Vang Vieng, Laos: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Vang Vieng, Laos? If you're planning to go to Vang Vieng, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Vang Vieng, Laos

Based on the climate and weather in Vang Vieng, Laos, the best time to go is December. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Vang Vieng, Laos

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Vang Vieng, Laos by month

January

January for Vang Vieng dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vang Vieng. 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Take care to get the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Going to Padeng Cave and Ring Cave? You'll need:

February

February here dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate 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 Vang Vieng. 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 things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • 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 excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Be careful to choose the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to change 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

Going to Padeng Cave and Ring Cave? You'll need:

March

March is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Laos 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 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 little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vang Vieng. 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice 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, C, E and F. Take care to find the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Going to Padeng Cave and Ring Cave? You'll need:

April

If you go to Vang Vieng in April, you will notice that it is extremely hot. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vang Vieng. 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 constantly losing things nowadays, 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.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Going to Padeng Cave and Ring Cave? You'll need:

May

If you are traveling to Vang Vieng in May, you will notice that it is extremely hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • 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 Vang Vieng. 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 constantly losing luggage 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.

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 adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Be sure to choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Going to Padeng Cave and Ring Cave? You'll need:

June

If you are traveling to Vang Vieng in June, you will notice that it can be very hot. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vang Vieng. 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 prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. It's important that you find the correct type. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Going to Padeng Cave and Ring Cave? You'll need:

July

If you are traveling to Vang Vieng in July, you will notice that it is extremely hot. Expect it to rain most days. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vang Vieng. 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 belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • 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 neck pillow

    Our fave is 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, C, E and F. Be sure to find the correct kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

Going to Padeng Cave and Ring Cave? You'll need:

August

If you are traveling to Vang Vieng in August, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Expect it to rain most days. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 70s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vang Vieng. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is 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, C, E and F. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Going to Padeng Cave and Ring Cave? You'll need:

September

Traveling to Vang Vieng in September, you will notice that it is really hot. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Laos 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 Vang Vieng. 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 frequently losing bags recently, 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 things.

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Take care to pick the necessary kind. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

Going to Padeng Cave and Ring Cave? You'll need:

October

If you are traveling to Vang Vieng in October, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Laos 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 bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vang Vieng. 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 constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate 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

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Going to Padeng Cave and Ring Cave? You'll need:

November

November in Vang Vieng dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vang Vieng. 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 airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Be sure to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters on sale 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 should be sufficient for most places.

Going to Padeng Cave and Ring Cave? You'll need:

December

December here dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B, C, E and F. Be sure to find the necessary kind. Most adapters for sale now are simply plugs 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Going to Padeng Cave and Ring Cave? You'll need:

What to do in Vang Vieng, Laos

Located along the Nam Song River, Vang Vieng in Laos has become a tourist hub for all adventure seekers out there. From tubing on the river to caving and rock climbing, this town is an ideal destination for those who are looking for excitement and thrill. Vang Vieng is also the perfect spot for nature lovers and water enthusiasts who want to explore and enjoy Laos' natural beauty. Here's a list of the top tourist attractions in Vang Vieng that you should not miss:

1. Kayaking and Tubing on the Nam Song River

The Nam Song River is Vang Vieng's main attraction. This water body is famous for its crystal clear waters and stunning limestone karst formations. Kayaking and tubing down the river is a must-do experience for travelers. The ride will take you through some of the most picturesque landscapes with stunning views that are sure to leave you in awe.

2. Tham Poukham Cave

Tham Poukham Cave is another must-visit destination in Vang Vieng. This limestone cave is located about 3 kilometers from the town center and is accessible by foot or a short tuk-tuk ride. Inside the cave, you'll find several stunning rock formations that have evolved over millions of years. You'll also get to witness a natural pool that glows blue in sunlight that seeps through cracks and crevices.

3. Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon is one of Vang Vieng's best-hidden gems. It's a stunning, tranquil natural swimming pool with clean, blue waters. You can swim, lounge around its edges, and have a picnic with friends and family here. The lagoon also has an amazing rope swing that lets you plunge into the water from a height.

4. Tham Chang Cave

Tham Chang Cave is one of the most popular caves in Vang Vieng. The cave is about 1 kilometer from the town center and can be reached by foot or by a short tuk-tuk ride. Inside the cave, you will get to witness towering stalactite and stalagmite formations with small streams and waterfalls.

5. Rock Climbing

Rock Climbing in Vang Vieng is an adventure enthusiast's dream come true. The towering limestone karsts that make the town so picturesque provide climbers with ample opportunities to test their skills. With a qualified instructor and proper equipment, you can scale some of the most challenging cliff faces and take in stunning views.

In conclusion, Vang Vieng is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and travelers looking for excitement and relaxation. From kayaking and tubing to caving and rock climbing, the town's natural wonders have something for everyone. With its picturesque setting and friendly locals, Vang Vieng is sure to make your trip a memorable one.

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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