller who has fuel, like in the pic above.

Fuel Prices

Embarking on a motorbike journey through Vietnam is an exhilarating experience, but it’s essential to consider the practical aspects of your trip, including fuel costs. Understanding the price of petrol in Vietnam will help you budget effectively and plan your itinerary accordingly.

Current Petrol Prices

As of January 25th, 2025, the average price of petrol in Vietnam ranges from 20,000 to 22,000 Vietnamese Dong (VND) per litre. This translates to approximately 0.78 to 0.87 USD per litre.

Please note that prices do fluctuate due to global oil market trends and local economic factors.

Payment Methods

When it comes to paying for petrol in Vietnam, cash remains the most widely accepted method. While some larger petrol stations, particularly in urban areas, may accept credit or debit cards, it’s advisable to have sufficient cash on hand to ensure a smooth fueling experience.

It’s also a good practice to have smaller denominations of Vietnamese Dong ready. This will facilitate easier transactions and avoid potential inconveniences.

Planning Your Fuel Budget

To estimate your fuel costs for your motorbike trip in Vietnam, consider the following factors:

Fuel Efficiency: The efficiency of your rental motorbike will significantly impact your overall fuel consumption.

Distance to Be Covered: The total distance of your journey will determine the amount of fuel you’ll need.

Road Conditions: The type of roads you’ll be traversing, whether they are highways, mountain roads, or city streets, will affect your fuel consumption.

By carefully considering these factors, you can create a realistic fuel budget for your motorbike adventure in Vietnam.

Useful Phrases for Petrol Stops

Even if your Vietnamese vocabulary is limited to “xin chào” (hello) and “cảm ơn” (thank you), don’t worry! A few simple phrases and gestures can go a long way in ensuring a smooth and efficient fuel-up experience.

Here’s a handy cheat sheet to keep in your back pocket (or maybe taped to your fuel tank!):

Handy Cheat Sheet

Phrase	Meaning	Pron Tip (approx)	Notes
Xăng	Petrol	“sung”	The general term for petrol.
Đầy bình	Full tank	“day bing”	The go-to phrase to fill up.
Bao nhiêu?	How much?	b-ow neo	You will be asked this by the attendant.
[Amount] nghìn	[Amount] thousand (VND)	“[Amount] ngin”	E.g. “50 nghin” (fifty thousand VND)
Loại xăng gì?	What type of petrol?	“lo-eye sung zee?”	You may get asked this.
RON 92	RON 92	“RON chin high”	The most common type of fuel for rentals.
RON 95	RON 95	“RON chin nam”	For higher performance bikes (less common in rentals)
Trạm xăng	Petrol Station	“cham Sang”	Handy for asking directions.
Ở đâu?	Where?	“Uh Doh?”	Use this if you need help finding a petrol station.
Cảm ơn (cám ơn)	Thank you	“cam earn”	Nice to be polite!

Pronunciation Tips:

Vietnamese is a tonal language, so the tone of your voice can change the meaning of a word. Don’t worry too much about getting the tones perfect, but try to listen to native speakers pronounce these phrases if you can (YouTube is your friend!).
Combine phrases with gestures for extra clarity. For example, point to your fuel tank and say “đầy bình” for a full tank.
Most importantly, don’t be afraid to try! Even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect, people will usually understand what you mean in the context of a petrol station.

With these phrases in your arsenal, you’ll be well-equipped to communicate your fuel needs effectively. And hey, even if you fumble a bit, a smile and a friendly attitude can go a long way!

How to Fill Up

So you’re cruising the scenic highways of Vietnam on your motorbike, wind whipping through your hair, the sun on your face… but suddenly, you notice that fuel gauge creeping towards “E.” Don’t worry, filling up your motorbike in Vietnam is a breeze! Just follow this simple guide, and you’ll be back on the road in no time.

Arriving at the Station

As you pull into the petrol station, be mindful of other vehicles and motorbikes. Vietnamese traffic can be a bit lively, so it’s always best to err on the side of caution. Find an available pump and position your bike so the fuel cap is easily accessible. And remember the golden rule: turn off your engine before you start fueling. Safety first, always!

Choosing the Right Fuel

For most rental motorbikes in Vietnam, RON 92 is the way to go. It’s like the regular unleaded fuel back home. You might see RON 95 as well, but that’s usually for higher-performance bikes and is a bit more expensive. Unless your rental agreement specifically says to use RON 95, stick with RON 92.

Talking the Talk (or Gesturing!)

Now for the fun part: communicating with the attendant. Don’t worry if your Vietnamese is a bit rusty (or non-existent!). A few simple phrases and gestures will do the trick.

“Đầy bình” (day bing): This means “full tank” and is the most useful phrase to know.
Hand gestures: If you’re not confident with your pronunciation, simply point to your fuel tank and make a circular motion with your finger. This universally means “fill it up!”

Specific amount: If you don’t want a full tank, you can try saying the amount in Vietnamese Dong (VND). For example, “50 nghìn” (pronounced “nam muoi ngin”) means 50,000 VND.

Filling 'Er Up

In Vietnam, the attendant usually handles the actual fueling process. They’ll insert the nozzle, fill the tank, and stop when it’s full. You generally don’t need to touch a thing. Just sit back, relax, and admire the efficiency.

Paying the Piper

Once the tank is full, the attendant will tell you the amount due. Cash is king in Vietnam, so be prepared to pay in Vietnamese Dong (VND). It’s always a good idea to have smaller denominations on hand to make things easier.

Safety First!

Before you zoom off, remember these crucial safety points:

No smoking: This should go without saying, but absolutely no smoking near the petrol pumps.

Engine off: Make sure your engine is turned off throughout the entire fueling process.

Be aware: Pay attention to your surroundings and follow the attendant’s instructions.

That’s it! Fueling up in Vietnam is as easy as riding a motorbike down a smooth, open road (well, almost!). With these simple steps, you’ll be ready to conquer those Vietnamese highways and byways with a full tank and a happy motorbike.

Tips for Efficiency and Troubleshooting

As you explore the country’s stunning landscapes and vibrant cities, you’ll want to ensure your trusty steed is well-fueled and running smoothly. Here are a few tips for filling your bike and managing fuel consumption, along with addressing some potential challenges like running out of petrol and the practicality of carrying jerry cans.

Check your oil levels

Before you hit the road, take a moment to check your engine oil level. Engine oil plays a vital role in lubricating the moving parts of your engine, reducing friction and preventing wear. Low oil levels can lead to serious engine damage, so it’s worth the extra minute to check this essential fluid.

Most motorbikes have a dipstick for checking the oil level. Simply pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and check the level against the markings on the dipstick. If the oil level is low, top it up with the correct type of engine oil. You can find engine oil at petrol stations, motorbike repair shops, or even some markets.

We check these levels and others every service so make sure you come in to us regularly.

Fuel Efficiency Tips

Getting the most out of your fuel not only saves you money but also extends your range, especially important when exploring remote areas. Here are some tips for maximizing fuel efficiency:

Smooth and Steady: Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Ride smoothly and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible.

Gear Up Wisely: Shift gears appropriately to match your speed and terrain. Avoid lugging the engine in a high gear or revving it unnecessarily in a low gear.

Anticipate Traffic: Look ahead and anticipate traffic flow. This allows you to brake and accelerate smoothly, reducing fuel consumption.

Minimize Idling: Turn off your engine whenever you’re stopped for more than a few seconds.

Check Tire Pressure: Proper tire pressure reduces rolling resistance and improves fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly.

Clean Air Filter: A dirty air filter restricts airflow to the engine, reducing performance and fuel efficiency. Clean or replace your air filter as recommended by the manufacturer.

Regular Oil Changes: Fresh oil reduces friction in the engine, improving fuel efficiency. Change your oil according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

How to Handle Running Out of Petrol: In a Remote Area

While it’s always best to avoid running out of petrol, it’s good to be prepared for the worst. Here’s what to do if you find yourself stranded in a remote area:

Stay Calm and Assess: Don’t panic. Take a deep breath and assess your situation. Look for landmarks, signs, or use a map app (if you have service) to determine your location.

Try Easy Solutions: Look for nearby houses, villages, or petrol stations. If you’re close enough, walking might be an option.

Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to ask locals for help. They might be able to direct you to a petrol station or offer you some fuel from their own supply.

Use Your Phone (If Possible): If you have cell phone reception, call your rental company or a friend for assistance. They might be able to arrange for someone to bring you fuel or provide other help.

Consider Alternative Fuel Sources: In rare cases, you might find locals selling petrol in bottles along the roadside. This is a last resort, but it’s an option if you’re truly stranded.