Bringing a Weed Pen to Vietnam: Is Dead Serious!

Traveling to see the Golden Bridge and enjoying other experiences can be exciting, but it’s important to be aware of the laws and regulations of the country you’re visiting, especially if you’re a cannabis smoker.

You might be considering bringing your weed pen to Vietnam since the country is known to be a weed-friendly place. However, before you start packing for your trip, keep reading because we will provide you with all the information you need to know.

This includes details about the cannabis laws in Vietnam, the risks associated with bringing a weed pen into the country, and where you can obtain a new one upon your arrival, among other important considerations!

Can You Bring a Weed Pen to Vietnam?

No, you cannot bring a weed pen or any other cannabis-related products to Vietnam as cannabis is prohibited in the country. While the country has a relaxed attitude towards cannabis use, it is still illegal, and penalties can vary depending on the situation.

How To Sneak a Weed Pen to Vietnam?

We’ve warned you previously that it’s illegal to bring a weed pen to Vietnam. So, you really shouldn’t do it! But if you’re still thinking about it, you should be aware that some folks have mentioned that the airport has strict security measures.

They’ve also given some tips on how to try it without getting in trouble:

• Looks Like a Regular Vape: Get a weed pen that looks like a regular vaping pen. If it has a label that says “cannabis,” take it off!
  
  
• Carry-On Bag: Keep the weed pen in your carry-on bag the whole time.
  
  
• Pack Smart: Take the battery out of your weed pen and put both parts in different parts of your carry-on bag. You can even hide the weed pen in a makeup bag, it usually works!

Even with this information at your disposal, don’t think about smuggling your weed pen to Vietnam; even if you’re a tourist, you will end up in huge trouble and possibly in life imprisonment. It’s better to leave your weed pen at home and get a new one in Vietnam.

How Hard is it to Get Weed in Vietnam?

Getting cannabis or a weed pen to Vietnam is not overly difficult, especially in areas with expat communities or heavy tourism. However, it’s important to note that the availability of certain cannabis products may vary depending on your location within the country:

1. Expatriate Communities: In areas with a significant expat community such as Saigon, Da Nang, and Hanoi, it’s relatively easy to find cannabis. You can connect with fellow expats who are familiar with the local cannabis scene and can introduce you to sources.
   
   
2. Touristic Areas: In tourist-heavy areas, you may encounter people, often taxi drivers, trying to sell cannabis to tourists. However, be cautious, as some of them might be scammers or even collaborate with the police.
   
   
3. Street Dealers: Buying from street dealers is generally not advised due to the risk of scams and potential involvement with the police. Street dealers may offer low-quality cannabis, and the quantity you receive might not match what you paid for.

While it’s relatively easy to find cannabis in Vietnam, it’s crucial to exercise caution and discretion. Connecting with expat communities can provide you with more reliable sources, so it’s advisable to avoid street dealers!

What About the Quality of the Weed?

The quality of cannabis in Vietnam can be somewhat inconsistent. In areas with a thriving expat community, you’re more likely to find higher-quality weed. However, in tourist-heavy locations, the quality may be more questionable.

For those seeking premium indoor-grown strains, they are available but come at a higher cost, around 500,000 VND (approximately $21 USD) for a single gram. These options are pricier, similar to what you might find in Europe! It’s advisable to inquire within expat communities or consult trusted sources for the best quality options.

Penalties for Getting Caught With Weed in Vietnam

The repercussions of being found with cannabis in Vietnam may fluctuate depending on the quantity of cannabis in your possession, your prior criminal history, and additional considerations. Here’s a breakdown of the potential penalties:

Administrative Penalties: These penalties apply to individuals caught with marijuana for personal use. These individuals will face a warning or a fine ranging from 1 million VND to 2 million VND. Additionally, there are provisions for the confiscation of evidence and means of violation.

Criminal Penalties: For more severe cases or those involving larger quantities, criminal penalties may apply. The penalties vary depending on the type of charge for which you are found guilty, the possible scenarios are as follows:

• Illegal Possession of Narcotics: As stipulated in Article 249 of the 2015 Penal Code, those found guilty of this offense may face imprisonment with sentences ranging from a minimum of 1 year to a maximum of 20 years, or even life imprisonment, accompanied by fines ranging between 5 million VND and 500 million VND, which is approximately equivalent to $220 USD to $22,000 USD.
  
  
• Illegal Trading of Narcotics: Those found guilty of this offense may face imprisonment for a minimum of 2 years up to a maximum of 20 years, a life sentence, or even the death penalty in the most extreme cases. Additionally, substantial fines are imposed, with amounts varying between 5 million Vietnamese Dong (VND) to 500 million VND, which is approximately equivalent to 219 USD to 21,913 USD.
  
  
• Organizing the Illegal Use of Narcotics: Offenders can face imprisonment, with sentences ranging from one year to life imprisonment. Additionally, fines associated with this crime can vary significantly, ranging from 50 million VND to 500 million VND, which is approximately 2,200 USD to 22,000 USD.

Keep in mind that penalties are very severe and vary based on several factors, and foreign offenders may face deportation depending on the gravity of the violation!

What Steps to Take When You’re Caught?

After reading about the legal problems and heavy penalties, it is normal to feel scared; however, locals indicate that the police do not bother tourists for using a weed pen. They are usually quite corrupt, and maybe giving them some money will help you avoid the problem.

However, if that approach doesn’t work, here are some tips to follow:

1. Stay Calm: If you are confronted by law enforcement, it’s crucial to remain calm and respectful. Cooperate with their instructions and avoid any confrontational behavior.
   
   
2. Legal Representation: If you are detained or charged, consider seeking legal representation immediately. Your best option would be a local attorney familiar with Vietnamese drug laws.
   
   
3. Comply with Legal Process: If you are charged, it’s essential to comply with the legal process, attend any required court hearings, and follow your attorney’s guidance.

Always seek professional legal advice in your specific situation, and do your best to avoid any involvement with illegal substances while in Vietnam to ensure your safety and avoid legal trouble.

Conclusion:

While Vietnam may appear to be a weed-friendly country, it is important to note that cannabis is illegal in Vietnam, and possession of it can result in severe penalties, including the death sentence!

Travelers often report variable attitudes towards recreational cannabis use by authorities, so it is crucial to exercise caution and use common sense. In general, bringing a weed pen to Vietnam is not recommended, it’s a better option to find and consume cannabis in Vietnam, but it is important to be aware of the laws and potential risks involved.