Vietnam Packing List

Vietnam
Packing List

What Should You Pack for Vietnam?

Vietnam’s tropical climate means you’ll want to pack light and breathable clothing. In summer, opt for loose shirts and shorts to stay cool. In the north during winter, you’ll need a light jacket or sweater, as temperatures can dip. For the rest of the year, lightweight layers are perfect. Don’t forget a rain jacket or umbrella for the rainy season!

Make sure you’re prepared for: Exploring Ha Long Bay, visiting the Old Quarter in Hanoi, cruising the Mekong Delta, and trekking in Sapa.

What to Wear in Vietnam

Vietnam is generally casual, but it’s respectful to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples. Light, flowy clothing is best for hot days, and a dress or nice outfit is ideal for a fancier evening in the cities. In beach towns like Da Nang or Phu Quoc, beachwear is fine, but cover up when leaving the beach.

*Note: This article contains affiliate links based on my own experiences, first-hand testing, and extensive research, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

Spring
70 – 90°F
(21 – 32°C )

Summer
75 – 95°F
(24 – 35°C )

Fall
65 – 85°F
(18 – 30°C )

Winter
55 – 75°F
(13 – 24°C )

Spring: Warm, some rain

Summer: Hot and humid, with frequent rain

Fall: Cooler, with fewer rainy days

Winter: Mild, especially in the north

Spring
3.0 inches of rain

Summer
6.5 inches of rain

Fall
5.0 inches of rain

Winter
2.5 inches of rain

Tops & Layers

1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for hot and humid days while exploring places like Hoi An—I loved having these for comfort!

2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Great for sun protection during hikes and city walks in Hanoi.

3. Tank Tops: Ideal for relaxing days by the beach or in the heat of the cities.

4. Casual Jacket: Perfect for cooler evenings, especially in northern Vietnam.

5. Rain Jacket: Essential during the rainy season, especially if you’re visiting areas like the Mekong Delta.

Bottoms & Dresses

1. Pants: Comfortable for longer travels and cool evenings—I really liked wearing these while exploring Hanoi!

2. Leggings: Ideal for hiking or lounging.

3. Shorts: A must for beach towns like Da Nang or Phu Quoc.

4. Dresses: Lightweight dresses are perfect for evenings out or days at the beach. My favorite style for this is a flowy midi dress.

5. Skirt: Great for casual city outings or sightseeing in Hoi An.

6. Jumpsuit: A stylish option for an evening out in Ho Chi Minh City.

Shoes & Accessories

1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes for exploring cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh.

2. Flats: Great for a night out in urban areas.

3. Swimsuit: Perfect for beach destinations like Nha Trang or Phu Quoc.

4. Flip Flops: Ideal for beach days and casual walks.

5. Sunglasses: Essential for sunny days whether you’re in the city or at the beach.

6. Hat: A must for sun protection during outdoor adventures in the Mekong Delta.

Luggage & Packs

1. Carry-On: Ideal for shorter trips or weekend getaways.

2. Daypack: Perfect for day trips and carrying essentials while sightseeing.

3. Purse: A stylish and practical option for evenings out.

4. Beach Bag: Handy for carrying items when you’re relaxing at the beach in Da Nang.

Travel Essentials

  1. Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
  2. Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
  3. Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
  4. Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
  5. Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
  6. White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
  7. Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
  8. Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
  9. Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
  10. Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
  11. Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
  12. Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
  1. 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.
  2. Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
  3. E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
  4. Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
  5. Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
  6. Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
  7. GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
  8. Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
  9. Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
  10. Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
  11. 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.
  12. Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
  13. Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
  1. Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
  2. Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
  3. Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
  4. Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
  5. Floss: Any floss will do.
  6. Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
  7. Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
  8. Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
  9. Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
  10. Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
  11. Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
  12. Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
  13. Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
  1. 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.
  2. Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
  3. After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
  4. Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
  5. Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
  6. Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
  7. Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
  8. Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
  9. Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
  10. 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.
  11. Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
  12. Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
  13. Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
  14. Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
  15. 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.
  16. Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
  1. Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
  2. Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
  3. Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
  4. Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
  5. Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
  6. Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
  7. Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
  8. Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
  9. Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
  10. Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
  11. Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
  12. Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
  1. Passport
  2. Travel Visas (if needed)
  3. Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
  4. Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
  5. Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
  6. 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.
  7. Credit / Debit Cards
  8. Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.

What to Know Before You Pack

  • Bring layers: While it’s warm most of the year, some regions like Sapa or Hanoi in winter can get cooler.
  • Lightweight shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, so pack comfortable shoes that are easy to wear in hot weather.
  • Bug spray: Vietnam’s tropical climate means mosquitoes are common, especially during the rainy season.
Vietnam
Packing List

Vietnam Travel FAQs

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT VIETNAM?

March is the best month to visit Vietnam, as the weather is warm and pleasant across most regions. March’s also great because it’s the end of the dry season, meaning fewer rainy days!

WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN VIETNAM?

Tet Nguyen Dan (January/February): The Vietnamese Lunar New Year, a time for family gatherings, fireworks, and special celebrations, great for solo travelers and families.

Mid-Autumn Festival (September/October): A fun festival celebrating the harvest with lanterns, mooncakes, and cultural performances—ideal for families and groups.

Hue Festival (April/May): A biennial cultural event featuring performances, traditional arts, and local food—excellent for couples and friends.

WHERE SHOULD I GO IN VIETNAM?

Vietnam is full of diverse landscapes and cities to explore. In the north, Hanoi offers cultural heritage, and nearby Ha Long Bay is a must-see for its limestone islands. Central Vietnam boasts the charming town of Hoi An, known for its lanterns and architecture. The south offers the bustling Ho Chi Minh City and the peaceful Mekong Delta, with floating markets and lush landscapes. If you love the beach, visit Phu Quoc or Da Nang for some relaxation.

HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT VIETNAM?

A trip to Vietnam can range from a short 7-10 day visit to cover the highlights, but 2-3 weeks would allow for a deeper exploration of the country’s culture and regions.

Suggested Itineraries:

2 Days: On day one, explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter, visit the Temple of Literature, and enjoy local street food. On day two, take a day trip to Ha Long Bay for a scenic boat tour.

5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: Spend day three visiting the ancient town of Hoi An, strolling along its lantern-lit streets. On day four, explore My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Day five can be spent relaxing on the beaches of Da Nang.

1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: Spend day six in Ho Chi Minh City, exploring the War Remnants Museum and Ben Thanh Market. On day seven, take a day trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels for a glimpse into Vietnam’s wartime history.

10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, cruise through the Mekong Delta, visiting floating markets and villages. Spend day nine relaxing in Phu Quoc or Nha Trang. On day ten, enjoy a final day of exploring Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant nightlife and shopping districts.

2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: Spend days eleven and twelve trekking in Sapa, visiting ethnic minority villages. On day thirteen, explore the caves and national parks in Phong Nha. Day fourteen can be spent exploring the Imperial City of Hue.

WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN VIETNAM?

2 Days

  • 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
  • 1 Pair of Pants
  • 2 Pairs of Socks
  • 2 Pairs of Underwear
  • 1 Comfortable Shoes
  • 1 Daypack

5 Days

  • 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 2 Pairs of Pants
  • 5 Pairs of Socks
  • 5 Pairs of Underwear
  • 1 Comfortable Shoes
  • 1 Daypack

1 Week

  • 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 2 Pairs of Pants
  • 6 Pairs of Socks
  • 6 Pairs of Underwear
  • 1 Comfortable Shoes
  • 1 Daypack

10 Days

  • 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 3 Pairs of Pants
  • 7 Pairs of Socks
  • 7 Pairs of Underwear
  • 1 Comfortable Shoes
  • 1 Daypack

2 Weeks

  • 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
  • 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
  • 4 Pairs of Pants
  • 9 Pairs of Socks
  • 9 Pairs of Underwear
  • 1 Comfortable Shoes
  • 1 Daypack

WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR VIETNAM?

Heavy winter coat: Vietnam’s weather is warm most of the year.

High heels: Not ideal for the uneven streets and busy markets.

WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO VIETNAM ?

Airfare: $500 – $1,200 depending on season and starting location.

Accommodation: $20 – $100 per night depending on your preference for hotels, hostels, or homestays.

Transportation: $30 – $100 for domestic flights, or $5 – $15 for bus and train travel between cities.

Meals: $10 – $50 per day depending on whether you’re eating street food or dining in restaurants.

Activities: $20 – $100 depending on whether you’re exploring independently or booking guided tours.

IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN VIETNAM? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?

Tipping is not expected in Vietnam, but it is appreciated. You can tip around 5-10% at restaurants, and small tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are welcomed.

WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT VIETNAM BEFORE I VISIT?

  • Be respectful of local customs: In temples, always cover your shoulders and legs.
  • Bargain at markets: Haggling is common in markets, especially for souvenirs.
  • Carry cash: While major cities accept credit cards, rural areas are still largely cash-based.

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