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What to pack for your trip to Vietnam? (Checklist 2024)
Get your suitcase ready for your trip to Vietnam, and make sure you do not forget anything. Read this Checklist and have a nice trip!
January 1, 2024
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If you are planning to travel to Vietnam, you may wonder what to pack for your trip. That is the reason why we have prepared this post: to guide you and help you so that you do not miss any important details, such as travel documents, international travel insurance, internet connection, what clothes you should pack, and more.
Essential things to take in your suitcase to Vietnam
Preparing your travel suitcase for Vietnam can be either easy or difficult, depending on what you propose. If you choose the first option, this list of essential things will be very useful for you since it has a checklist of things that you should not forget to enjoy this experience fully.
You can also take a look at this list for international travel.
Requirements and documents to travel to Vietnam
To travel to Vietnam, you will not only have to present your passport and ID, but you will also need a special visa, depending on your country of origin and the type of trip you will make. Below, we explain the entry requirements and the most common visa options, their differences, and where to apply.
Entry requirements for Vietnam
- For stays of 15 days, the entry of citizens who are on the list of countries with visa exemption is authorized, according to the corresponding regulations.
- Stays longer than 15 days: The visa application must be processed depending on the category (tourism, work, study, or business). It is recommended for long-term trips.
Types of Visa Applications
The Vietnamese visa is a type of travel document issued by competent authorities, that provides permission to travel and enter the country. The e-visa (or electronic visa) is a type of visa that allows the entry of foreigners by electronic means.
This visa is valid for 30 days, with a single entry. You can apply for the visa on your own or with the support of specialized Vietnamese agencies that offer online advice, such as My Vietnam Visa, Vietnam Visa, and Vietnam Immigration, only at the country’s main airports.
List of countries that support the Vietnamese e-visa
Andorra
Germany
Argentina
Armenia
Australia
Austria
Azerbaijan
Belgium
Belarus
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Brazil
Brunei
Bulgaria
Canada
Chili
China (does not apply to Chinese e-visa holders)
Cyprus
Colombia
Croatia
Cuba
Denmark
United Arab Emirates
Slovakia Slovenia
Spain
Federated States of Micronesia
United States of America
Estonia
Fiji
Philippines
Finland
France
Georgia
Greece
Hungary
India
Ireland
Solomon island
Iceland
Marshall Islands
Italy
Japan
Kazakhstan
South Korea
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Macedonia
Malta
Mexico
Moldova
Monaco
Mongolia
Montenegro
Myanmar (Burma)
Nauru
North Macedonia
Norway
New Zealand
Netherlands
Panama
Papua
New Guinea
Peru
Poland
Portugal
Qatar
United Kingdom
Czech Republic
Republic of Palau
Romania
Russia Samoa
San Marino
Serbian
Sweden
Swiss
East Timor
Uruguay
Vanuatu
Venezuela
To summarize, the USA, Australia, and the UK are not exempt from a visa, so, if you have one of these nationalities, you must process the e-visa to travel and enter Vietnam. The airline can confirm this information before authorizing boarding.
You may be interested in how to get an eSIM to travel in India or how to have one of the best Asian eSIM for travelers for when you visit several destinations in a single adventure!
Conditions for obtaining the Vietnam e-visa
- Foreigners outside of Vietnam.
- Have a valid passport.
- Foreigners in Vietnam
- Not be suspended under Article 21 of the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam.
Main airports in Vietnam
Hanoi-Noi Bai, Ho Chi Minh, Cam Ranh, Da Nang, Cat Bi, Can Tho, Phu Quoc, and Phu Bai) – 16 land border crossings (Mong Cai, Huu Nghi, Lao Cai, Nam Can, Cau Treo, Cha Lo, Lao Bao, Bo Y, Moc Bai, Xa Mat, Tinh Bien, Song Tien, Ha Tien, Tay Trang, Na Meo, and La Lay.
Note: You must consider this list of airports since you will not be able to enter Vietnam through any other border post that is not included.
Passport
Do not forget to include your passport and ID when you prepare your hand luggage, keep in mind that the passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into the country; otherwise, you could have problems at the time you apply for your visa.
We recommend that you carry all those documents that may be requested when going through controls in your hand luggage. It will avoid stressful situations.
Tip: Your passport must have at least two blank pages for stamps.
Options to have Internet in Vietnam
There are many ways to connect to the internet during your trip to Vietnam. So, you must include the alternative that best suits your needs and travel budget. Below, we share two of the most common alternatives.
eSIM to get internet in Vietnam
The eSIM card for Vietnam is a great company for travelers. With it, you will be able to connect to the internet, keep your WhatsApp number, and always keep the SIM card on the phone since it works without a plastic card. The activation process is very simple; however, keep in mind that it is only compatible with the latest generation of smartphones.
Getting it is very easy. You just have to enter an online store like Holafly, search for the destination, choose the unlimited data plan for your trip, and finalize the purchase, entering some personal information and the payment method you choose. It works similarly to other data plans, like the eSIM Singapore travel.
Advantages of Holafly eSIM for Vietnam
- Plans with unlimited data and flexible rates.
- Options for another 170 destinations, like Holafy’s eSIM for Dubai tourists.
- Customize your plan with the number of days you need for your trip.
- With an online purchase, you receive the eSIM by email.
- Configuration and activation manually or with a QR code.
- You keep your SIM card and WhatsApp number.
- 24/7 customer service and support.
- Online top up options are available on the web application.
SIM card for Vietnam
If your cellphone is incompatible with eSIM technology or you prefer conventional SIM cards, we recommend you buy SIM cards from local operators. They are also easy to get in physical stores, airports, and authorized points of sale.
With this card, you get a local mobile line to call, text, and browse with a good connection and speed. The only thing is that you must switch your SIM Card and keep it somewhere safe so you don’t lose it. Also, you must prepare to face problems with the language and culture to receive personalized attention.
Tip: Remember that you can also activate international roaming with your operator, but its price can be very high.
Translators to communicate in Vietnam
The official language of Vietnam is Vietnamese, so, you may feel that communication will be difficult for you. Here, we will tell you about the translators that will help you during your stay.
- iTranslate
- Vietnamese English Translator (APP)
- English-Vietnamese translation (App Store)
Local currency and bank cards
When you travel, money is one of the most essential things. Having enough to enjoy your trip is essential, so here we have prepared the most useful tips so that your stay in Vietnam is perfect.
The local currency in Vietnam
The local currency in Vietnam is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). When traveling to Vietnam, add a sufficient amount of money in euros and/or dollars to your list of things to carry with you. If you are carrying the equivalent of more than 5,000 USD (North Americans), you must declare it.
If you have to exchange money, you must consider a very important factor. Where can you do that? Many times we think about changing money before traveling, but do not trust yourself in this case; it is best to change when you arrive.
Fact: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommends that currency exchanges only be made in authorized banks, nonetheless, they usually have high commissions.
The Vietnamese currency, compared to the euro and the dollar, is highly devalued, so when exchanging money, you can end up with a large number of local bills (there are no coins). So, we suggest that you exchange your money little by little.
- Make the currency exchange for dongs of high denominations (100 and 200 Dongs)
- Do not rush to change large amounts of money, we recommend you change currency every two or three days.
- Carry a wallet that lets you have good control over your money.
- You can exchange euros for dongs at jewelry stores with good exchange rates.
Save your invoices; when you leave the country, it will be necessary for you to justify the purchases made, so store them carefully. They also help you keep track of your expenses.
Bank cards
You can only use your credit cards in Vietnam to make payments or withdrawals at ATMs and in certain places such as supermarkets, shopping centers, hotels, and more.
Although you can use them, we do not recommend that you use them very frequently, banks usually charge high commissions, but it can save you from trouble. You can pay with them in some hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers. In Vietnam, cash is always better.
How to enjoy a safe trip to Vietnam?
Travel insurance is a great friend in many situations that are out of our control. Before traveling, research, compare, and choose the best international travel insurance, including prices and features. This is one of the must-haves for your trips abroad.
International health insurance for Vietnam
There are things that you can solve on your trip with a first-aid kit, nevertheless, for cases in which you require medical attention, it is best to have trusted medical insurance. If you travel at a time when it would have been or is rainy, it will be more than necessary, since there are usually diseases caused by insect bites.
There are areas and seasons in which you may be more exposed to catching something. Traveling protected and prevented will be the best way for you to enjoy your trip.
Travel insurance with cancellation and return
Anything can happen while you wait for the day of your trip to arrive or while you are already enjoying the Vietnamese wonders, so do not forget the travel insurance in your suitcase.
Travel insurance with cancellation and return is not bought for fun, on the contrary, we would like not to have to use it and enjoy the entire trip without any problems. But there is a lot of money that you can save if something happens and you end up having to cancel your travels or return early. When buying your travel insurance, check in which cases cancellations cover you.
Tips for getting travel insurance
- Buy a travel insurance policy that allows you to cancel, and make sure that it covers these aspects.
- Before buying, make sure you do not have to make advance payments. In case you need, for example, medical attention, you should not worry about paying on your own and then being reimbursed.
- That the travel insurance contract has good medical coverage.
- Do not trust the cheaper options and contract insurance that is focused on the type of tourism that you will carry out.
First aid kit in your suitcase for Vietnam
Do not forget your first aid kit. If you need something urgent, you will have it at hand without sacrificing your travel time.
Some of the essential medicines or products in your medicine cabinet are:
- Mosquito repellent spray or cream (DEEP concentration greater than 30%)
- Antidiarrheal
- Oral serum
- Biodramina
- Antihistamines
- Band-Aids
- Antibiotics
- Antacid
- Aloe vera gel
- Alcohol
- Laxative
- Sanitizer
What you carry in your first-aid kit should meet your medical needs. So, check if there is a medical history that prevents you from taking any medication, and remember to bring a medical formula that supports or verifies the use of the medications that you must take on your trip.
Recommended vaccinations to travel to Vietnam
To enter Vietnam, no vaccination is mandatory, however, for prevention reasons, it is best to carry the vaccination certificate in your suitcase.
The vaccines recommended by the WHO and the Ministry of Health are:
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Tetanus – Polio
- Typhoid fever
- Covid-19
Fact: There is a risk of contracting malaria in rural areas of Vietnam, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union, and Cooperation.
What clothes to take in my suitcase to Vietnam?
The weather in Vietnam is usually warm. So, light clothing will undoubtedly be a great option. Pack comfortable and cool clothing, like the ones you usually wear in the summer.
Some clothes that we recommend for your trip are:
- Comfortable blouses of thin fabrics
- Summer dresses
- Sandals
- Shorts
- Flip-flops
- Long pants of soft fabrics (If they are wide, better)
- Swimsuits
- Hat
- Sunglasses
In the north of Vietnam, for the season from December to February, you must consider that the weather will be colder, so take that into account.
Ideal complements to take in the suitcase to Vietnam
Umbrella
The weather in Vietnam can have precipitation in some areas and seasons, so it is best to have an umbrella on hand, preferably one that does not take up much space, so it will be more comfortable for you to carry it. Also, it is quite useful for seasons with a lot of sun, strongly recommended in your suitcase for Vietnam.
Power bank or power bank
We recommend you take a power bank with a good load capacity. There are countless options on the market; however, think of one that offers you at least two full charges.
Packing cube
Packing cubes help you divide your things so that you can find them easily. They come in different sizes, and you can store everything depending on the size.
Important accessories
Universal power adapter: The types of plugs may be different from the ones you use in your country, so it is better to prevent yourself and bring a power adapter.
Headphones: Distract yourself during the flight with a movie, relax listening to the music you like, or answer calls are some of the most frequent uses.
Luggage scale: When you visit a place, you want to carry souvenirs in your suitcase, so it is great to have a hand scale, so you do not take risks carrying more.
Travel mask: When you are about to rest on the flight and encounter situations that prevent you from doing so, a travel mask at that time will be perfect.
Neck pillow: The trip will not be short, so be prepared with a travel pillow and choose the best airplane seat to make the flight experience much more comfortable and relaxing.
Luggage to travel to Vietnam
It seems obvious, but the choice of travel suitcase is an essential requirement for your trip. Remember that in this selection, you must consider many factors. You will need several suitcases for the hold of the plane, the cabin, and a personal bag if you plan a trip lasting more than two weeks.
What to bring in your hand luggage to Vietnam
The carry-on suitcase will be your companion throughout the trip, the journey from country to country, and it will also be a great ally in your tourist adventures. It works for everything. Let’s see what to take in your hand luggage:
Items that are of value that you must take care of or have on hand during your trip:
- Laptop: You can carry your laptop in your hand luggage, however, keep in mind that if you will not need it during the trip, it is best to put it in your cabin suitcase.
- Personal documents: passports, IDs, and visas are documents that we must have on hand, it is best to carry them in your hand luggage. Proof of your hotel reservations, tourist guides, and travel insurance.
- Plane ticket: If you have it physically, better keep it in your carry-on suitcase.
- Headphones: To watch a movie, listen to music, and relax.
- Power bank: Do not run out of battery, charge your cellphone anytime.
- Cash: Take your money in euros, when you arrive in Vietnam, you exchange some money for the day, exchanging currencies in the US, Australia or Canada for the Dong can be unprofitable or difficult.
- Your toiletry kit: You can carry the personal hygiene kit in your carry-on suitcase as long as you respect the quantities. If your trip is very long, take it in this suitcase.
- Mobile phone: Your mobile phone is undoubtedly essential, so take it in your carry-on suitcase so you don’t lose it at any time.
What to take in the cabin suitcase to Vietnam
The cabin suitcase can rescue you. Although we would not want it to happen to us to lose the hold suitcase, it may happen, so get ready so that this does not entirely ruin your trip.
- Several changes of clothes: Shorts, t-shirts, blouses, or whatever you prefer.
- A coat if you need it: Only if the season and area you are traveling to require it.
- Footwear: Some sandals, slippers, or something comfortable for you
- Your toiletry bag: Also, add a toiletry bag to your cabin suitcase with products such as hand and body cream, sunscreen, makeup if you use it, and lip moisturizer. Respecting quantities (100 ml)
- Items that are essential for you
It’s time to pack your suitcase for Vietnam, and get ready for a wonderful adventure! If you think there may be something else you should check, we recommend you review this list for international travel.
Frequent questions: What to pack in your suitcase for Vietnam?
The main thing is to wear comfortable and breathable clothing, especially on very hot days. Include clothing that covers your shoulders and knees if you visit religious temples.
Yes. The recommendation is to bring a type A or C plug adapter to charge electronic devices.
It depends on the type of trip you are going to make. For tourism, a suitcase that you can comfortably carry on your shoulders. In the case of bringing a suitcase with wheels, it is best to leave it in the accommodation, and it is recommended for longer trips.
Yes. Ideally, before traveling, you should exchange the currency you use in your country for Vietnamese dongs at exchange houses or banks
It is recommended to carry the vaccination certificate against COVID-19 to facilitate entry into the country, the health authorities can request it at any time. Also, the WHO recommends these vaccines: Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A and B, Tetanus-Polio, Typhoid Fever, Japanese Encephalitis, and Flu.
