Luggage

So you've decided to embark on an adventure to Vietnam. Exciting! Now comes the tricky part - figuring out what essentials to cram into your luggage. Packing for a trip to Vietnam requires some strategic planning. You'll want to pack light for the hot and humid weather but also be prepared for anything. The key is choosing versatile and breathable clothing that can handle both the heat and potential rain, while also respecting the local culture. Don't forget essential toiletries, medications, chargers, and a sturdy pair of walking shoes. With some smart packing, you'll have an amazing trip exploring the vibrant cities, lush jungles, and sandy beaches of Vietnam. Time to get packing! Your Vietnam adventure awaits.

Choose the Right Luggage for Vietnam

When packing for Vietnam, choosing the right luggage is key. You'll want bags that are durable yet lightweight, and the perfect size for those small hotel rooms and budget airlines.

For your main bag, opt for a medium-sized suitcase or duffel bag. Aim for around 50 to 70 liters so you have room for souvenirs. Soft-sided is best since some budget airlines like VietJet Air have strict size limits for hard-sided luggage. Pack an extra bag inside for day trips.

Bring a small backpack as your carry-on. It will be handy for excursions and can double as your personal item on flights. Look for one with padded straps, multiple compartments and that's water-resistant.

Don't forget a packing organizer or two. Vietnam's humid weather means clothing and toiletries can get messy in your bags. Organizers help keep everything sorted and clean.

Consider packing a collapsible duffel or extra bag in your suitcase. That way if you go over on shopping or need an extra bag for part of your trip, you'll be covered.

When it comes to luggage for Vietnam, be practical but also prepared for anything. Choosing versatile, lightweight yet durable bags in the right sizes for budget airlines will make your trip easier. With the humidity and potential for over-packing souvenirs, packing organizers and an extra collapsible bag or two are must-haves. Focus on mobility, flexibility, and keeping your bags light. Your back will thank you for it!

Pack Lightweight and Versatile Clothing

When packing for Vietnam, lugging around heavy suitcases in the hot weather is the last thing you want. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing that can mix and match.

Bring T-shirts, tank tops, shorts, and sandals as your basics. Cotton or linen fabrics are ideal for the climate. Pack a few quick-dry shirts and shorts if you plan on doing outdoor activities.

Don't forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen - the sun is intense! An umbrella or light rain jacket will come in handy during the rainy season.

Versatile clothing like zip-off pants, dresses, skirts, and button-down shirts can be dressed up or down and are perfect for picnics, city exploring, or nights out. A sarong or pashmina can double as a towel, beach blanket, or modesty covering for temples.

Products like cooling towels, portable fans, and moisturizing aloe gel can provide relief from heat and humidity. Staying hydrated is also key - pack a reusable water bottle and refill frequently.

For footwear, flip flops, comfortable walking shoes, and sandals you can get wet are necessities. Heels are not practical for most occasions or terrain.

Undergarments, sleepwear, workout, and swimwear should also be lightweight.

A small first-aid kit, hand wipes, tissues, a flashlight, chargers, and any important medications should go in your carry-on. Don’t forget a roomy day bag to hold essentials when out sightseeing.

By packing versatile and lightweight clothing, you’ll have everything you need without being burdened. Enjoy your trip and leave extra room for unique souvenirs - you'll find plenty in vibrant Vietnam!

Don't Forget Rain Gear!

Rain jacket and poncho

No trip to Vietnam is complete without experiencing the tropical monsoons! Bring a lightweight rain jacket or poncho to stay dry during sudden downpours. An umbrella can be awkward to carry and may not hold up well in heavy rain and wind. A jacket with a hood is ideal, allowing you to keep your head and upper body protected. Look for a jacket made of waterproof nylon or a breathable fabric like Gore-Tex.

When packing your rain jacket, consider bringing an extra large plastic bag to put it in. This will prevent the rest of your luggage from getting wet if your jacket is soaked. You may also want to bring waterproof pants, especially if you plan to do activities like biking, hiking, or motorbiking. Regular pants will get soaked in a downpour and take a long time to dry in the humid climate.

Waterproof bags and cases

Bring waterproof or water-resistant bags, cases, and packs to keep valuables like electronics, documents, and cash dry. Ziploc bags can work in a pinch but for more heavy-duty protection look for bags rated IPX4 water resistance or higher. A waterproof phone case or sleeve is also a good idea. Don't forget to bring large sealable plastic bags to separate dirty and wet items from the rest of your luggage.

Quick-dry clothing

With the potential for frequent rain, pack clothing made of quick-dry, breathable fabrics like nylon, polyester, and rayon blends. Cotton takes a long time to air dry in humid weather and can leave you feeling damp and uncomfortable for hours. Lightweight shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, dresses, and skirts made of synthetic fibers will dry much faster, allowing you to enjoy more of your trip.

Bringing the right rain gear and quick-dry clothing will allow you to experience Vietnam's wet season in comfort. A few extra items can make a big difference in staying dry when the skies open up! With the proper precautions taken, you'll be ready to handle whatever the weather brings.

Comfortable Walking Shoes Are a Must

When packing for Vietnam, comfortable walking shoes should be at the top of your list. Vietnam’s cities and towns are best explored by foot, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking between attractions, at temples and pagodas, and amid busy markets.

Sturdy Sandals or Light Hikers

For warmer months, pack a pair of high-quality sandals or light hikers. Look for options with molded footbeds for arch support, textured outsoles for traction, and straps to keep them securely on your feet. Brands like Teva, Chaco, and Keen are great for travel. These will be good for daytime exploring, especially at ancient sites like Hoi An Ancient Town, the Imperial City in Hue, or Buddhist temples in Ho Chi Minh City.

Comfortable Sneakers

If visiting during winter or rainy season, definitely bring a pair of comfortable sneakers. Look for breathable styles that won’t get too hot, with removable insoles you can replace with orthotic inserts if needed. Popular athletic brands like Nike, Adidas, and Brooks all offer highly-rated walking shoes. These will keep your feet supported for long days of sightseeing or jungle trekking in places like Ba Vi National Park.

• Slip-on shoes for easy on and off

• Well-padded socks to prevent blisters

• Moisture-wicking liners in hot weather

• Consider over-the-ankle support for jungle activities

You’ll be doing a ton of walking in Vietnam, so your feet will appreciate shoes designed for lots of activity. Don’t make the mistake of bringing flimsy flip-flops, heels, or dress shoes—your feet will regret it! Focus on breathable, supportive shoes and comfortable socks so you can focus on enjoying all the walking and exploring, rather than complaining about sore feet. With the right walking shoes, you’ll be ready to discover all the natural and cultural wonders Vietnam has to offer.

Bring Chargers, Adapters and a Portable Charger

When traveling to Vietnam, preparing your electronics is essential. Here are some must-haves to include in your luggage:

Chargers and Adapters

Bring chargers for all your devices—phone, tablet, camera, etc. Vietnam uses Type A, C, and G plugs, so pack a universal adapter to handle the different shapes. The standard voltage is 220V, higher than North America's 110V, so double check your chargers can handle the difference to avoid damage. If not, you'll need a voltage converter. For more information, check our article on Vietnam's electricity.

Portable Charger

A portable charger or power bank lets you recharge on the go when outlets aren't available. Choose one with at least 10,000 mAh for multiple recharges of your phone. Solar-powered ones are convenient since you'll be outside a lot, but standard ones work too if you recharge overnight.

Extra Batteries

If your camera, headphones, or other devices don't recharge via USB, bring extra batteries. Purchase them before your trip and pack them in your carry-on. Some specific types of batteries can be hard to find.

Cable Organizer

Throw in a cable organizer or zippered pouch to keep all your cords, plugs, and batteries neatly sorted in your luggage and backpack. Tangled cables are frustrating and time-consuming to unravel. An organizer makes it easy to quickly grab what you need.

Bring Chargers, Adapters and a Portable Charger

When traveling to Vietnam, preparing your electronics is essential. Here are some must-haves to include in your luggage:

Chargers and Adapters

Bring chargers for all your devices—phone, tablet, camera, etc. Vietnam uses Type A, C, and G plugs, so pack a universal adapter to handle the different shapes. The standard voltage is 220V, higher than North America's 110V, so double check your chargers can handle the difference to avoid damage. If not, you'll need a voltage converter. For more information, check our article on Vietnam's electricity.

Portable Charger

A portable charger or power bank lets you recharge on the go when outlets aren't available. Choose one with at least 10,000 mAh for multiple recharges of your phone. Solar-powered ones are convenient since you'll be outside a lot, but standard ones work too if you recharge overnight.

Extra Batteries

If your camera, headphones, or other devices don't recharge via USB, bring extra batteries. Purchase them before your trip and pack them in your carry-on. Some specific types of batteries can be hard to find.

Cable Organizer

Throw in a cable organizer or zippered pouch to keep all your cords, plugs, and batteries neatly sorted in your luggage and backpack. Tangled cables are frustrating and time-consuming to unravel. An organizer makes it easy to quickly grab what you need.

So there you have it, everything you need to know to pack like a pro for your Vietnam adventure. With the essentials covered, you'll be ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, explore the breathtaking natural scenery, sample the delicious food, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Don't stress too much about overpacking because you can pick up anything you need once you arrive. Focus instead on going in with an open and curious mindset. Vietnam awaits you with all its beauty, history, and charm. All that's left to do is start counting down the days until your trip! The experience of a lifetime is just around the corner. Happy travels!