Planning your Vietnam adventure? Preparing for Vietnam can be overwhelming given its diverse landscape and climate, demanding a well-thought-out packing list. During our trip we experienced sweltering heat in bustling cities to chilly mountain days, so versatile packing is key. Ensuring you’re equipped for all seasons, we’ve categorized essentials, from picking the right travel bags to packing diverse regions & climate-specific clothing for men and women, organizing your gear to electronics, and essential documents. Be ready for anything this incredible country throws your way!
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Quick Vietnam Trip Planning Essentials
VISA
Vietnam requires a visa for citizens of certain countries. Make sure to check the visa requirements on ivisa.com for your nationality before you go.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Consider getting travel insurance from Heymondo when traveling to Vietnam. It’s our top recommendation for comprehensive and trustworthy coverage. Get 5% OFF through our link.
FLIGHTS
Discover the best flight deals to Vietnam on Skyscanner.
INTERNET
Airalo eSIM lets you stay connected as soon as you arrive at your destination. Use promo code NEWTOAIRALO15 for 15% off any eSIM (for new Airalo users only).
ACCOMMODATION
Browse Booking.com or Agoda to discover budget-friendly hostels, guesthouses, or hotels.
TRANSPORT
Ready to travel to your next destination in Vietnam? Book your bus or train tickets via 12go.Asia.
WHEN TO GO
Late February to April (spring shoulder season) for cooler and overall dry weather.
TOURS & ATTRACTIONS
For booking the best & cheapest city tours and day trip excursions, check out GetYourGuide or Viator.
LANGUAGE
Basic English is spoken in major cities, but knowing basic Vietnamese comes in handy! Recently we have been loving the Ling App to pick up some language basics.
ONLINE PRIVACY
Safeguard your online activity and digital privacy when using public Wi-Fi abroad by using ExpressVPN. Get 3 months FREE when getting a 12-month plan with our link.
Key packing list tips for Vietnam
When you’re getting ready for your Vietnam trip, it’s crucial to think about a few key factors that will affect your packing list. Consider the specific regions you’ll be visiting, the weather during your stay, and the activities you have planned. Vietnam is a big country with different landscapes and climates, so packing smartly will help you make the most of your adventure. Below are the main factors to keep in mind when packing for Vietnam:
Which places do you want to visit in Vietnam?
Planning your Vietnam packing list starts with thinking about where you want to go. Vietnam is huge, and each region has its own weather quirks. So, it’s a good idea to dig into some research about Vietnam, determine the places you’re keen to visit and decide on the cultural or outdoor activities you want to dive into. Check out our Vietnam Travel Tips for a helpful guide that takes you through the whole process of planning your perfect Vietnam trip. We also prepared a full 3-week Vietnam itinerary which you can practically take over! The only thing left for you to do is book accommodations and transport.
When do you want to visit Vietnam?
Planning your Vietnam packing list can get a bit tricky as it involves considering the country’s diverse weather and seasons. Vietnam’s geography, stretching from north to south, creates varying climates. Tropical weather prevails, with hot, humid summers and cooler, wetter winters. Whether backpacking from north to south or vice versa, packing versatile clothing is crucial.
While Vietnam is a year-round destination, December- February is generally optimal. Monsoon season spans April to October, with March and April being the hottest months. Lightweight, breathable clothing, layers, and comfortable shoes are essentials. Even in the dry season, anticipate rain.
Vietnam climate for specific regions:
- Northern Vietnam (Ha Long Bay, Sapa, Hanoi): Winter (November-April) averages around 20ºC/70ºF; summer is May-October, with the wettest months in July-September.
- Central Vietnam (Hue, Hoi An): January-July is hot and dry, around 30ºC/90ºF; the wettest months are October and November.
- South Vietnam (HCMC, Mekong Delta): Fluctuating between wet (May-November) and dry seasons (November-April), with July and August being the wettest. Year-round temperatures hover around 30ºC/90ºF.
Which activities are you planning for Vietnam?
Consider your planned activities when preparing your Vietnam packing list. Pack swimwear for beach outings, comfortable shoes and lightweight clothes for cities, and rain gear and hiking shoes for northern treks. If you’re heading north in winter, bring warm layers like thermal wear and a hoodie. For the northwestern highlands, like Sapa, where temperatures can reach zero, pack accordingly, considering the lack of internal heating.
If your journey focuses on the southern regions, especially for beach activities or a getaway to Phu Quoc Island, your wardrobe will differ. Tailor your clothing to the specific experiences you’re seeking.
For visits to temples and historical sites, there’s no strict dress code, but conservative attire is respectful. Women may consider a scarf to cover the shoulders, and men should opt for long, lightweight pants. Given Vietnam’s leaning towards conservatism, dressing modestly is a wise choice.
How long are you planning to travel to Vietnam?
The length of your trip will naturally impact how much clothing you pack. For a one-week stay, you’ll need less than you would for a month-long trip. However, as we’ve mentioned throughout this post, try not to overpack, as Vietnam has plenty of places where you can easily get laundry done. The clothing suggestions below are based on trips lasting three weeks or more, with occasional laundry stops. In our opinion, three weeks in Vietnam gives you the perfect opportunity to explore the country in-depth, from the North to the Central and Southern regions. Be sure to check out our 3-week Vietnam itinerary, which highlights the must-see spots along with a few off-the-beaten-path adventures for a real taste of Vietnam!
Don’t overpack & think in versatile layers
When packing for Vietnam, avoid overpacking. Laundry services are widespread and affordable, so you can easily get your clothes cleaned anywhere you go. Think in versatile layers, especially if you’re traveling from the north to the south, where temperatures vary. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothes that you can layer are perfect for Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries like Cambodia, Laos, and Thailand.
10 Key points for your Vietnam packing list:
- Opt for lightweight, quick-drying materials suitable for the hot and humid climate.
- Less is more – pack efficiently for easy mobility in the warm weather.
- Laundry facilities are accessible in most places.
- Carry a few sarongs for temple visits, covering shoulders and knees.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
- Stay organized with packing cubes.
- Roll your clothes in packing cubes for efficient use of space.
- Consider using a backpack for flexibility if you plan to visit multiple places.
- Leave luxury or valuable items behind.
- Save space for souvenirs and treasures along the way.
1. Choosing the right travel bag for Vietnam
When it comes to deciding between a backpack and a suitcase for your Vietnam adventure, it truly comes down to personal preference. But let me share my firsthand experience, I strongly recommend a backpack! Navigating Vietnam’s bustling streets can be a real challenge; sidewalks are packed with motorbikes, and crossing the street can feel like an adventure by itself. Add in Vietnam’s uneven pavements, and you’ll quickly realize that going too big or heavy with a suitcase might not be the best idea, especially when climbing stairs in guesthouses or hostels.
That’s why we advocate for backpacks; they offer greater mobility, a crucial asset in Vietnam’s dynamic environment. Drawing from a decade of exploring Southeast Asian countries, we’ve compiled a list of backpacks that we’ve personally put to the test. Vietnam demands a fair amount of walking, and your backpack should be sturdy and comfortable – essential for buses, trains, and those moments when your luggage is snugly squeezed to make room. So, when it comes to brand, size, and quality, choose wisely; you want your backpack to accompany you on many journeys to come! We are big fans of the German brand, Deuter. We’ve been using their gear for years, and it’s never let us down. An alternative, well-known travel bag brand is Osprey.
💡 TIP | If you find yourself torn between the backpack and suitcase dilemma, fret not! There are convertible backpacks that seamlessly transform into either a backpack or a wheeled suitcase, providing the best of both worlds. (Also see: Osprey Women’s Wheeled Travel Pack)
Woman Travel Backpacks
Deuter AVIANT VOYAGER 60+10 SL – With my height of 175 cm (or 5’7″), the 60L capacity of this backpack feels just right and perfectly proportioned. Specifically designed for the female anatomy, it features a VariQuick back adjustment system for a customizable fit. The generously padded back system and straps ensure ultimate comfort, even during extended journeys. The integrated 10L daypack adds convenience. What sets it apart is the dual access points – both from the front and the top – along with separate bottom and lid compartments. The included transport cover at the bottom doubles as a rain cover.
Osprey Fairview 55 – For enthusiasts of the popular American brand Osprey, the Osprey Fairview 55 is tailored for women and comes with an adjustable torso fit. It intelligently separates into a main backpack and a smaller, detachable daypack, which can be either attached to the larger pack or worn on the front for easy access. The large front panel allows straightforward access to the main compartment. If you need additional space, consider the Osprey Fairview 70 for more packing room. And for times when you want to streamline, the back panel harness can be conveniently stowed away.
Men Travel Backpacks
Deuter Aviant Access Pro 60 + 10L – Moritz’s choice in Deuter shares some similarities with its Osprey counterpart. Featuring a single, generously sized main compartment accessible from the front, this backpack offers a more suitcase-like feel compared to the traditional top-loading style. This design makes organizing and packing belongings a breeze, with handy side pockets and a dedicated shoe compartment inside. The exterior showcases a spacious pocket that houses the included 10L daypack with a comfortable, padded back. It can also be securely attached to the shoulder straps when needed. The entire back panel harness can be neatly stowed away, providing easy transport and a sleek, streamlined look.
Osprey Farpoint 40 – An excellent alternative to the Deuter for men. Like the Deuter, it offers a spacious main compartment accessible from the front, ensuring easy access to your belongings. However, it lacks the additional side pockets found in the Deuter, which can be quite handy. Additionally, it doesn’t feature an adjustable strap system in the back for a customized fit. Similar to the Deuter, it does come with a practical cover to neatly stow away the straps during transport.
The Osprey Farpoint 40 is designed for a compact travel experience. If you need more space, there’s the option of the Osprey Farpoint 70L, complete with an extra attached daypack for added versatility.
Smaller daypacks for daily adventures
In addition to our primary travel backpacks used for holding clothes and which get checked in during flights, we each bring along a compact daypack that stays with us on board. This smaller pack is dedicated to safeguarding our valuables and personal items, such as laptops and camera gear.
Deuter Giga 28L – With ample capacity and well-designed compartmentalization, this Deuter daypack is perfect for day-to-day use in Vietnam. If Sapa is on your Vietnam itinerary, where trekking through remote villages is likely, a smaller daypack with padded straps and room for essentials like water and snacks becomes essential.
Osprey Daylite Plus – As an alternative to the Deuter, this Osprey one is a solid choice if you want a versatile pack for both travel days and city exploring. It has a padded laptop sleeve, roomy compartments, and mesh side pockets that are super handy for water bottles when you’re out in the heat. The straps and breathable back make it comfortable, whether you’re wandering around Hanoi’s Old Quarter or hopping on a scooter in the countryside.
Deuter Speed Lite 13L – Lightweight and compact, this daypack is ideal for shorter trips when you just need the essentials. There’s enough room for water, snacks, and a rain jacket, perfect for hikes, scooter rides, or beach days. A bottle fits neatly in the side pocket, and a small compartment keeps your phone or keys safe while you’re on the go.
Our favorite camera bag
WANDRD PRVKE 21L – Our second daypack in the lineup is the WANDRD PRVKE 21L, accompanied by their removable camera cube tailored specifically for safeguarding camera equipment. This pack boasts discreet compartments for neatly storing smaller items, including a hidden passport pocket at the back. With side access for convenient retrieval of your camera on the go, the camera compartment opens from the back, providing a convenient overview of your belongings. Additionally, there’s an expandable section at the top to keep personal items separate from your camera gear.
2. Organizing and protecting items
➤ Packing cubes
Efficiently organizing your clothes in your backpack becomes a breeze with packing cubes — a game-changer for your Vietnam packing list. Say goodbye to chaotic searches for specific items; allocate each cube for a specific category, whether it’s t-shirts, bottoms, or socks.
💡 Vietnam Packing List Tip | Roll your clothes and arrange them side by side in your packing cubes, maximizing space even further.
➤ Luggage locks
Ensuring the safety of your belongings on the go is crucial, making luggage locks an absolute essential on your Vietnam packing list. They prove handy in situations where securing your backpack in a locker isn’t an option and are a must-have for air travel.
➤ Dry Bag
For water-related activities in Vietnam, a dry bag is a smart addition to your packing list. Keep your belongings safe and moisture-free, and opt for one with a waterproof phone case for capturing beach moments. Considering Vietnam’s climate and occasional downpours, a dry bag is invaluable.
➤ Backpack Covers
Extend the life of your larger backpack by adding a rain cover. If you’re contemplating a motorbike adventure on the Ha Giang Loop, a backpack cover will be a true lifesaver.
➤ Anti-Theft Bags
Enhance security, especially in hostels, with a Pacsafe bag—an anti-theft bag designed as a “portable safe.” Integrated stainless steel wire mesh adds resistance to cutting, providing a compact, lightweight solution for safeguarding valuables.
➤ Cross-Body Bag
Include a cross-body bag next to your big backpack and daypack for on-the-go essentials like your phone, wallet, and small items. It’s perfect for evenings or when you prefer not to wear a backpack. (Also see: Cross-body bag for her)
➤ Carabiners
Carabiners are yet another handy and versatile addition to our travel gear arsenal. They typically find a home on our bags, ready to link items together or secure a water bottle or camera to your backpacks for hands-free convenience.
➤ Travel Document Organizer
While not a strict necessity, a travel organizer streamlines the check-in process by keeping crucial documents like passports and boarding passes neatly together.
➤ Electronic Cable Organizer
For travelers with multiple chargers and cables, this electronic cable organizer is a game-changer. It fits into smaller daypacks, providing a tidy home for cables, chargers, SD cards, and portable chargers, eliminating the hassle of tangled cables.
➤ Laundry bag
Include a laundry bag to separate dirty clothes from clean ones. With laundry services being affordable in Vietnam (around USD 1 per kilo), it’s an efficient way to keep your backpack organized.
3. Clothes packing list for Vietnam
When deciding what to wear in Vietnam, consider two essential factors: the weather and the culture. Vietnam typically boasts warm and humid conditions year-round. Opt for light and breathable fabrics like cotton or linen for your Vietnam packing list, ensuring comfort in the heat. Choose versatile pieces that mix and match easily, and dry quickly. Avoid overly tight or synthetic materials that may feel uncomfortable in the warmth.
Depending on your itinerary, strike a balance between cool and warmer clothing. For destinations like Sapa or mountainous regions, include a few warm layers. If you’re exploring southern or central areas, your favorite shorts, rompers, skirts, summer dresses, and t-shirts will suffice.
Keep in mind that covering up is mandatory when visiting temples, and locals generally dress modestly. Vietnamese culture leans towards conservatism, so avoid skimpy outfits to respect local norms. While laundry is affordable in Vietnam, consider leaving your favorite clothes at home to prevent any risk of damage.
Below, you’ll find a suggested packing list for Vietnam, tailored for both men and women.
What to Wear in Vietnam – Women’s Packing List
- 3 dresses – two long dresses and one short dress
- 1 long skirt
- 2 pairs of shorts – Active shorts, Denim Shorts or Linen shorts
- 2 Loose-fitted long pants – opt for linen or a flowy pair
- 1 pair of leggings – Perfect for colder areas, ideal for hiking, and doubles as loungewear
- 4 tank tops or light shirts
- 2 lightweight shirts with sleeves (I like to use these to cover up at the beach or for temple sites)
- Long-sleeve base layer – Perfect for colder flights, loungewear on overnight train rides, and hiking in cooler regions
- 7 pairs of underwear (as mentioned, you can easily do laundry in Vietnam)
- 1 Sports Bra
- 2 Bralettes
- 2 Bikinis
- A cap for sun protection, especially essential for hiking & to prevent heat stroke
- 1 pair of sunglasses
- 2 lightweight cotton scarves (in fun colors) – For covering up at temples and sun protection with sleeveless tops
- 5 pairs of socks + 1 pair of trekking socks (Falke is a favorite!)
- Comfortable lightweight sneakers for everyday exploring (avoid flipflops for uneven and dirty streets in Vietnam)
- Birkenstock sandals for comfort, especially in smaller towns
- Fleece or hoodie – For comfort on train rides and essential for visiting Northern Vietnam
👉 Everything fits nicely into my Deuter AVIANT VOYAGER 60+10 SL backpack. Rolling and stuffing your clothes inside packing cubes saves a ton of space & keeps you organized!
Optional items for women:
- Lightweight Rain Jacket – We skipped rain jackets during our first March trip in the dry season and only carried foldable ponchos. We didn’t end up needing them then, but on our latest trip to Northern Vietnam in 2025, we really wished we had packed one. A rain jacket is super useful on motorbike trips, not just for sudden showers but also as a windbreaker to stay warm.
- Long pants – If you’re planning to spend a lot of time in Northern Vietnam, it’s smart to bring a pair of jeans or cargo pants. On our last trip, we mainly stayed in the north, and even though it was March, Hanoi turned out colder than expected. We were really glad we had packed some warmer clothes!
- Hiking Shoes (lightweight and low cut) – Everyday sneakers worked well for us, but for hiking in the north, you might want to bring hiking shoes. If you’re in the market for hiking shoes, Salomon is a brand we recommend for extra support, excellent grip, and stability on challenging surfaces like pebbles and gravel. These shoes are also equipped with a GORE-TEX membrane, ensuring waterproof protection – a valuable feature in case of sudden rain showers or muddy areas.
- 1 pair of comfy flip-flops – While not a necessity in Vietnam, consider bringing them if you plan on hitting the beaches in Phu Quoc or Nha Trang.
What to Wear in Vietnam – Men’s Packing List
- 3 pairs of shorts – a pair of cotton shorts, linen shorts & athletic shorts
- 1 pair of hiking pants – Moritz recommends convertible cargo pants from North Face, perfect for both long and short wear, and especially suitable for hiking in colder areas.
- 1 pair of long trousers – For temple hopping and cities, a comfortable alternative to jeans.
- 6 T-shirts, a combination of cotton T-shirts and dri-fit sports T-shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Casual sleeved shirt
- 1 Warm Fleece or hoodie (needed for hiking in the North of Vietnam and to be comfortable on transport)
- Lightweight sneakers – Our personal favorites are the ones from Adidas.
- Birkenstock Sandals – A comfortable option for exploring towns and temple hopping all day.
- Cap for sun protection – Essential, especially for hiking, to prevent heatstroke.
- 1 pair of Sunglasses
- 2 pairs of swimming shorts
- 7 pairs of underwear
- 7 pairs of socks – Highly recommend bamboo ones, plus 1 pair of trekking socks from Falke
👉 Everything fits into our Deuter Aviant Access Pro 60 + 10L. Use the roll and stuff method inside packing cubes for extra space.
Optional items for men:
- Light waterproof rain jacket – If you’re traveling during the rainy season, to regions like Sapa or doing the Ha Giang Loop, consider packing one.
- Hiking Shoes – Moritz recommends low-cut ones from Adidas for Southeast Asia, especially with Gore-tex. Advisable if you plan on hiking in Northern Vietnam.
- Flip Flops – Only necessary if you’re heading to the beach; otherwise, we don’t really see the use.
- Long pants – Besides the convertible cargo pants I already mentioned, it’s worth packing a pair of jeans if you’re heading north. The weather can be cooler depending on the season. On our latest Vietnam trip in March 2025, Hanoi was surprisingly cold and cloudy the whole time. We were really glad to have jeans with us!
4. Electronics packing list for Vietnam
Traveling with electronics can enhance your journey, and while we, personally, carry an array of gadgets for work and photography in our fully equipped WANDRD PRVKE 21L backpack, we acknowledge that not everything we carry is essential. For those seeking a streamlined experience, we’ve curated a list of essential and enjoyable electronic items to make your travel easier and capture your adventure effortlessly.
General electronics packing list for Vietnam
Beyond the essentials of your phone and charger, consider these electronics to make your Vietnam trip more convenient and enjoyable:
➤ Portable Charger / Power Bank
A reliable power bank is a must for on-the-go charging, ensuring your phone stays charged for navigation, taking pictures, or a full day of exploration. The Anker portable charger we recommend provides almost 5 full charges for your phone.
➤ Travel Adaptor
Vietnam’s power outlets are of types A, C, and D, with a standard voltage of 110/220 V and a standard frequency of 50 Hz. While travelers from America, China, Japan, Europe, or India may not need an adaptor, we always pack a universal adaptor to charge multiple electronic devices simultaneously.
➤ Kindle or E-Reader
While physical books can be heavy, a Kindle or e-reader lets you carry an entire library for on-the-road entertainment. Ideal for long bus or train rides, the latest e-readers feature a glare-free HD touchscreen, adjustable brightness, color temperature, and are often waterproof for durability.
➤ Headphones
Essential for entertainment during overnight trains, headphones are perfect for enjoying a travel playlist or listening to podcasts. Classic headphones or earbuds from Anker can enhance your auditory experience.
➤ USB Flash Drive
In situations where you need to print bus tickets or visas, a USB drive from Sandisk proves handy. Despite the technological advancements in Southeast Asia, having a USB flash drive can still be useful.
➤ Lightweight Laptop or tablet (optional)
While we encourage immersing yourself in the outdoors, a small tablet can be useful for handling emails, making bookings, or checking information. For a touch of entertainment, a tablet provides a just-right screen size. A travel-sized laptop might be more convenient if your tasks involve travel writing or photo editing.
Photography Packing List for Vietnam
Capturing the stunning landscapes of Vietnam and picturesque cities like Hoi An or Hanoi is a delight. While your phone can handle most moments, these gadgets add a fun touch to your photography packing list for Vietnam:
➤ Action Cam
An action cam, such as the GoPro Hero 10 (this is the one we use), can elevate your travel experience. Perfect for activities like motorbike tours, kayaking, or hiking, it captures underwater adventures and extreme environments. With wide-angle shots, raw format options, and compact size, it’s super versatile and a fun way to capture your travel. Consider an underwater case for deeper dives and a backpack mount for hands-free filming.
➤ Tripod or selfie stick
Solo travelers can enhance their photography with a versatile selfie stick that doubles as a tripod. The Joby Gorillapods offer compact, sturdy, and flexible options, allowing creative shots by attaching them to branches or fences. They work well with both phones and cameras.
➤ Camera
While phones suffice for most travelers, exploring photography further may lead you to consider an entry-level camera. Canon EOS Rebel T7/2000D is a budget-friendly DSLR, and for a lighter option, Sony Alpha A6100 or Sony α6400 are excellent mirrorless choices.
➤ SD Cards
Always carry spare SD cards to ensure ample memory space for your camera. SanDisk Extreme Pro SD cards, with a minimum of 128 GB, are reliable. Samsung Pro Plus Micro SD cards are also great options and are suitable for GoPro and drone use.
➤ Drone (optional)
While not essential, a drone like the DJI Mini 4 can provide a unique perspective of your surroundings. Compact and lightweight, it’s an enjoyable addition. Familiarize yourself with local regulations before flying. In 2024, it stands out as DJI’s smallest, lightest, and best-value mini-camera drone, hassle-free without additional registrations.
5. Practical travel gadgets & accessories
For a hassle-free and comfortable Vietnam trip, consider packing these essential accessories:
- Reusable water bottle: Bring a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste. Consider options like Life Straw or a filtered water bottle from GRAYL, turning any water source into safe, drinkable water.
- Ziplock bags: Always handy for storing snacks or dealing with leaking bottles.
- Elastic Bands or closable clips
- Duct tape: A versatile tool that comes in handy for multiple situations.
- Microfiber Towel: Perfect for the beach or when your accommodation doesn’t provide towels.
- Flashlight or head torch: Useful in poorly lit areas (when visiting caves) or when you need to find items in your bag without disturbing others at a hostel.
- Swiss army knife / Multi-tool: Store in checked-in luggage when flying, not in your carry-on.
- Sleeping mask: A game-changer for restful sleep, especially during overnight rides or in rooms without darkening curtains. We love these padded ones, really comfortable!
- Noise-canceling earplugs: Highly recommended for stays in hostels with thin walls.
- Travel journal: Carry a compact journal to reflect on experiences and chronicle your adventures.
- Waterproof watch: Moritz recommends a waterproof Casio watch, a perfect men’s accessory for the trip.
Secure reliable internet access for your Vietnam trip with Airalo. Airalo eSIM lets you stay connected as soon as you arrive at your destination. Simply install it on your eSIM-compatible smartphone before your journey. It’s easy, convenient, and affordable + you don’t have to keep switching SIM cards! Use our promo code NEWTOAIRALO15 for 15% off any eSIM (for new Airalo users only). Use AIRALOESIM10 for 10% off as an existing user.
6. Toiletries packing list for Vietnam
There are plenty of pharmacies and beauty supply stores in Vietnam where you can buy many products in case you forgot something at home or need a refill. However, some toiletry items may not be readily available everywhere and could be pricey, especially sunscreen. Exercise caution with creams or skincare products containing whitening agents. Here’s our toiletries packing list, categorized for both men and women, along with shared items.
💡 VIETNAM PACKING LIST TIP | We use travel-size containers for shampoo, body wash & lotion, etc. so we don’t have to bring the full-size bottle.
Products we share together:
- Toiletry Bag: We share this toiletry bag together. When traveling solo, this smaller toiletry bag is used.
- Sunscreen:
- For face: Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Face Lotion
- For body: Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion (oil-free, water-resistant, reef-friendly)
- Mosquito repellant
- Wet wipes: Handy to keep in your hand luggage.
- Hand sanitizer
- Tissues: Essential due to the lack of toilet paper in many Vietnamese restrooms.
- Travel Medical Kit: Includes bandages, plasters, sterile gauze pads, disinfectant, tweezers, scissors, a thermometer, and various medications (ibuprofen, paracetamol, loperamide, buscopan, motion sickness tablets).
Toiletries Packing List Vietnam for Women
- Refill Deodorant
- Shampoo & Conditioner
- Body wash
- Body lotion – if you have very dry skin like me, you will want to bring a travel body lotion, as this is also not easy to find in Vietnam and often holds whitening ingredients.
- Face wash & cream – I personally am a big fan of products by The Ordinary & Origins. Make sure to bring your favorite products, because again most facial products have whitening in them!
- Razor
- Hair Brush – Tangle Teezer Hairbrush has always been my go-to!
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Nail clippers & file
- Feminine hygiene products & tampons (not easy to find in Vietnam).
- Basic make-up: Keep it simple: some mascara, eyebrow pencil, and maybe some concealer. One product I highly recommend is this tinted moisturizer with SPF from Origins, I wear it on top of my sunscreen, no need for foundation. Check out the following small make-up pouch.
- Chapstick with SPF!
Toiletries Packing List Vietnam for Men
- Refill Deodorant
- Shampoo
- Body wash or soap bar – Moritz is a huge fan of soap bars these days instead of body wash
- Nail clippers
- Shaver/Razor
- Haircomb
- Toothpaste & toothbrush
7. Documents & Finances Checklist
- Passport – Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your arrival in Vietnam. Always carry a photocopy (digital & print) of your passport as a precaution against loss or theft.
- Visa – Check the current visa requirements for your passport nationality before your trip, as these regulations may change. Visit iVisa.com for comprehensive information on travel documents.
- Travel insurance – Prioritize travel insurance for peace of mind, especially if engaging in motorbiking or adventurous activities. Heymondo is a recommended provider; carry a printed copy of your insurance details in case of emergencies.
- Cards – Pack both debit and credit cards for financial transactions during your trip.
- Vaccination certificate – Keep a copy of your vaccination certificate.
- Cash Money – Carry euros and dollars; major cities often have exchange offices with favorable rates. Having some local currency upon arrival is useful for immediate expenses like bus fare.
- Printed Booking or Stay Confirmation – Bring a printed copy of your booking or stay confirmation, useful in areas without immediate internet access. Consider getting a local SIM card or an e-SIM from Airalo for reliable internet access.
- Emergency Numbers – Have a copy of your emergency contact numbers readily available.
- Extra passport photos – Keep extra passport photos handy for visa applications during your travels.
- International Driver’s License – If you are planning on renting a scooter or motorbike for doing a loop, you will need to present an International Driver’s License.
Final packing advice for Vietnam
As you start the packing process, lay out everything on your bed for a visual assessment. Personally, I enjoy envisioning potential outfit combinations, trying them on, and considering the occasions. Whether it’s hiking, beach outings, city explorations, or temple visits. This approach ensures you don’t overpack. With strategic planning and packing finesse, limiting yourself to the essentials listed above is entirely feasible. Remember, you’ll be packing and carrying your luggage frequently in a hot climate on uneven roads.
To provide a reference, here are the approximate total weights of our backpacks:
- Large backpack: approx. 13-15 kg
- Small daypack: approx. 5-7 kg
Consider purchasing some items in Vietnam:
- Clothing: Leave space for unique pieces you’ll find on your journey, especially in places like Hoi An known for tailored clothing.
- Tiger Balm: This magical cream is a must-have for soothing muscle aches and easing mosquito bites. Stock up!
Items to leave at home:
- Laundry line: Laundry services are affordable, rendering the need to bring your own obsolete.
- Mosquito net: Throughout Vietnam we never saw the use of bringing this as most stays are properly isolated and otherwise the stay itself might provide.
- Delicate clothing or jewelry – You’ll be on the move a lot, often in hot and humid weather. Clothes can wear out quickly on the road, so it’s best to leave fancy or delicate pieces at home.
Vietnam Travel Resources
TRANSPORTATION | For booking boat, bus, and train rides online, we recommend using the website 12go.Asia. This platform has been our go-to across Asia, saving us from the hassle of queuing at travel agencies or bus stations. If you’re traveling during peak season, consider booking tickets ahead, some routes in Vietnam can get booked out quickly.
ACCOMMODATION | Finding affordable places to stay in Vietnam is a breeze with Booking.com. It’s the ideal platform to discover budget-friendly hostels and hotels. We often compare prices with Agoda afterwards.
FLIGHTS | Discover the best flight deals to Vietnam on Skyscanner. We love that they highlight the days with the cheapest prices for a destination, and the ability to search by month or region for flexibility.
TRAVEL INSURANCE | When it comes to travel insurance, especially for backpacking in Vietnam, consider Heymondo. It’s our top recommendation for comprehensive and trustworthy coverage. Get 5% OFF through our link.
STAY CONNECTED | Secure reliable internet access for your Vietnam trip with Airalo. Simply install it on your eSIM-compatible smartphone before your journey. Use promo code NEWTOAIRALO15 for 15% off any eSIM (for new Airalo users only).
TOURS & ATTRACTIONS | For the best and most affordable city tours, day trip excursions, food tours, and cooking classes in Vietnam, check out GetYourGuide or Viator.
VISA ORGANIZATION | Before your trip, ensure you check the visa requirements for your passport nationality. Explore details on travel documents at iVisa.com.
ONLINE PRIVACY | Always safeguard your online activity and digital privacy when using public Wi-Fi abroad by using a VPN. We’ve trusted ExpressVPN for years! Plus, a VPN lets you stream Netflix shows from any country. Get 3 months FREE when getting a 12-month plan with our link.
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