Going to Southeast Asia. Is the water safe?

When we considered starting our full-time travels in Southeast Asia, we were concerned about the water. Drinking water was simple, buy bottled water. But what about dishes? And what if we cook at home? It’s true that tap water in many areas of Southeast Asia is generally not safe to drink, but locals and expats manage just fine with some common-sense precautions. We thought it would be helpful to share what we’ve learned about water safety in these areas.

Water Safety Tips for Travelers

Safe Water Practices

Drink only bottled, boiled, or filtered water. Check that bottles are sealed properly.
Use bottled water for brushing your teeth. This could be a matter of choice. We didn’t because we weren’t drinking it but if you feel safer, go for it!
Avoid ice in drinks unless you’re sure it’s made with purified water. In touristy areas, it often is and you’ll know because the ice is usually tubular with a hole in the middle if factory-made.
Carry a portable water filter or UV purifier (like SteriPen) if you’re backpacking or going off-grid.

Food and Produce Safety

Washing Fruits & Veggies

Wash with bottled or filtered water when possible, especially if you’re eating raw.
You can soak veggies/fruits in a salt water or vinegar solution for a few minutes to reduce bacteria and pesticides.
Stick to peeled fruits (like bananas, mangoes, etc.) if you’re unsure about cleanliness.

Washing Dishes and Laundry

Tap water is ok to use for washing dishes with soap. The key is that you’re using detergent and often hot water, which helps kill germs.
Final rinse: Some people do a final rinse with filtered or boiled water, especially for baby bottles or sensitive individuals, but most adults are fine with air-drying after washing with tap water and soap.
Air-drying is important as it allows residual chlorine or bacteria in the water to evaporate or die off.
Laundry: Tap water is generally okay for washing clothes.

Eating Out

Street food is a must, just pick busy stalls where food is cooked fresh and hot.
Avoid anything uncooked (like salads or fresh herbs) unless you’re sure it’s been washed safely.
Pro tip: Observe locals. If a place is popular and locals eat there, it’s usually safe. A fellow creator put it quite eloquently: If it’s moving, you’re grooving. If it’s sitting, you’re … You get the idea.

Pro Gear Suggestions

Grayl or Lifestraw filter bottles – perfect for on-the-go water purification.
Collapsible sink or bowl – handy for washing produce in your hotel/Airbnb with safe water.
Electrolyte packets – great for hydration, especially if you get a stomach bug.

As with anything else with travel, do your research and exercise common sense and you should be ok. And most importantly, enjoy the trip!