Cat Ba, Vietnam: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

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Ready to pack for Cat Ba, Vietnam? If you're planning to go to Cat Ba, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Cat Ba, Vietnam

Based on the climate and weather in Cat Ba, Vietnam, the best time to go is December. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Cat Ba, Vietnam

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Cat Ba, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Cat Ba, Vietnam by month

January

Traveling to Cat Ba in January, you will notice that it is mild and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cat Ba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be careful to choose the right kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

February

February for Cat Ba is mild. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cat Ba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. It's important that you pick the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

March

March in this region is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cat Ba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Take care to pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

April

If you go to Cat Ba in April, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cat Ba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you pick the right type. Many adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

May

If you visit Cat Ba during May, you may notice that it is consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cat Ba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

If you are traveling to Cat Ba in June, you will notice that it can be sweltering and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cat Ba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to pick the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

July

In July, Cat Ba is constantly hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Cat Ba, with more than half of the days of the month having rain.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cat Ba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. It's important that you pick the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

Traveling to Cat Ba in August, you will notice that it is extremely hot and very rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cat Ba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be careful to get the correct type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

September

If you vacation in Cat Ba during September, you may find that it is extremely hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cat Ba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. It's important that you find the correct type. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

October

October in this region is really hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cat Ba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to choose the right kind. Many adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

November

If you go to Cat Ba in November, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cat Ba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to find the right type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

December in this region is mild and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Vietnam has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Cat Ba. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to get the correct type. Most adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

What to do in Cat Ba, Vietnam

Cat Ba is a must-visit destination for those who have a passion for adventure, wildlife, and stunning landscapes. Located in the Gulf of Tonkin in the north of Vietnam, Cat Ba is the largest island in Halong Bay. Known for its pristine beaches, dense jungle, and limestone cliffs, this sleepy island is dotted with traditional villages, fishing villages, and ancient temples.

If you are planning a trip to Vietnam and want to know the top tourist attractions in Cat Ba, here is a list of some must-visit places:

1. Cat Ba National Park

Cat Ba National Park is an ecotourism destination that covers over 15,000 hectares of forest and marine ecosystems. The park is famous for its diverse flora and fauna, including over 200 species of birds, 100 species of mammals, and thousands of types of plants. You can explore the national park on foot or by bicycle. The park has many trekking and hiking trails, including one that leads to the summit of Ngu Lam Peak, which offers stunning views of the island.

2. Lan Ha Bay

Lan Ha Bay is one of the lesser-known bays in Vietnam, but it is just as beautiful as its more popular neighbor Halong Bay. Surrounded by limestone cliffs and deep emerald waters, Lan Ha Bay is famous for its stunning beaches, untouched karst formations, and coral reefs. You can take a boat tour to explore the bay, go kayaking, or snorkeling.

3. Cannon Fort

Cannon Fort is a historical site in Cat Ba that was used to defend against the French and Americans during the Vietnam War. The fort is located on a hilltop above the town, providing panoramic views of the island, and Lan Ha Bay. You can learn about the history of the fort and climb on the old artillery.

4. Hospital Cave

Hospital Cave is an underground tunnel system that was used as a secret bunker and hospital during the Vietnam War. It is said to have been built in the 1960s by the Vietnamese military to house injured soldiers and military hospitals. Today, Hospital Cave is a popular tourist attraction, where visitors can explore the complex tunnels and rooms that were used as operating rooms, pharmacies, and living quarters.

5. Cat Ba Island Beaches

The island is famous for its stunning beaches like Cat Co Beach, Tung Thu Beach, and Monkey Island Beach. Cat Co Beach is the most popular beach in Cat Ba, and it has clear blue waters, white sand, and a range of sea-facing restaurants and bars. Tung Thu Beach is a secluded, hidden gem with turquoise waters and powdery sand. Monkey Island Beach is the perfect spot for an escape from the crowds, with its palm trees and tranquil atmosphere.

In conclusion, Cat Ba Island is a paradise for nature lovers, history buffs, and sun seekers. With its stunning natural beauty and unique cultural heritage, it is no wonder Cat Ba has become one of the most sought-after destinations in Vietnam. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Cat Ba Island is sure to offer something that suits your preferences. So, book your trip to Cat Ba Island now and experience the best of Vietnam's beauty!

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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