Planning your dream trip to Vietnam? I know that packing can be a little tricky due to the country’s diverse climate and the wide range of activities you might enjoy. This comprehensive Vietnam packing list will ensure you’re prepared for anything, from steamy city explorations to cool mountain treks and everything in between, no matter the season or region you are visiting.
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Contents
Vietnam Packing List: Clothing
This section covers all the clothing essentials you’ll need. Remember, you can always buy clothes in Vietnam if you need something extra, and laundry services are cheap and readily available.
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Tops
- Lightweight, breathable shirts (long-sleeved and short-sleeved): I recommend packing around 5-7 shirts. A mix of long-sleeved and short-sleeved is ideal. Long sleeves are good for sun protection and mosquito protection, as well as for visiting temples (where shoulders should be covered). Materials like linen, cotton, and moisture-wicking synthetics are best.
- Tank tops (for hot weather): Pack 3-4 tank tops for those really hot and humid days, especially in the South.
- Dressier shirt/blouse (for evenings out): This is optional, but it’s nice to have one nicer top if you plan on going to any rooftop bars or nicer restaurants. I usually pack one simple, versatile blouse.
Bottoms
- Lightweight, quick-drying pants: I recommend 2-3 pairs. Convertible pants (that zip off into shorts) are a great option for versatility. Look for materials like nylon or lightweight travel blends.
- Shorts: Pack 2-3 pairs of shorts for hot weather.
- Skirt or dress (for women): 1-2 skirts or dresses are great for evenings out or visiting temples (knees should be covered).
- Jeans (optional): I personally don’t pack jeans because they’re heavy, bulky, and slow to dry. But if you’re very attached to your jeans, you can bring one pair.
Underwear and Socks
- Underwear: Pack enough for your trip duration, or consider buying quick-drying travel underwear that you can wash in the sink and dry overnight. I usually pack 7-10 pairs, even for longer trips.
- Socks: Pack 3-5 pairs. Moisture-wicking socks are great for keeping your feet dry and comfortable, especially if you’re doing a lot of walking.
Outerwear
- Light rain jacket or poncho: This is essential, even in the dry season. Sudden downpours can happen anytime, anywhere in Vietnam. I always have a packable rain jacket in my daypack.
- Light sweater or fleece: For cooler evenings, air-conditioned buses/trains, and especially for visiting Northern Vietnam (Sapa, Ha Giang) or Da Lat.
Swimwear
If you plan on visiting beaches, pools, or Ha Long Bay, pack at least one swimsuit.
Sleepwear
Pack whatever you’re comfortable sleeping in. Lightweight pajamas or a simple t-shirt and shorts are fine.
Shoes
- Comfortable walking shoes: This is the most important footwear you’ll need. Choose sneakers, walking sandals, or comfortable walking shoes that you’ve already broken into. You’ll be doing a lot of walking!
- Sandals or flip-flops: Essential for showers, beaches, and relaxing around your accommodation. I always pack a pair of Havaianas.
- Dressier shoes (optional): Only pack these if you have specific plans that require them (e.g., a fancy dinner or event). Otherwise, they’re probably not worth the space.
Gear & Accessories
Backpacks & Bags
- Main backpack or suitcase: For trips longer than a week, I recommend a 40-60 liter backpack. For shorter trips, a carry-on sized suitcase or backpack (around 40 liters) is usually sufficient. I personally prefer backpacks for easier maneuverability on crowded streets and uneven terrain.
- Daypack: A small, comfortable backpack (15-25 liters) is essential for day trips, excursions, and carrying your daily essentials.
- Dry bag: This is highly recommended, especially if you’re planning on doing any boat trips (Ha Long Bay, Mekong Delta), water activities, or visiting during the rainy season. It will protect your electronics and valuables from water damage. I use a 5-10 liter dry bag.
Electronics
- Phone and charger: Obviously! Make sure your phone is unlocked so you can use a local Vietnamese SIM card (which I highly recommend for affordable data).
- Travel adapter: Vietnam uses a mix of plug types: Type A (two flat pins, like in the US), Type C (two round pins, like in Europe), and Type G (three rectangular pins, like in the UK). A universal travel adapter is your best bet.
- Power bank: A portable charger is a lifesaver, especially on long travel days or when you’re out exploring.
- Camera and charger (optional): If you’re a serious photographer, bring your camera. But for most people, a good smartphone camera is sufficient.
- E-reader or tablet (optional): Great for long journeys or downtime.
- Headphones: Essential for flights, bus rides, and blocking out noise. Noise-canceling headphones are a bonus!
Toiletries
- Travel-sized toiletries: Bring travel-sized versions of your shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, and toothbrush. You can buy most toiletries in Vietnam, but it’s convenient to have your own, especially when you first arrive.
- Sunscreen (high SPF): The sun in Vietnam can be intense, even on cloudy days. Pack a high-SPF sunscreen and reapply it frequently.
- Insect repellent (with DEET): Mosquitoes can be a problem, especially in rural areas and during the rainy season. DEET is the most effective repellent.
- Hand sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean, especially before eating.
- Wet wipes: Useful for freshening up on the go.
- Medications (prescription and over-the-counter): Bring any prescription medications you need, as well as over-the-counter essentials like pain relievers, anti-diarrheal medication, and allergy medication.
- First-aid kit: Pack a small first-aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, anti-diarrheal medication, motion sickness medication (if you’re prone to it), and any other personal medical supplies.
- Feminine hygiene products (if needed): While tampons and pads are available in Vietnam, the selection might be limited, especially outside of major cities. It’s best to bring your preferred products.
Documents
- Passport (with at least 6 months validity): This is the most important document you’ll need! Make sure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Vietnam.
- Visa (if required): Most international travelers can obtain a 90-day, multiple-entry e-visa for Vietnam. Some nationalities may be eligible for visa exemptions. Always check the latest visa requirements on the official Vietnam Immigration Department website or with the Vietnamese embassy/consulate in your country before you travel.
- Copies of important documents: Make copies of your passport, visa, flight tickets, and travel insurance information. Keep these separate from the originals. I also recommend storing digital copies on your phone and in the cloud.
- Travel insurance information: Make sure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, lost luggage, and trip cancellations. Bring a copy of your policy and contact information. I never travel without it.
- Emergency contact information: Keep a list of emergency contacts (family, friends, your embassy) with you.
Other Useful Items
- Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, and a reusable water bottle helps reduce plastic waste.
- Travel towel (quick-drying): These are lightweight, compact, and dry much faster than regular towels.
- Small flashlight or headlamp: Useful for power outages, navigating dark streets, or exploring caves.
- Money belt or hidden pouch: This is for keeping your money and valuables safe, especially in crowded areas.
- Basic Vietnamese phrasebook or translation app: Even a few basic phrases will be helpful and appreciated by locals. Google Translate is your friend!
- Sunglasses: Essential for protecting your eyes from the strong sun.
- Hat: A wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap will provide extra sun protection.
Packing for Different Seasons in Vietnam
Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate, but it’s not as simple as just “dry season” and “rainy season.” There are significant regional variations, and even within the seasons, temperatures and rainfall can fluctuate. Here’s a breakdown.
Packing for Vietnam in the Dry Season (Generally November – April)
This is generally considered the best time to visit most of Vietnam, with lower humidity and less rainfall. However, “dry” doesn’t always mean “hot.”
Clothing:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing is key: Think cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking fabrics. Pack mostly short-sleeved shirts, shorts, and dresses.
- Long-sleeved shirts and pants: Still essential for sun protection, mosquito protection, and visiting religious sites.
- Light sweater or fleece: Especially important for Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay), where it can get surprisingly cool, especially in the evenings and at higher altitudes. I always pack a light fleece jacket, even in the dry season.
- Jeans (optional): Again, I generally avoid them, but if you must, one pair is enough.
Other Considerations:
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses: The sun is strong year-round.
- Insect repellent: Mosquitoes are less prevalent in the dry season, but still present.
Packing for Vietnam in the Rainy Season (Generally May – October)
The rainy season brings higher humidity, frequent downpours, and the potential for flooding in some areas. But don’t let that deter you! It can also be a beautiful time to visit, with lush green landscapes and fewer crowds.
Clothing:
- Quick-drying clothing is essential: Synthetic fabrics are your best friend. Avoid cotton, which takes a long time to dry.
- Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants: Offer protection from both rain and mosquitoes (which are more prevalent in the rainy season).
- Rain jacket or poncho: Absolutely essential! A lightweight, packable rain jacket is ideal. I prefer a jacket to a poncho because it offers better coverage and is less likely to blow around in the wind.
- Waterproof sandals or shoes: Your feet will get wet. Consider waterproof sandals like Tevas or Crocs, or quick-drying walking shoes.
Other Considerations:
- Dry bag: Essential for protecting your electronics and valuables from water damage.
- Umbrella (optional): I find a rain jacket more practical, but some people prefer an umbrella.
- Insect repellent: Mosquitoes are abundant in the rainy season.
- Be aware of potential flooding: In some areas, especially in Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Hue) and the Mekong Delta, flooding can occur during the rainy season. Check the weather forecast and be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary.
Regional Variations
Vietnam’s climate varies significantly from North to South:
- North Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay): Has four distinct seasons. The dry season (November-April) is cool and dry, while the rainy season (May-October) is hot and humid. Winters (December-February) can be surprisingly cold, especially in the mountains (Sapa).
- Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Hue, Da Nang): Has a hot and dry season (February-May) and a rainy season (September-November) with a risk of typhoons and flooding.
- South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc): Has a tropical climate with two main seasons: a dry season (November-April) and a rainy season (May-October). It’s generally hot and humid year-round.
Packing for Specific Activities
While the core packing list covers the essentials, here’s how to adapt it for specific activities.
Trekking/Hiking
If you’re planning on trekking in Sapa, Ha Giang, or other mountainous areas, you’ll need to be prepared for cooler temperatures, varied terrain, and potentially wet conditions.
- Sturdy hiking shoes or boots: Essential for ankle support and traction on uneven trails. Make sure they’re broken in before your trip! I prefer lightweight, waterproof hiking boots.
- Moisture-wicking socks: Several pairs. These will keep your feet dry and comfortable, preventing blisters.
- Appropriate clothing layers: Pack lightweight, quick-drying layers, including long-sleeved shirts, pants, a fleece jacket, and a rain jacket. Even in the dry season, it can get cold at higher altitudes.
- Backpack: A daypack which has support for your back.
- Trekking Poles (Optional): Can be useful for steep climbs and descents.
Beach Vacation
If you’re heading to Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Mui Ne, or Hoi An’s beaches, you can pack a bit lighter and focus on beach essentials.
- Swimwear: At least two swimsuits, so you always have a dry one.
- Beach towel: A quick-drying travel towel is ideal.
- Sun protection: High-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are essential.
- Cover-up: A sarong, light dress, or oversized shirt is useful for going from the beach to restaurants or shops.
- Flip-flops or sandals: Easy to slip on and off.
- Waterproof bag: for your phone.
City Exploration
For exploring cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hue, comfort and practicality are key.
- Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. Sneakers, walking sandals, or supportive flats are all good options.
- Daypack: For carrying your essentials (water bottle, sunscreen, wallet, phone, camera).
- Appropriate attire for visiting temples: Shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting temples and pagodas. A long-sleeved shirt and long pants or a skirt/dress are ideal. I always carry a lightweight scarf in my daypack that I can use to cover my shoulders if needed.
- Cross-body bag or money belt: For keeping your valuables secure in crowded areas.
Gender-Specific Considerations
While the core packing list (clothing, gear, toiletries, documents) applies to everyone, there are some specific adjustments and additions to consider based on gender. I’ve traveled extensively in Vietnam with both male and female companions, and these are the key takeaways:
For Men
Clothing:
- Shirts: Focus on lightweight, breathable t-shirts (both short-sleeved and long-sleeved). A couple of collared shirts (linen or cotton) can be useful for slightly dressier occasions. Neutral colors (grey, navy, khaki) are versatile.
- Pants: Lightweight, quick-drying travel pants are ideal. Convertible pants (that zip off into shorts) offer great versatility.
- Shorts: Pack a few pairs of comfortable shorts for hot weather.
- Underwear: Quick-drying travel underwear is highly recommended for comfort and convenience. Brands like ExOfficio are popular.
- Swimwear: If you plan on swimming, pack at least one pair of swim trunks.
Shoes:
- Comfortable walking shoes (sneakers or walking sandals) are essential.
- Sandals or flip-flops are great for showers, beaches, and relaxing.
- Dress shoes are optional, only if you have specific plans that require them.
Toiletries:
- Bring your preferred shaving supplies. Basic supplies are available in Vietnam, but the selection might be limited.
- Deodorant is a must in the hot and humid climate.
- Cologne (optional): small travel-size
For Women
Clothing:
- Tops: A mix of lightweight, breathable t-shirts (short-sleeved and long-sleeved), tank tops, and one or two dressier blouses or tops.
- Bottoms: Lightweight, quick-drying pants (convertible pants are great!), shorts, and a skirt or dress or two. Maxi dresses/skirts are comfortable, stylish, and provide coverage for temple visits.
- Leggings or yoga pants: Useful for travel days, cooler evenings, or layering.
- Underwear: Quick-drying travel underwear is highly recommended.
- Bras: Pack comfortable bras, including a sports bra for active activities.
- Swimwear: At least one swimsuit (possibly two for extended beach time).
Shoes:
- Comfortable walking shoes (sneakers, walking sandals, or supportive flats) are essential.
- Sandals or flip-flops are great for showers, beaches, and relaxing.
- Dressier sandals are optional for nicer evenings out.
Toiletries:
- Bring your preferred feminine hygiene products, as the selection in Vietnam may be limited.
- Keep makeup minimal due to the heat and humidity.
- Skincare: in travel size
Other Considerations:
- Modest clothing for temples: Shoulders and knees must be covered when visiting temples and pagodas. A lightweight scarf or shawl is incredibly useful for this. I always have one in my daypack.
- Safety: Vietnam is generally very safe for female travelers, but be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft. A cross-body bag or money belt can help.
Tips for Packing Light
These are my tried-and-true strategies for minimizing your luggage and maximizing your travel experience in Vietnam:
- Choose versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched. This is the golden rule of packing light. Stick to a neutral color palette (black, grey, navy, khaki, white) and choose items that can be dressed up or down. For example, a simple black dress can be worn sightseeing during the day with sandals and then dressed up with jewelry and nicer shoes for the evening. A pair of dark-colored, lightweight travel pants can be worn for hiking, exploring cities, or even to a casual dinner. I always make sure that almost every top I pack can be worn with almost every bottom.
- Use packing cubes to compress clothing and stay organized. Packing cubes are a game-changer! They compress your clothes, making them take up less space in your luggage. They also help you stay organized – you can have one cube for tops, one for bottoms, one for underwear, etc. I swear by packing cubes – they’ve transformed the way I pack. I can easily find things without unpacking the whole bag.
- Roll your clothes instead of folding them. Rolling your clothes saves space and helps prevent wrinkles. It’s a simple trick, but it makes a big difference. Tightly roll each item and pack them snugly into your packing cubes.
- Wear your heaviest items on the plane. This is a classic tip, but it works! Wear your bulkiest shoes (like hiking boots or sneakers), your jacket, and your heaviest sweater or pants on the plane. This frees up space in your luggage and keeps you warm on the flight (which can often be chilly).
- Don’t pack things you can easily buy in Vietnam. Toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and sunscreen are readily available and often cheaper in Vietnam. Unless you have very specific brand preferences or sensitivities, you can save space and weight by buying these items when you arrive. The same goes for basic medications like pain relievers and anti-diarrheal medication (though I always recommend bringing a small supply of your essentials, just in case).
Bonus Tip: Make a packing list well in advance of your trip. Lay out everything you think you need, and then try to eliminate at least a third of it. Be ruthless! You’ll likely find that you don’t need nearly as much as you initially thought. I always challenge myself to pack less than I think I need, and I’m rarely disappointed.
Conclusion
Packing appropriately is key to having a smooth and enjoyable trip to Vietnam, and I hope this Vietnam packing list has given you a solid foundation for preparing your luggage! Remember to use this as a starting point and customize it to your own specific needs, itinerary, and travel style. For even more help, download our printable checklist and check out our other Vietnam travel tips to make your adventure truly unforgettable!
P.S. Want to learn more than just what to pack? Check out my blog, Go Travel Way (gotravelway.com), for insider tips and unique Vietnam experiences.
