There are few better ways to access all the nooks and crannies of South East Asia, than on the back of a motorbike. Of course, if you decide to check out one of the most beautiful regions in the world on a motorcycle, you should probably also know that you’re taking your life into your hands at literally every turn. Across Asia, motorcycle deaths actually account for about a third of traffic fatalities. In some countries, like Cambodia, that number jumps as high as 67 percent. The region may be accessible on motorbike, but thanks to corrupt and ineffective police, nonexistent safety regulations, and pervasive drunk driving, the roads of South East Asia are positively treacherous. That doesn’t mean it can’t be done though. Here are some do’s and don’ts when considering traversing SE Asia on the back of a motorcycle.
1. DON’T Worry About Getting a License
Only about 25 percent of the country actually has some documentation. One local told reporters this was due to the fact that police in the area are so corrupt, they’ll find a way to “fine” you regardless of whether you’ve got a license or not.
2. DON’T Count on the Locals to Observe the Rules of the Road
One survey found that 70 percent of motorists in the region didn’t understand the concept of a stop sign.
3. DO Balk at the Amount of Money Cambodia Spent on Road Crashes in 2014
$337 million.
4. DON’T Count on a User’s Manual
Most people who will sell you a motorcycle won’t bother to instruct you on its use, unless you specifically ask.
5. DON’T Count on an Automatic Motorbike Either
Manual transmission motorcycles are still pretty common.
6. DON’T Rent, Buy
In Southeast Asia, a motorcycle won’t cost you more than $300 (and it’s even cheaper if you buy from another backpacker at the end of their journey). The fact is no matter how much you spend, no bike you can buy will stay fixed for terribly long. You should absolutely test drive the thing before you buy it outright, but nothing you can afford will be in mint condition.
7. DO Expect to Stop and Get Your Bike Repaired
Your motorcycle will break down. Deal with it.
8. DO Buy a Really Good Helmet
Maybe some elbow pads too if you’re extra cautious.
9. DO Make Sure That You’ve Got Your Motorcycle’s Blue Card Registration
If you get pulled over by police, this is a must.
10. DO Dress For Wet and Cold Weather
In areas like north Vietnam, it’s often rainy. It’s also freezing when you ride through the mountains. As a result, you’ll need lots of layered clothing, including ponchos.
11. DO Buy Some Means of Staying In Touch With Civilization
Just in case something does go wrong, make sure you buy a Vietnamese SIM card for your cell phone before you head out. This will ensure that you can always call out in the event of an emergency.
12. DO Bring Some Means of GPS
The road signs will be in another language, so plan ahead.
13. DO Limit the Time You Spend on Your Bike
Max out at about six hours a day on your bike. Beyond that, it just becomes work.
14. DO Wear Long Sleeves and Long Pants at All Times
No matter how hot it gets, you’ll be thankful for the extra padding should you hit the pavement.
15. DO Be Careful Where You Park Your Bike
Not so much because of theft, but because it might get snapped up by irritated police.
16. DON’T Ever Hand Over Your Passport or Blue Card to Police
In order to get either back, they’ll fine the crap out of you.
17. DO Consider Carrying Two Wallets
One that you hand over to police (with some bribe money included), and one that you keep secret that contains all your real money and your important documents.
18. DO Remember In Some Countries It’s Illegal For Foreigners to Drive Motorcycles
Most of the time police don’t care, but you will be technically breaking the law.
19. Do Expect Incredible Charity From the Locals
Wherever you are in South East Asia, the people are renowned for their hospitality. There are numerous reports of backpackers being invited into locals’ homes for meals and celebrations. So, just make sure you keep your eyes open and always be polite.
20. DO Bring a Translating Dictionary of Some Kind
Don’t expect everyone to speak English. That’s just ignorant.
21. DO Check Your Speed in the Cities
They’re always crowded and dangerous and you should be cautious.
22. DO Remember That the Bigger Vehicle Always Has the Right of Way
If you don’t follow that one, you’ll learn what it’s like to be a bug on a windshield.
23. DON’T Be Afraid to Drive Off the Road to Avoid an Accident
Hitting a curb is always better than hitting a car.
24. DO Honk the Crap Out of Your Horn
It’s not an aggressive act in South East Asia. In fact, it can be a lifeline.
25. DO Always Signal
People will attempt to pass you on either side of the road, so make sure you let people know your intentions.
26. DO Get Some Travel Insurance
Just in case. It’s not a legal thing, it’s a using your brain thing.
27. DO Buy a Honda
Honda Waves, Honda Wins, and Honda Dreams are super reliable and extremely common, as are the parts required to fix them.
28. DO Buy a Secondhand Bike
New motorbikes require a ton of paperwork that you won’t have.
