What to pack for a holiday to Vietnam?

Weather and Climate

Depending on the time of year, Vietnam experiences three different climates in different regions of the country.

North Vietnam has a cold humid winter from December to February, a wet spring with rising temperatures from February to April, a hot rainy summer from May to the beginning of September, and a sunny pleasant autumn from September to November.

Central Vietnam is hot and dry from January to August and humid and wet with floods and typhoons from the end of September until the beginning of January.

South Vietnam’s dry, hot season begins in November and stretches until early May while the wet, hot season with floods and thunderstorms lasts from May to November.

Vietnam Packing List

When packing for your trip to Vietnam, make sure to include these things in your suitcase to ensure you’re ready for any event that arises while you’re on holiday:

Lightweight, breathable fabrics. You will definitely sweat in certain areas of the country so lightweight fabrics like cotton, linen, rayon, and chambray will help keep you cool and protect you from the sun. Also keep in mind bugs are attracted to darker colours, so if you come during the hot and rainy periods, maybe leave the little black dress at home.

The Vietnamese are not as conservative in dress as their neighbours, so do not worry about wearing shorts, tank-tops, bikinis, or dresses above the knee. The younger generation can be seen wearing Western-styled fashion – if they’re covered up, it’s not because of modesty; in fact, they are trying to protect their skin from the heat of the sun. The only time you must cover up is when visiting some revered places like the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and religious sites. If you’re just walking down the street, going to the beach, shopping, or doing a city tour, you can wear whatever you like!

Flip-flops/waterproof shoes. Rain can hit without warning and the streets flood quickly. Make sure your shoes don’t get ruined! An added bonus of wearing sandals is that when you enter someone’s home or a temple/pagoda, it’s very easy to slip out and back into your shoes.

Sun Protection. Whether it’s sunglasses, hats, or sunscreen, you will definitely need it.

A Sweater or Coat. The north of Vietnam can get chilly during the winter months of mid-November to early March. If you’re visiting this region, especially Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, or any of the mountainous regions, make sure to pack warm clothing even in the Spring or Autumn as the days are warm and the evenings very cold.

Bug Spray. Vietnam is a tropical destination with many types of creepy crawlies and insects. Especially during the summer months when it’s wet and rainy, dengue is prevalent, so make sure to pack bug spray.

Tissues. Vietnam is relatively clean, but sometimes the toilets can leave something to be desired. When you go on tour, make sure to carry your own tissues as toilets do not get checked for guest amenities as frequently as in Western countries.

Medication. It’s fairly easy to buy painkillers, anti-histamines, sleeping pills, relaxants, and other medication in Vietnam due to the prevalence of pharmacies throughout all cities and towns. If you go to the pharmacy, make sure to double-check what the person gave you to ensure what you have been given is what you actually need. The pharmacist will not know the brand name but will know the main chemical. If you are on more serious medication like Ritalin, Adderall, or antidepressants, keep in mind these are not sold in the country, even with a prescription, so make sure you bring enough to last your whole holiday.

Well, what are you waiting for? Go on and get started on packing your bags!