After carefully considering the advantages and disadvantages, it is widely acknowledged that Vietnam is an excellent choice for travelers. Like any other destination, there are a few essential items that can greatly enhance your trip and minimize any inconveniences. To prepare appropriately, please refer to the following checklist.
Top 10 items to bring when traveling to Vietnam:
The Essentials
Ensure you have your passport and visa with you at all times. It is advisable to keep a copy or scan of these documents in case of loss or theft.
Keep a hard copy of your travel health insurance information.
Bring sufficient cash, as many establishments in Vietnam only accept cash payments. While credit cards are accepted at some restaurants and travel shops, be aware that they often charge an additional 2-3% for international transactions. ATMs and banks are available throughout the cities if you need to withdraw cash. Currency exchange counters are also abundant, especially near tourist attractions.
Use money belts to safeguard your money, as petty theft can occur in any major city.
Suitable Baggage
Opt for soft case bags if you plan to travel by bus or train, as the overhead luggage compartments are often small. It’s important to note that domestic and regional flights may have high baggage rates, so using soft shell bags can help reduce weight and save money.
Carry a travel bag or backpack for short excursions, hiking, day trips, and shopping in the city. It should be spacious enough to hold water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any souvenirs you purchase. Choose a backpack that securely fits your body with thick straps to prevent thieves from cutting the straps and stealing your belongings. This is a common scam in Vietnam. Additionally, if you plan to embark on a motorcycle adventure tour in Vietnam, consider packing lighter luggage and arranging to secure your belongings on a motorbike rack. It is recommended to keep the weight under 15 kilograms.
Appropriate Clothing
Pack moisture-wicking clothes, especially if you’re visiting Ho Chi Minh City during the rainy season (June to November) or the year-round high temperatures of 25-35°C. Lightweight clothing is essential for this type of weather.
Carry a light raincoat or a plastic poncho to protect yourself from rain. Ponchos are commonly used by locals, particularly when cycling in the rain, making them a suitable choice for bike or motorbike trips across the country.
Appropriate Shoes
Bring comfortable walking shoes, as Vietnam’s cities, including Ho Chi Minh City, are ideal for exploring on foot. You may find yourself walking several kilometers per day.
If you plan to engage in outdoor activities or hike through forests, it is advisable to have appropriate activity shoes. If you forget to bring them, some hostels and hotels may offer shoes left behind by previous guests, but they may not be in your size. Please note that finding larger shoe sizes can be challenging in Vietnam.
Medications
Be aware that drug regulations in Vietnam differ from those in other countries. Over-the-counter drugs are generally affordable and readily available, but brand-name drugs such as Pepto Bismol and Tylenol can be quite expensive. If you prefer a specific brand, ensure you bring an ample supply.
If you require any specialized medications that may be hard to find in Vietnam, make sure to bring enough for the duration of your stay.
Bathroom Supplies
Carry toilet paper with you, especially during long bus rides, as many bus stop toilets do not provide toilet paper. While most hotels, hostels, and restaurants in the city have regular toilets, squat toilets without toilet paper are common at bus stops.
For feminine supplies, note that tampons are easy to find in Vietnam, but tampon availability may be limited.
Sun Protection
Due to the strong sun in Vietnam, it is crucial to have high SPF creams or sprays for adequate UV protection. Local residents often protect themselves by wearing long sleeves, hats, and using umbrellas. While long sleeves may not be comfortable in the heat, they can prevent sunburn.
Although fresh aloe vera is widely available in markets, bottled aloe vera gel can be more practical when traveling by bus or train, as it is not always feasible to use fresh aloe vera. Consider carrying bottled aloe vera gel for soothing sunburns.
Insect Protection
As mosquitoes can transmit diseases like dengue fever and malaria, it is important to have insect repellent containing Deet. While malaria is rare and mainly confined to rural areas, dengue fever is more prevalent.
To alleviate discomfort from insect bites, carry cortisone cream to prevent infections caused by excessive scratching.
Electronics
Remember to pack power banks and chargers for all your electronic devices. A pre-rechargeable battery pack can be useful during long bus and train journeys.
While most hostels and hotels have sockets that accommodate various plug shapes, the voltage in Vietnam is typically 220V. Consider carrying a shape converter if your plug type is not compatible with the sockets.
Smartphones or iPods are convenient to have, as WiFi is widely available in Vietnam. They can be used to make free calls or navigate with GoogleMaps, especially in Ho Chi Minh City. However, laptops may be cumbersome to carry and attract attention from potential thieves. When using your phone in public, exercise caution and keep it discreet, away from the street, as snatch-and-grab thefts can occur.
Relevant Information
Travel books can provide valuable information about hospitals, currency, embassies, and more. Keep in mind that the latest edition of a travel book may not always be up to date, and certain details such as restaurant or store locations and contact information may have changed. However, information about public service offices tends to be more consistent.
If you have any food intolerances, consider printing translation cards before your trip to communicate your dietary needs effectively.
Prior to your arrival, ensure you have the address, phone number, location, and map of your hotels, so you can provide this information to your taxi driver.
While many items are available in Vietnam, they may come at a higher cost. Packing the necessary items mentioned above will contribute to a relaxed and hassle-free stay!
