What Should You Pack for Ho Chi Minh?
Ho Chi Minh is always warm, so pack lightweight, breathable clothing! Spring and summer can get quite hot and humid, so short sleeves, tank tops, and airy dresses are essential. A rain jacket or umbrella is useful in the rainy season, especially if you’re exploring the city. In fall and winter, it’s still warm but less rainy, so light, casual clothes will keep you comfortable. Don’t forget comfortable walking shoes for all the city exploring and a hat for sun protection!
Make sure you’re prepared for: Exploring Ben Thanh Market, visiting the War Remnants Museum, taking a river cruise, and enjoying street food tours.
Dress Code
Ho Chi Minh has a casual yet lively fashion scene, with locals opting for light and breathable clothing due to the heat. When visiting temples, modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) is respectful and appreciated. Casual attire like shorts, skirts, and t-shirts work perfectly for sightseeing and market visits. If you’re heading to upscale restaurants or bars, a casual dress or stylish outfit is recommended. The city is great for exploring on foot, so comfortable shoes are a must!
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Spring
77 – 93°F
(25 – 34°C
)
Summer
77 – 95°F
(25 – 35°C
)
Fall
75 – 90°F
(24 – 32°C
)
Winter
75 – 90°F
(24 – 32°C
)
Spring: Hot and humid with occasional rain
Summer: Very hot and humid, frequent rain
Fall: Warm with less rain, humid
Winter: Warm and dry
Spring
4.3 inches of rain
Summer
11.4 inches of rain
Fall
8.2 inches of rain
Winter
1.1 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Great for staying cool during hot afternoons—I loved having these for casual exploring!
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for evenings or cooler indoor spots like malls.
3. Tank Tops: Useful for hot days when you’re out walking around.
4. Casual Jacket: A lightweight jacket is useful for air-conditioned places or sudden rain showers.
5. Sweater: For cooler evenings or when indoors in air-conditioned spaces.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Shorts: Comfortable for exploring markets and walking tours—I really liked these for casual outings!
2. Dresses: Great for warm, sunny days or dining out.
3. Pants: Light, breathable pants are good for cooler evenings or visiting temples.
4. Skirt: Perfect for sightseeing or a casual day out.
5. Leggings: Useful for layering or if you want something comfortable for a long day of exploring.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable shoes are essential for walking around the markets—I really liked how these held up for long days!
2. Sandals: Perfect for hot days and casual outings.
3. Sunglasses: The sun can be intense, so don’t forget these!
4. Hat: A must for sun protection while walking around the city or lounging by the river.
5. Swimsuit: Great if you’re planning to take a dip or visit a hotel pool.
6. Sarong: Ideal for covering up at the beach or riverbank.
7. Beach Coverup: Perfect for days by the river or pool.
8. Pajamas: Lightweight and breathable for warm nights.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Perfect for keeping essentials handy on short trips.
2. Daypack: Great for carrying your gear while exploring the city and markets.
3. Purse: Practical for carrying personal items like money and sunscreen while visiting landmarks.
4. Tote Bag: Useful for shopping at local markets or carrying extra items during a day of sightseeing.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Light clothing: The heat and humidity can be intense, so breathable fabrics like cotton are your best friends.
- Rain gear: A compact rain jacket or umbrella is essential for the rainy season.
- Comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking a lot around markets and museums, so pack shoes that are good for all-day wear.
- Modest attire: If you plan to visit temples, bring modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
Ho Chi Minh Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT HO CHI MINH?
December is the best month to visit Ho Chi Minh because it’s the dry season, with warm, sunny weather and less humidity. December’s also great because there are fewer crowds, and outdoor activities like visiting markets and temples are more enjoyable.
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN HO CHI MINH?
Tet Nguyen Dan (January/February): Vietnamese Lunar New Year, a family-oriented festival with colorful parades and street performances, perfect for families and couples.
Mid-Autumn Festival (September/October): A fun festival celebrated with lanterns, mooncakes, and dragon dances, ideal for families and solo travelers.
Ao Dai Festival (March): A celebration of traditional Vietnamese clothing, with fashion shows and cultural performances, great for fashion enthusiasts.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN HO CHI MINH?
Ho Chi Minh is a vibrant city with a blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. One of my favorite spots is Ben Thanh Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and try delicious street food. Visit the War Remnants Museum for a deep dive into the city’s history, and don’t miss Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Saigon Central Post Office for stunning colonial architecture. If you love the outdoors, a river cruise along the Saigon River offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT HO CHI MINH?
3-4 days is enough to explore Ho Chi Minh’s key sights, markets, and historical attractions. You can cover the highlights in a shorter trip too.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, visit the War Remnants Museum, explore Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, then enjoy dinner at Ben Thanh Market. Spend day two taking a river cruise and exploring the city’s street food scene.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, visit the Cu Chi Tunnels and learn about Vietnam’s history. Spend day four exploring the Jade Emperor Pagoda and the Reunification Palace. On day five, take a day trip to the Mekong Delta for a boat ride and explore floating markets.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, explore the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens. On day seven, visit the Fine Arts Museum and take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, visit the FITO Museum to learn about traditional Vietnamese medicine. Spend day nine shopping along Dong Khoi Street. On day ten, relax with a visit to a local spa or take a leisurely stroll along the Saigon River.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, visit Can Gio Mangrove Forest for a day of nature and wildlife. Spend day twelve visiting the Vinh Nghiem Pagoda. On days thirteen and fourteen, take a trip to the beaches of Vung Tau for some relaxation.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN HO CHI MINH?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Sweater
- 1 Dress
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 3 Dresses
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 4 Dresses
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR HO CHI MINH?
Heavy winter clothing: Ho Chi Minh is always warm, so thick coats and heavy clothing are unnecessary.
High heels: The city’s streets and markets are best explored in comfortable walking shoes.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO HO CHI MINH ?
Airfare: $500-$1,200 depending on your starting location and season. Prices are higher during the Tet holiday.
Accommodation: $30-$150 per night depending on whether you stay in a budget hotel or luxury option.
Transportation: $10-$30 per day for taxis or motorbike rentals.
Meals: $10-$30 per day, with affordable street food and mid-range restaurants.
Activities: $10-$40 per day for museum visits, guided tours, or river cruises.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN HO CHI MINH? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is not common in Vietnam, but it is appreciated in tourist areas. A tip of 10% at restaurants or leaving small change for hotel staff is generally accepted.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT HO CHI MINH BEFORE I VISIT?
- Bargain in markets: Haggling is expected in local markets like Ben Thanh, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices.
- Use taxis with meters: To avoid being overcharged, use reputable taxi companies like Vinasun or Mai Linh, and ensure the meter is on.
- Stay hydrated: The heat and humidity can be intense, so carry water with you and take breaks when needed.
- Traffic: Motorbikes dominate the roads, so be cautious when crossing streets.