Essential Documents
Before thinking about clothes or gadgets, make sure you pack the essentials:
- ✅ Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- ✅ Vietnam Visa (e-Visa printout or Visa on Arrival approval letter)
- ✅ Travel Insurance certificate
- ✅ Flight tickets & hotel booking confirmations
- ✅ Emergency contact list (embassy, local contacts)
💡 Pro Tip: Keep digital copies of your documents stored on your phone & cloud drive.
Clothing by Season
Vietnam’s climate varies by region – pack accordingly:
North Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long)
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Warm clothes, jackets, scarves.
- Summer (May–Aug): Light cotton clothes, hats, sunglasses.
Central Vietnam (Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue)
- Rainy season (Sep–Dec): Waterproof jacket, quick-dry clothes.
- Dry season (Jan–Aug): Light clothes, swimwear.
South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc)
- Hot all year: Shorts, t-shirts, sandals, breathable fabrics.
- Occasional rain: Small umbrella or poncho.
Electronics & Travel Gear
- 📱 Smartphone (with local SIM/eSIM)
- 🔌 Universal adapter (Vietnam uses 220V, Type A/C plugs)
- 🎧 Noise-canceling headphones (for long flights/trains)
- 💻 Laptop or tablet (if working remotely)
- 🎒 Daypack for daily trips
Health & Safety Essentials
- 🧴 Sunscreen & mosquito repellent
- 💊 Basic first aid kit (painkillers, diarrhea meds, band-aids)
- 😷 Face masks (useful in crowded cities)
- 🚰 Reusable water bottle with filter
- 💳 Travel insurance card & local emergency numbers
Printable Vietnam Packing Checklist
Here’s a quick summary you can print and tick off:
- 🛂 Passport + Visa + Travel Insurance
- 👕 Seasonal clothes + Swimwear
- 📱 Phone + Charger + Adapter
- 🧴 Sunscreen + Insect Repellent
- 💊 First Aid Kit + Prescription meds
- 💰 Cash (USD/VND) + Credit Cards
- 🎒 Daypack + Travel Gear