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

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

Contents

When to go to Vietnam, Vietnam

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

What to wear/what to pack for Vietnam, Vietnam

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January in Vietnam is warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (low 20s C) to 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage 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 Vietnam. 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.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you get the correct type. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite 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

February

If you vacation in Vietnam during February, you might find that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vietnam. 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.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be careful to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply 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 appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

If you vacation in Vietnam during March, you will probably find that it is hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vietnam. 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.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you pick the correct kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

April here is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vietnam. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to get the correct kind. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

May

May in Vietnam is constantly hot. 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), although night temperatures can dip into the 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vietnam. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

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 voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

June

June in Vietnam is extremely hot. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vietnam. 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 additional 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 locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to get the correct type. Most adapters currently being sold are just 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 be sufficient for most places.

July

If you visit Vietnam during July, you are likely to see that it is really hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vietnam. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you find the right kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

August here is extremely hot. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vietnam. 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

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 voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. A lot of 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 fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

September

If you vacation in Vietnam during September, you might notice that it can be very hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vietnam. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

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 choose the right type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • 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

October

October in Vietnam is extremely warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vietnam. 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 luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck 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 huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to get the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

November

November in Vietnam is a perfect temperature. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) to high 70s F (mid 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 60s F (high 10s 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vietnam. 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.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you get the necessary type. Most adapters available are just 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 be sufficient for most countries.

December

December in Vietnam is warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) to 70s F (mid 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 60s F (high 10s 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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags 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 Vietnam. 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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Take care to get the right kind. A lot of adapters for sale now 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 should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

What to do in Vietnam, Vietnam

Vietnam is a country that boasts a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning scenery. It has become increasingly popular with tourists who want to experience a taste of Southeast Asia. From bustling cities to peaceful countryside, there are countless attractions that make it worth exploring. Here are some top tourist attractions in Vietnam that should be on your itinerary:

1. Ha Long Bay: Ha Long Bay, known as the “Bay of Descending Dragons,” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the Gulf of Tonkin. It’s famous for the thousands of limestone islands and islets protruding from the sea. A visit to Ha Long Bay is incomplete without taking a boat ride, kayaking, or visiting one of the floating fishing villages.

2. Hoi An Ancient town: Hoi An is an enchanting small town that has preserved its old-world charm over the centuries. The town is a harmonious combination of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural styles. Hoi An Ancient town is a must-visit because of its history, stylish shops, and excellent food.

3. Ho Chi Minh City: Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is Vietnam’s largest and most vibrant city. The streets of this city are alive with cultural energy and are a hub of activity. Some of the must-see spots are the War Remnants Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Cu Chi Tunnels.

4. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Vietnam’s most spectacular natural attractions. It is famous for the stunning caves such as the Paradise Cave and Hang Son Doong Cave, which is the world’s largest cave.

5. Hue Imperial City: Hue is the former imperial capital of Vietnam and boasts a wealth of history and culture. The Imperial Citadel is a sprawling complex of palaces, temples, and gardens, surrounded by an enormous moat. The Palembang Citadel is another highlight of Hue, a formidable fortress that saw much fighting during the Vietnam War.

6. Sapa: Sapa in the northwest of Vietnam is a haven for nature lovers, hikers, culture buffs, and photographers. The town is surrounded by stunning rice paddies and towering mountains, home to ethnic minority tribes such as the Black Hmong and the Red Dao. There are plenty of treks and homestays available to visitors, making it an excellent place to experience the local culture.

7. My Son: My Son, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, near Hoi An, is an ancient temple complex built by the Cham people between the 4th and 14th centuries. The complex is an important historical site and was once a spiritual center for the Cham people.

Vietnam has much to offer visitors, from its stunning natural beauty to its rich history and unique culture. These top tourist attractions in Vietnam are just the beginning of the country’s many treasures. A visit to Vietnam is a journey into one of Asia’s most fascinating and dynamic countries.

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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