Vietnam is becoming increasingly popular for backpackers and holiday makers, and we’re not surprised! It's a country of serene rural landscapes and busy urbanized cities with everything in between, from ancient temples to modern beach resorts. But in light of all its offerings—and given its varied climate—knowing what to pack for your trip to Vietnam can be tricky.
That’s where we come in (again) to save the day! Since you loved our posts on What to Pack for the Ha Giang Loop and What to Pack for Your Trekking Tour in Sapa we thought we’d create a more generalized guide to walk you through everything you need to pack for your trip to Vietnam.
This post includes advice tailored to the country's different regions, seasons, and customs so you're well-prepared and can focus on enjoying the adventure ahead.
Essentials You Should Pack for Your Trip to Vietnam
Before diving into your packing list, let's cover a few critical trip planning points that will make your travel smoother.
VISA Requirements: Depending on your nationality, Vietnam may require a visa. Be sure to check your specific visa requirements ahead of time on the official Vietnamese visa website to avoid complications at the airport.
Travel Insurance: Don’t travel without insurance. Money cards like Revolut give you the option to pay per month for a premium card that offers great travel insurance for a long trip. Otherwise Heymondo offers reliable and comprehensive travel insurance, which is especially useful for motorbike adventures or exploring remote regions.
Stay Connected: Having internet access is crucial for navigation and keeping in touch. Contact your network provider at home to enquire about eSims before you depart for your trip or purchase one from Airalo or Revolut to ensure a smooth connection. Alternatively you can buy a SIM card when you land, these are often cheaper from local convenience stores as opposed to buying one in the aiport.
Book Flights and Accommodation: Skyscanner, Trip.com, and Booking.com are great platforms to find affordable flights and accommodations tailored to your needs, whether you prefer hostels or boutique hotels.
Getting Around: For convenience in cities, download the Grab app to book rides or food deliveries. It's an essential tool for navigating Vietnam's urban landscapes.
Tours and Attractions: Planning on joining local tours or day trips, check out the Bong Hostel website here for affordable and curated experiences.
Key Considerations Before Packing for Your Trip
Your packing list will depend on where you're going, when you’re going there (in terms of the weather), and what you're doing. Let’s break it down:
Understanding Vietnam’s Seasons and Regions
Vietnam stretches over 1,000 kilometers from north to south, and its climate varies significantly across regions. Knowing the weather conditions in your chosen destinations will help you pack appropriately.
Northern Vietnam
(Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Sapa, Ha Giang, Cao Bang)
Spring (March to May) experiences moderate rainfall, with occasional showers. Similarly, Summer (June to August) equals rainy season in Vietnam. Days tend to be hot and humid and it often pours, so opt for breathable, lightweight clothing and pack a raincoat or poncho!
Autumn (September to November) is an excellent time to visit Vietnam. The weather is cooler and drier, making it ideal for lots of the North’s fun activities. September might still see some rain, but by October, the skies generally clear up,
Winters (December to February) can be chilly, with temperatures dropping as low as 10°C (50°F) in places like Sapa. Pack warm clothing and thermal layers if visiting during this time.
Central Vietnam
(Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang)
This region enjoys warmer weather year-round, but October and November bring heavy rains. Quick-drying clothes and rain gear are essentials for visiting during the rainy season.
Southern Vietnam
(Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc)
Expect tropical weather with high temperatures (around 30°C/86°F) year-round. Light, breathable clothing and sun protection are key. The wet season (May to November) brings heavy afternoon showers, so pack waterproof items accordingly.
No matter when or where you visit, being prepared for Vietnam’s varying climates is essential. Research the seasonal forecast for your specific itinerary and pack accordingly.
Activities You May Be Doing in Vietnam
The activities you plan to do in Vietnam will influence what you pack. Here’s a breakdown of essential items for popular activities:
Exploring Cities
(Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Hoi An, Hanoi)
When visiting cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, comfortable, breathable clothing is key. You’ll likely spend a lot of time walking, so pack:
Comfortable Shoes: Opt for sneakers or lightweight sandals suitable for urban exploration.
Casual Attire: Light dresses, shorts, and T-shirts are ideal for the hot, humid climate.
Modest Clothing: If visiting temples, pack a lightweight scarf or sarong to cover your shoulders and knees.
Trekking Adventures
(Sapa, Ninh Binh, Ha Giang)
For those planning trekking trips to Sapa or other outdoor adventures Ninh Binh, packing the right gear is essential:
Hiking Shoes: Choose sturdy, comfortable shoes with good grip for trekking.
Layers: Temperatures can drop in the mountains, so bring a fleece or thermal shirt for cooler evenings.
Rain Gear: A lightweight rain jacket or poncho is essential, especially during the rainy season.
Motorbiking Activities
(Ha Giang Loop, Cao Bang Loop, Hai Van Pass)
One of the most exhilarating activities in North Vietnam is motorbiking through the Ha Giang Loop. If you plan to ride or join an easy rider tour, here's what to pack:
Protective Gear: A good-quality helmet is non-negotiable when joining a tour with Bong Hostel. We also provide elbow and knee protection.
Sunglasses and Buff: The open roads expose you to sun and dust, so having a good pair of sunglasses and a buff to pull up over your mouth and nose is priceless.
Small Backpack: Keep your essentials close by in a secure backpack that won't hinder your movement while riding. A dry bag is ideal for keeping your belongings safe from unexpected rain or water splashes.
Must Read: Why You Should Do the Ha Giang Loop.
Water Activities
(Ha Long Bay, Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay, Nha Trang, Mui Ne, Phu Quoc)
If your plans include cruising through Ha Long Bay, kayaking off Cat Ba Island, or swimming on Nha Trang and Phu Quoc’s beaches:
Swimwear: Pack a swimsuit and cover-up for beach trips.
Dry Bag: Keep electronics and valuables safe from water damage with a dry bag.
Organizing and Protecting Your Items
Staying organized on the road can make a huge difference in your travel experience. Here are some organizational tips to keep your gear safe and easy to access:
Packing Cubes: These are a lifesaver for keeping your clothes organized. Use separate cubes for shirts, pants, and undergarments. Rolling your clothes can also save space.
Luggage Locks: Always bring a luggage lock to secure your backpack in hostels or when you're traveling on buses or trains. If you’re staying at Bong Hanoi or Bong Ha Giang Hostel we have secure lockers with either keycard or key options.
Dry Bag: Whether you're heading to the beach or taking a boat tour on the Mekong River, a dry bag will keep your electronics and valuables safe from water damage.
Backpack Cover: For travelers planning to motorbike or hike, a rain cover for your backpack is essential to keep your belongings dry.
Cross-Body Bag: Perfect for carrying your day-to-day essentials like your phone, wallet, and passport within easy reach.
Choosing Your Travel Bag: Backpack or Suitcase
It's also important to consider how you want to carry your items. The best option for Vietnam is often a backpack, especially if you’ll be navigating the country’s busy cities and rural regions.
Choose a durable, comfortable bag with multiple compartments to keep your items organized. Convertible backpacks (which double as suitcases) are a great alternative if you want flexibility.
Practical Items to Pack For Your Trip Vietnam
Now, let’s dive into the essential items to bring on your Vietnam trip, broken down by category.
Documents and Money
So let’s start with the absolute essentials:
Passport and Visa: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay. Keep digital and physical copies of your visa and important documents.
Cash and Cards: While credit cards are accepted in cities, cash is necessary in rural areas. Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your cards or sign up for a global money card before your trip. We recommend Monzo and Revolut.
Clothing and Footwear
The diverse weather and cultural expectations in Vietnam call for a flexible wardrobe. Here’s what you’ll need:
Underwear (you do you on how many you think you need)
2 pairs of shorts (cotton, linen)
3-4 t-shirts (mix of cotton and moisture-wicking materials)
1-2 pairs of linen trousers for cities or temple visits
1 lightweight long-sleeve shirt for cooler areas
Light rain jacket or poncho
Fleece jacket or hoodie
Thermal layers
A wide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection
Swimwear
Comfortable sneakers
Hiking Boots
Sandals or Flip-Flops
Gender Specific Items:
3-4 lightweight dresses (mix of long and short)
1 pair of leggings
Beach coverups
Remember both men and women need to dress modestly when visiting temples, with shoulders and knees covered.
Health and Safety Essentials
Staying healthy during your trip is a top priority, so here are the essentials:
Health Items
First-Aid Kit: Bring basics like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, imodium, and painkillers.
Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes are common, especially in tropical areas, so pack strong repellent to protect against mosquito-borne diseases. You can also purchase bracelets that have been soaked in citronella, which we find very effective.
Sunscreen: Choose a high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen for protection in Vietnam’s strong sun. Don’t forget to reapply every few hours.
Personal Medications: Make sure to pack medications you don’t feel you will be able to access whilst on your trip.
Hygiene Items
Hand Sanitizer: Useful for times when soap and water aren’t available, particularly when trying street food.
Tissues or Wet Wipes: Handy for public restrooms, which may not always be well-stocked.
Toiletries Packing List
You might want to pack travel-sized versions of your essentials. Feminine hygiene products can be hard to find in remote areas, so pack what you need.
Deodorant
Toothbrush & toothpaste
Shampoo & conditioner (consider bars rather than plastic-packaged liquids, for sustainability)
Body wash & lotion (opt for fragrance-free to avoid attracting insects)
Facial Cleanser & moisturizer
Razor, nail clippers, & comb or hairbrush
Chapstick with SPF
Tweezers
Gender Specific Items:
Basic makeup (sunscreen-based products are ideal)
Feminine hygiene products
When packing toiletries for Vietnam, keep in mind that many products, especially skincare, may contain whitening agents. It’s a good idea to bring your preferred products from home, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Electronics and Accessories
While Vietnam is well-connected, it’s important to pack the right electronics for convenience and safety.
Portable Charger: A must-have for long travel days, especially when using your phone for navigation.
Universal Adapter: Vietnam uses types A, C, and D power outlets, so a universal adapter will ensure your devices are compatible.
Camera or Smartphone: Whether for serious photography or casual memories, having a camera is essential for capturing Vietnam’s stunning scenery.
Final Tips on What to Pack For Your Trip Vietnam
Before zipping up your backpack, lay everything out and reassess what’s truly necessary. Here are a few final tips to keep in mind:
Think in Layers: Stick to lightweight, versatile clothing that can be layered for different weather conditions. Light jackets, scarves, and long-sleeve shirts can be easily added or removed.
Don’t Overpack: Laundry services are affordable and widely available in Vietnam (usually around $1 per kilogram), so pack fewer clothes and wash them along the way.
Leave Room for Souvenirs: Vietnam is known for its markets and unique souvenirs. Be sure to leave some space in your luggage for anything you might buy.
By packing smart and keeping things light and flexible, you’ll be ready for whatever adventures Vietnam throws your way!
And if you’re wondering how to make the most of your trip to Vietnam, why not check out our tours and hostel options for your time in North Vietnam—we run the best in the region ;) !!
Comments