If you’re wondering what to pack for Vietnam, you’re not alone. With a diverse climate, long travel distances, and a variety of cultural expectations, packing smart can make or break your trip. Whether you’re exploring the cool highlands of Sapa, floating through Halong Bay, or strolling the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, having the right gear makes all the difference. In this guide, we’ll break down what to pack for Vietnam by category and help you navigate the must-haves and what to leave behind. You’ll be glad you did the heavy lifting upfront to get the most out of you South East Asian travel experience.
Clothes
Though you can generally expect warm and humid weather in Vietnam, the long, snaking length of the country with its 2,015-mile coastline, its unique microclimates, and diverse topography mean the weather differs vastly from one region to the next. As you travel from the tropical lowlands and irresistible beauty of Halong Bay to the limestone karts of Phong Nha and alpine peaks of the Tonkinese Alps, you’ll be grateful for a versatile wardrobe. The best rule? Dress for comfort, weather, and cultural respect.
Besides protecting yourself from the elements, it may surprise you to know that the Vietnamese are fairly modest about how they dress, so you would do well to follow their example and keep yourself covered, leaving the spaghetti straps and short shorts at home.
As always in tropical climates, loose and quick-drying are what stand between you being happy and dry, or soaked to the bone. There’s nothing quite like the water sloshing around in your trainers to make for an unpleasant afternoon of exploring. So if you ask us what to pack for Vietnam, these would be our recommendations.
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Vietnam Packing List for Women
- Loose-fitting dresses and trousers
Opt for breathable fabrics like linen or cotton. Midi-length skirts, culottes or wide-leg trousers are ideal as they have good airflow and are modest enough for temple visits. - Light long-sleeved tops
They help protect against sunburn, mosquitoes, and keep you covered in more conservative regions. Look for materials that dry quickly, especially during monsoon season. - Modest swimwear and a sarong
Great for beach days or boat excursions. A sarong is incredibly versatile—it works as a cover-up, towel, or shoulder wrap at religious sites. - Sturdy sandals and flip-flops
Sandals are perfect for long walking days, while flip-flops are easy to slip off at temples and in homes. Add trainers if you’re doing hiking or rural excursions. - Light fleece or jacket
Temperatures can drop if you’re heading to northern Vietnam or doing overnight train journeys, especially in winter. Pack at least one warm outer layer.
Vietnam Packing List for Men
- Quick-dry shirts and T-shirts
Choose moisture-wicking, lightweight fabrics. Neutral colours are better for staying cool in the sun. - Lightweight trousers or long shorts
Opt for knee-length or longer, particularly when visiting sacred sites. Convertible hiking trousers are handy if you’re heading into the countryside. - Button-up shirt
A short-sleeve button-up is both smart and comfortable—great for dinners or city walks. - Sandals and closed-toe shoes
Water-resistant hiking sandals are ideal for day tours, while trainers or casual shoes are good for urban wandering and long journeys. - Rain poncho or packable jacket
The rainy season can hit hard. A foldable poncho is a lifesaver and doesn’t take up much space.
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Accessories and Electronics
Once your wardrobe is sorted, turn your attention to the accessories and electronics that will keep you comfortable, connected and organised.
Sun hat and sunglasses
The tropical sun is no joke. A wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses should definitely be on your Vietnam packing list.
Universal power adapter
Vietnam has a mix of plug types, so bring an all-in-one adapter with surge protection to charge your phone, camera, and other devices safely.
Portable charger
Useful for long day trips or sleeper train rides where charging options may be limited.
Waterproof phone case
Protect your phone from sudden downpours or splashy boat rides in Ha Long Bay.
Small crossbody bag or daypack
Keep essentials close when out and about—opt for one with anti-theft zips if you’re navigating crowded markets in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
Health Items
Vietnam’s climate and conditions mean you’ll want to be prepared to stay healthy and comfortable during your travels.
Earplugs and eye mask
The industrious Vietnamese get going super early – and so do their scooters. So, if you’re looking for a peaceful morning lie-in it’s best you pack some earplugs. They will literally be a lifesaver after a long day of exploring.
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Vietnam’s sun can be brutal. High-quality sunscreen is a must. Reapply throughout the day, especially if you’re in the water or hiking.
Insect repellent
lthough Malaria isn’t common in Vietnam, Dengue fever occurs year-round in the destination. Besides the slight risk of Dengue, there’s no need to experience the discomfort of itchy bites so lather on the insect repellent morning and night. A DEET-based or natural repellent is essential for both urban and rural zones.
Hand sanitiser and wipes
Street food and market snacks are a big part of the adventure, so keep these on hand to clean up on the go.
Travel-size medical kit
Pack plasters, rehydration sachets, painkillers, and motion sickness tablets. Pharmacies are common, but not everything will be familiar or available in English.
What should I pack for 2 weeks in Vietnam?
If you’re travelling for two weeks, aim for a capsule-style wardrobe: mix-and-match pieces that work across different temperatures and settings. Think 3–4 tops, 2–3 bottoms, one dressier outfit, a jacket, and essentials like underwear and swimwear. Most hotels and homestays offer laundry services, so you don’t need to overpack. Pack one pair of sandals, one pair of closed shoes, and a compact rain layer. And don’t forget your travel essentials for Vietnam like a power bank, hat, and medical basics.
What am I not allowed to bring to Vietnam?
When finalising your Vietnam packing list, it’s important to avoid prohibited or restricted items. These include:
- Drugs or narcotics of any kind – Vietnam has strict penalties for drug possession.
- Pornographic materials – including certain magazines or media on your devices.
- Drones – require prior permission from the Ministry of Defence.
- Cultural artefacts or religious propaganda – especially anything that could be deemed offensive or controversial.
- Large quantities of medications – if you need prescription medication, bring a doctor’s note to accompany it.
For a full list of restricted items, check with your airline or official Vietnamese customs sites before departure.
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Planning what to pack for Vietnam is all about balance: staying cool, staying dry, and showing respect for local customs. With this Vietnam packing list in hand, you’ll be ready for whatever the road throws at you—from mountain mist to monsoon rain, motorbike chaos to tranquil temples. Ready to experience it all with ease? Explore our Vietnam tours and start planning your journey.
What are some of the essentials you’ve got on your packing list? Or perhaps you’d love to share your tips on how to dress in Vietnam? Let us know in the comments below!