Vietnam car owners turn to flood-protection bags amid storm fears

Social media platforms in Vietnam have seen a surge in images of cars wrapped in large plastic sheaths or perched on air-cushioned bases, especially following storm Ragasa and ahead of storm Bualoi, which is forecast to make landfall in the coming days.

The products, marketed as ‘car flood bags,’ range in price from around VND1 million (US$38) for standard PVC covers to VND30 million ($1,136) for premium versions that allow the vehicle to float.

Most are sold online and have gained traction as urban flooding becomes more frequent.

The trend reflects rising concerns among car owners following damage from heavy storms in previous years, including 2024’s typhoon Yagi, which flooded parts of Hanoi, toppled trees, and disrupted traffic.

Sellers claim the bags protect sensitive components such as engine compartments and electrical systems, but their real-world effectiveness remains largely anecdotal.

Some users have hailed the covers as an affordable safeguard, while others question their reliability in severe weather conditions.