DMZ, Vietnam: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for DMZ, Vietnam? If you're planning to go to DMZ, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to DMZ, Vietnam

Based on the climate and weather in DMZ, Vietnam, the best time to go is January. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for DMZ, Vietnam

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for DMZ, Vietnam by month

January

If you go to DMZ in January, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vietnam has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in DMZ. 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 little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to find the necessary kind. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive 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

February

If you visit DMZ during February, you may see that it is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vietnam has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in DMZ. 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 things recently, an AirTag can help you locate 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

March

March in DMZ is consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vietnam has travel 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 stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in DMZ. 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. It's important that you pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

April

April in this region is blindingly hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the high 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vietnam has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: 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 DMZ. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

May

Traveling to DMZ in May, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vietnam has travel 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in DMZ. 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

  • 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 penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Take care to get the correct type. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

June

If you go to DMZ in June, you will notice that it can be excruciatingly hot and dry with little rain. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the high 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vietnam has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: 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 DMZ. 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 little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. It's important that you pick the correct type. Most adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

July

July is a scorcher. Temperatures average in the high 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vietnam has travel 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in DMZ. 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 little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be careful to pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

August

August in DMZ is unbearably hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vietnam has travel 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in DMZ. 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 things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you get the right type. The majority of adapters on sale 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 be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

September

If you visit DMZ during September, you will probably notice that it can be sizzling. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vietnam has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can 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 DMZ. 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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. It's important that you pick the correct type. Many adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

October

October in DMZ is really hot and very rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vietnam has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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 DMZ. 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you get the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

If you go to DMZ in November, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vietnam has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in DMZ. 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you pick the necessary type. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

December

December here is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Vietnam has travel 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 DMZ. 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Take care to pick the necessary type. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

What to do in DMZ, Vietnam

Vietnam's Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is a historical and cultural hotspot that holds great significance for the country's history. Running roughly along the 17th parallel, it was created in 1954 following the Geneva Accords that ended the First Indochina War between Vietnam and France. For 20 years, the DMZ marked the division between North and South Vietnam during the Second Indochina War, commonly referred to as the Vietnam War. Nowadays, the DMZ is a must-visit destination for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and tourists looking for a glimpse into Vietnam's tumultuous past. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in DMZ, Vietnam.

1. Vinh Moc Tunnels

Located in Quang Tri Province, the Vinh Moc Tunnels are a massive network of underground tunnels that served as a shelter during the war. Stretching nearly 2,000 meters, the tunnels were built by the villagers to provide safety to the people of Vinh Moc during intense bombing campaigns. Visitors can explore the narrow and dimly lit tunnels, experience how the local villagers lived and see the sophisticated ventilation, kitchen, hospital and water system inside the tunnels.

2. Khe Sanh Combat Base

The Khe Sanh Combat Base was a U.S. Marine outpost that served as a pivotal battlefield during the Vietnam War. Today, visitors can walk around the former combat base, view the original airstrip, bunkers, supply buildings and the museum focused on the battle.

3. Ben Hai River and Hien Luong Bridge

The Ben Hai River is where the DMZ was created following the Geneva Accords in 1954. The river was designed as the division line between North and South Vietnam. The Hien Luong Bridge was built to connect the two sides and was later destroyed during the war. Today, a replica bridge stands on the site as a symbol of the reunification of the country.

4. Dong Ha

Dong Ha is the northernmost city in Quang Tri Province and the birthplace of many heroic and historical battles. The main attraction is the Museum of the 20th Century War, which showcases a diverse range of relics, including tanks, aircraft, artillery, and other military items used during the war. Visitors can also visit the Dong Ha market and chat with friendly local people, learning about their lives and culture.

5. Quang Tri Citadel

The Quang Tri Citadel is an ancient structure built in the 19th century, standing tall for more than two centuries. Visitors can explore the ruins of the fort and view its unmistakable architecture. The main attraction of the Citadel is its intact and impressive gate, surrounded by majestic brick walls that reflect the grandeur and resilience of the structure.

In conclusion, the DMZ is a historical and cultural landmark that should not be missed when visiting Vietnam. From the Vinh Moc tunnels to the Quang Tri Citadel, there are plenty of attractions to explore. The region provides a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam's past and allows visitors to pay respect to the country's rich history and vibrant culture.

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.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Laguna Niguel, California, United States of America, Bandol, France, Kunta Kinteh Island, Gambia, Kanniyakumari, India, Kristiansand, Norway, Yongning, China, Auray, France, Nanxun, China, Chełmno, Poland, Purcell, Oklahoma, United States of America, and Drenthe, Netherlands.