Vietnam Packing List: Visa, Clothes, Medication & More Tips

Get ready for an unforgettable Vietnam adventure? Packing well is key to enjoying your tour in Vietnam. This packing list will ensure you have everything you need for an easy trip. From travel essentials to helpful tips, this guide will help you pack smart and enjoy your vacation to the fullest.

Travel Documents to Pack

Passport

Your passport is the most important document for international travel and serves as your primary identification in Vietnam. Make sure to bring a valid passport, and check that it's valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay. If your passport is nearing expiration, it's recommended to renew it early. Additionally, it's recommended to carry a photocopy or digital scan of your passport for emergencies.

Visa

Be sure to check whether you need a Vietnam tourist visa before your trip. For U.S. Passprt holders, you can apply for a 90-day single-entry or multiple-entry e-visa. Citizens of some countries are eligible for visa-free entry, with visa-free stays typically ranging from 14 to 90 days. Citizens of the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and other eligible countries can stay for 45 days. If you are planning a trip to Vietnam more than 45 days, remember to apply for an e-visa.

Please note that visa-free policies may change at any time, so it is advisable to reconfirm before your trip.

Flight Ticket

Your flight ticket is essential for boarding your flight. Please keep it safe and ensure you have it handy when checking in. Double-check your flight details, including departure and arrival times, as well as your seat number. Also, be mindful of potential flight changes and stay updated with any notice from the airline.

Credit Cards and Cash

While credit cards are widely accepted, some small shops and street vendors in Vietnam still prefer cash. It's recommended to carry some Vietnamese Dong (VND) for small purchases. The current exchange rate is approximately 1 USD = 24,965 VND. You can exchange currency at airports, banks, or ATMs throughout Vietnam.

When using a credit card abroad, your bank may charge international transaction fees. Contact your bank before your trip to inquire about these fees and inform them of your travel plans.

For safety, keep your cash and cards in a secure place. Consider using a money belt or a hidden pocket.

Vietnamese Dong

Travel Insurance Documents

Be sure to purchase travel insurance before your trip, which will provide more protection for your journey. You can contact the insurance company which you trust for further advice about your Vietnam tour.

Before purchasing, it's crucial to read the travel insurance policy thoroughly to fully understand the coverage provided. Please take care of your insurance documents and note down the emergency contact number for the insurance company if needed.

Clothing and Essentials to Pack

Daily Clothing

Most regions of Vietnam enjoy a warm and pleasant climate year-round. One great thing about traveling to Vietnam is that you don't need to pack heavy clothes, no matter what time of year you go. Southern cities like Ho Chi Minh City allow for short sleeves and shorts even in winter. Hanoi in the north can get cooler during the winter. However, even in the north, you'll typically only need a light jacket. If you plan to visit higher areas like Sapa, thicker coats, long sleeves, and trousers are recommended.

For everyday comfort, it's a good idea to pack lightweight shoes and accessories like sunglasses and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Clothing in Ho Chi Minh City's Winter

Outdoor Activities Clothing

When heading to the beach, don't forget your swimsuit and high-SPF sunscreen. And grab a pair of flip-flops or sandals - your feet will thank you.

If you plan to go hiking, it's recommended to bring trekking poles and quick-drying clothing. For outdoor activities, don't forget to prepare insect repellent and a small handheld fan to prevent mosquito bites and heatstroke in hot weather.

If you plan to visit temples, remember to wear long sleeves to respect local customs. Additionally, some temples require you to take off your shoes, so it's a good idea to carry a pair of socks to avoid discomfort.

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Raining Gears

Vietnam's climate is affected by monsoons and is divided into dry and rainy seasons. The wet season starts from May to October, but it is not exactly rainy every day. Storms come fast and leave quickly, bring hotness away and leave some cool and fresh air.

Although October and November rain the most, it is mostly characterized by showers, and the skies clear up afterwards, leaving the weather nice and cool, which is ideal for outdoor fun.

However, if you are planning a Vietnam tour during monsoon season, it's recommended to bring an umbrella, raincoat, waterproof shoes, and extra socks when traveling just in case.

Daily Necessities

Given Vietnam's hot climate, it's advisable to choose sweat-proof makeup to stay looking fresh. Don't forget to bring your personal care essentials like toothpaste, toothbrush, razor, comb, and perfume. You can also pack an antiperspirant to cope with excessive sweating in hot weather and stay fresh and comfortable.

The Perfect Travel Companion

For a more comfortable journey, consider bringing a steam eye mask and a U-shaped pillow. These items can help you relax and rest better during long travel hours. To keep yourself entertained, pack books, an iPad, or Kindle with pre-downloaded content. This will make your trip more enjoyable and less stressful.

Electronics to Pack

Shooting Equipment

There are always beautiful moments worth remembering during a trip. A camera can capture the beauty of Vietnam and your unforgettable memories. To record more dynamic moments, a drone and a GoPro are ideal choices. Make sure to bring enough storage cards and charging equipment so you don't miss any exciting moments.

Power Adapter

Vietnam's standard voltage is 220V with a frequency of 50Hz. They use Type A outlets (with two flat pins), Type C outlets (with two round pins), and Type D outlets (with three round pins). To ensure convenient charging of your electronic devices during your trip, a power adapter is highly recommended.

Power Bank

When traveling to Vietnam, it's very important to keep your electronic devices fully charged. A power bank is a must-have, especially when you're out for long periods and may not find convenient charging spots.

Please note that there are regulations for carrying power banks on flights. Power banks with a rated capacity of less than 100 Wh can be carried on board, while those between 100 Wh and 160 Wh require airline approval, and each person is limited to carrying no more than two. Additionally, using a power bank is not allowed during the flight. Ensure your power bank is fully charged before your trip.

SIM Card

Purchasing a local SIM card is highly recommended for your trip to Vietnam. Using a local SIM card saves you from paying expensive roaming fees and allows for convenient internet access. The price of SIM cards in Vietnam typically ranges from 50,000 VND (1.99 USD) to 100,000 VND (3.99 USD). You can purchase one before your trip or at airports and convenience stores in Vietnam.

Medications to Pack

Getting sick while traveling can be a real problem, especially if you don't speak the local language. If you have a chronic illness that requires medication, it's important to consult your doctor before your trip to ensure you have enough medication for the duration of your trip. If you're traveling with children, remember to pack age-appropriate medications. In addition, it's recommended to bring some common medications, as follows:

Diarrhea Medicine

It's advisable to carry some medication for diarrhea, as sudden changes in diet may cause digestive discomfort. To be prepared for potential diarrhea, it's recommended to bring common medications such as Loperamide. Probiotics are also a good choice since they can help regulate gut flora and alleviate diarrhea.

Cold Medicine

Traveling to a new place can sometimes make you feel under the weather, especially with a cold. So, it's a good idea to pack some cold medicine before your trip. Even though you can buy cold medicine in Vietnam, it's always better to have your own, just in case you can't find what you need. If you do need to buy it in Vietnam, just feel free to ask your private guide for assistance.

Pain Relief Medicine

Vietnam's hot weather and frequent outdoor activities can lead to muscle aches and headaches. In addition, some women might experience menstrual cramps. Therefore, it's essential to pack pain relief medicine like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

Extra Travel Tips

Small Bag and Travel Locks for Luggage

For added security, consider using a small bag to carry your valuables, such as your phone and wallet. And using a luggage lock can enhance the security of your luggage, especially when it's out of sight.

Family Travel Essentials

Long trips can be tough for kids, so it's advisable to bring along their favorite toys, and books, or download their favorite shows to keep them entertained. Pack extra clothes and snacks for unexpected situations. For the elderly, don't forget their medications and any walking aids they might need.

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Bring Some Snacks

It's inevitable to encounter dining inconveniences while traveling. Carrying some snacks can not only satisfy your hunger but also help you kill time during long journeys. It's a good idea to bring some portable snacks like cookies, nuts, and energy bars.

Download Apps

To ensure a smooth and convenient trip, pre-download ride-hailing, food delivery, and navigation apps. Grab is a popular app in Vietnam for both transportation and food delivery. Google Maps will also be your reliable companion for finding your way around. For better communication, a translation app is highly recommended. You can use Google Translate, or iPhone Translate, and any other apps you are familiar with.

Pack Well to Start Your Vietnam Tour

You're all set to go! Vietnam's amazing food and beautiful scenery are just waiting for you. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure. Have a fantastic trip!