Ha Long Bay, Vietnam: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Ha Long Bay, Vietnam? If you're planning to go to Ha Long Bay, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Ha Long Bay
- Important essentials for Ha Long Bay
- Activities for Ha Long Bay
- Ha Long Bay in January: weather and what to pack
- Ha Long Bay in February: weather and what to pack
- Ha Long Bay in March: weather and what to pack
- Ha Long Bay in April: weather and what to pack
- Ha Long Bay in May: weather and what to pack
- Ha Long Bay in June: weather and what to pack
- Ha Long Bay in July: weather and what to pack
- Ha Long Bay in August: weather and what to pack
- Ha Long Bay in September: weather and what to pack
- Ha Long Bay in October: weather and what to pack
- Ha Long Bay in November: weather and what to pack
- Ha Long Bay in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Based on the climate and weather in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam, the best time to go is December. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Ha Long Bay, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Ha Long Bay, Vietnam by month
January
January in Ha Long Bay is mild and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Pants or jeans
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ha Long Bay. 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.
Given current world events, Vietnam has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Take care to choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.
Travel neck support pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
February
If you vacation in Ha Long Bay during February, you are likely to find that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Pants or jeans
Light and heavy skirts
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ha Long Bay. 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.
Given current world events, Vietnam has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Take care to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
March
March here is mild. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Bug repellent
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ha Long Bay. 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 things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Vietnam has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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. Be careful to find the right kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
April
April in Ha Long Bay is a perfect temperature. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 70s F (low 20s C) to high 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Light skirts
Bug repellent
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of 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 airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ha Long Bay. 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.
Given current world events, Vietnam has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be careful to choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
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
May
May in Ha Long Bay is constantly hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also filters contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ha Long Bay. 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.
Given current world events, Vietnam has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
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 neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to find the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
June
In June, Ha Long Bay 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 Ha Long Bay, with several of the days of the month having rain.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you cool and protect you from the sun:
Sunglasses
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisTravel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ha Long Bay. 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.
Given current world events, Vietnam has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. Most adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money 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
July
July in Ha Long Bay is really hot and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and keep you cool.
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also cleans contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, 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 Ha Long Bay. 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.
Given current world events, Vietnam has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to get the correct type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
August
August in Ha Long Bay is really hot and very rainy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Sunglasses
Skirts
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can make you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Waterproof sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
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 belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ha Long Bay. 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 repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Vietnam has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you pick the correct type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs 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.
September
September here is consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from the sun:
Skirts
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also filters harmful contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ha Long Bay. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Vietnam has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to pick the right type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just 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 areas.
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
Our fave is this one
October
October in Ha Long Bay can be sweltering. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Waterproof sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ha Long Bay. 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 constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Vietnam has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs 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 countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
November
If you vacation in Ha Long Bay during November, you are likely to find that it is warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ha Long Bay. 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 nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Vietnam has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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 amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be careful to find the right type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.
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
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
Extra socks
Bug repellent
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Safety + Security
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.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Ha Long Bay. 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 bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Vietnam has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
What to do in Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
Ha Long Bay is arguably Vietnam’s most popular tourist destination. It boasts a breathtaking landscape that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Located in the northeastern region of Vietnam, this UNESCO World Heritage site features emerald waters dotted with towering limestone islands that are home to stunning beaches, hidden caves, and unique rock formations, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and cultural enthusiasts.
Here is a list of the top tourist attractions in Ha Long Bay:
1. Island Hopping: Ha Long Bay is home to over 1,600 islands, each with its own unique terrain, flora, fauna, and history. The best way to explore these islands is by taking a boat tour that will take you across the bay, allowing you to hop from one island to another while enjoying the serene waters, stunning landscapes and spotting various wildlife creatures.
2. Sung Sot Cave: This is one of the most magnificent caves in Ha Long Bay. With its grandeur and size, this cave is a true marvel of nature. Visitors can explore the winding passageways of the cave that are adorned with stalactites and stalagmites in various shapes and sizes.
3. Bai Tu Long Bay: Situated immediately east of Ha Long Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay is the hidden gem of the area. It offers visitors an opportunity to experience the same stunning nature while avoiding the tourist crowds of Ha Long Bay. The secluded bay is perfect for sailing, kayaking, swimming and fishing.
4. Titop Island: This tiny island is a firm favourite for tourists, with its pristine beaches and stunning view from the top, where visitors can climb up from an asphalt-paved path with steep stone steps to the peak of the island. The bay's turquoise waters are even more impressive from above.
5. Vung Vieng Fishing Village: Vung Vieng is a small fishing village located in the heart of Ha Long Bay. It is home to floating fishing villages, where visitors can observe the fishermen and their way of life, and even take part in fishing methods used in the bay.
6. Cat Ba Island: While not directly a part of Ha Long Bay, Cat Ba Island is nearby and well-worth the trip. This Island is Vietnam's largest island located in the heart of the Cat Ba Archipelago, donning one of the most beautiful and scenic bays in Vietnam. Visitors can enjoy the Island's various attractions like the National Park, beaches, as well as bars and restaurants.
In conclusion, Ha Long Bay is a must-visit place in Vietnam, with various exciting and beautiful tourist sites to see. There are numerous activities you can enjoy in the bay, from island hopping and beach visits to exploring caves and fishing villages. If you are planning to visit Vietnam, make sure you include Ha Long Bay on your itinerary.

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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