5 Essential Tips for Cycling in Vietnam’s Hot Summer
Summer is peak cycling season — in Vietnam and around the world. Whether training hard for upcoming races or simply riding to stay fit and feel good, the blazing summer heat can be a real challenge.
So, how do you train smart and stay safe under the sun?
Let Vietnam Bike Adventure guide you through 5 pro tips for effective (and enjoyable!) summer rides.
Drink plenty of water and electrolytes while cycling
You should always bring water, even for short rides lasting only a few dozen minutes. Avoid drinking too much cold water at once, as it can cause muscle cramps and stop you from riding further. Instead, try sipping water regularly to match your body’s energy and hydration needs.
Don’t wait until you feel extremely thirsty with a dry mouth — by then, your body is already dehydrated and might run out of energy before you even make it home.
If you’re riding for more than an hour, make sure to bring an electrolyte drink. The sodium in electrolyte solutions helps prevent dehydration, so drink it throughout your ride to stay balanced!
Plan your cycling route in advance
A smart cyclist always considers where they’ll train before getting on the saddle. Choose routes with lots of trees or those surrounded by tall buildings. These places offer more shade, shielding you from the intense summer sun.
Avoid riding on busy roads where the temperature tends to be higher and air quality is worse due to dust and traffic — it can make breathing difficult. Prioritize scenic routes with tree cover — they’ll make you feel more motivated to train and enjoy your ride more!
Choose the ideal time to cycle
Avoid cycling outdoors when temperatures peak between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Instead, head out early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
If you start at dawn, you’ll get to enjoy fresh, cool air and feel energized for the day. For those who aren’t morning people, late afternoon may be a great time to train and improve your riding technique and endurance. At that time, the heat starts to ease off, and you can ride comfortably without worrying about the harsh sun.
However, if you’re riding as the sun sets and it starts getting dark, remember to bring your bike lights. They’ll help you see the road clearly and alert others to your presence.
Ride at a slower pace
Don’t make the mistake of thinking you can ride faster in the summer. The heat causes your body to lose energy more quickly, so ride at a moderate, manageable speed to stay comfortable throughout your workout.
If you’re training for a race, be especially cautious during long-distance or high-speed sessions. Hot weather can increase your heart rate rapidly and exhaust you more quickly, which might even lead to heatstroke or exhaustion in extreme cases.
Wear the right clothes
Wearing the right clothing will keep you comfortable and help you train more efficiently. Avoid wearing dark-colored outfits like black, as dark colors absorb more heat and can make you feel even hotter during your ride.
Instead, try wearing light-colored clothing. Look for cycling apparel made from breathable, moisture-wicking fabric to help keep your body dry and cool.
Wearing a cycling cap or a visor can also be useful on extremely sunny days — it protects your face from sunburn caused by direct sunlight.
In summary:
👉 Stay smart. Stay hydrated. Dress well. Pick the right time and place, and cycling in the summer can still be safe, productive, and enjoyable.
👉 Rent a bike or join a ride with Vietnam Bike Adventure, and explore your journey with confidence!
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