What To Pack For Vietnam: The Only Checklist You’ll Ever Need

Visa, passport, clothes - check. But what about the essentials no one mentions? Here’s the only Vietnam travel checklist you’ll ever need.

When planning a trip to Vietnam, the basics are easy to remember: a visa, a passport, and a few sets of clothes. But what about the little things no one warns you about, like must-have apps and etiquette hacks? There’s definitely more to pack than you think. This checklist covers both the obvious and the often-overlooked essentials, so you’re fully ready to explore Vietnam.

1. Visa and Travel Documents

Visa.  Unless you're one of the lucky few with a visa exemption, you'll need a visa to enter Vietnam. While that’s no surprise, here’s a common mistake travelers make: forgetting to print a hard copy of their e-visa. Digital versions aren’t accepted at immigration, so always print it out and keep it handy. 

Passport. Your passport is your golden ticket, and it should always go hand in hand with your visa. Make sure it’s valid for at least six months from your date of entry, and that it has at least two blank pages for those beautiful stamps.

Travel Insurance. Technically, you might not always be asked for travel insurance. But realistically, skipping it is a bad idea. Having insurance can save you from a major financial headache (lost luggage, sudden illness, motorbike adventures gone wrong, etc). It’s not always required, but honestly, why risk it?

Copies of extra documents. Return or onward flight tickets, hotel bookings, financial proofs, etc. Make copies of every travel document you prepared for the trip. Print them out, save them on your phone, email them to yourself - whatever works. If you ever lose your passport or need to show your visa somewhere without Wi-Fi, you’ll thank yourself later.

2. Cash

Even though Vietnam is moving toward digital, cash is still king, especially in smaller towns, street markets, food stalls, and mountainous areas. Many places don’t accept foreign cards, or they might accept them but with steep fees, or not reliably. So bring enough cash with you to cover the small purchases, just in case no other options are available wherever you are.

3. Meds

If you take prescription meds, make sure to bring enough of them and a doctor’s note or prescription, especially if you're bringing anything that could be considered a controlled substance, for your entire trip. While some medications are available over the counter in Vietnam, the exact brand or dosage you need might not be.

Also, it’s a good idea to carry digestion meds. Vietnamese food can be deliciously adventurous, but unfamiliar ingredients or spices may not always sit well with your stomach. Label everything clearly and keep it in its original packaging to save you hassle at security gates and pharmacies alike.

4. Lightweight and Modest Clothing with A Pair of Slip-ons 

Shopping for clothes in Vietnam is pretty financially reasonable, but you don’t want to end up changing your entire wardrobe just because you forgot to check the weather. The heat and humidity can be intense, so pack lightweight, breathable clothes to stay comfortable.

At the same time, keep things modest, especially if you plan to visit temples or religious sites, where covering shoulders and knees is a must. Think breathable fabrics that respect local customs but keep you cool and ready to explore. Together with that, a good pair of slip-ons is a must. You’ll be walking a lot, and take your shoes off just as much when entering homes or temples. 

5. Sunscreen, Umbrella, and Portable Fan

The weather could be the same reason why you’d want to bring sunscreen, an umbrella, and a portable fan with you. Vietnam’s climate is sometimes unpredictable: one moment you’re soaking up the sun (warning: it burns), and the next you’re caught in a sudden downpour. So all of these should be enough to turn your sweaty, soggy day into a comfortable adventure.

6. Wet Wipes and Sanitizer

Wet wipes and hand sanitizer should be must-have items on your checklist since public bathrooms aren’t always easy to find in Vietnam. Plus, when you’re enjoying all the amazing street food and popping by those unexpected snack stalls, having your hands sanitized means you can keep things fresh and clean. No doubt it will make your food experience so much more enjoyable.

7. Mobile Apps and Important Phone Numbers

A few apps can level up your Vietnam trip: Grab for rides and food delivery, Google Translate to break language barriers, Klook for tours and activities, Tinder to meet new local people, and of course, Google Maps for navigating cities and hidden gems. Also, keep these important phone numbers saved or written down, just in case: 113 - Police, 114 - Fire department, 115 - Ambulance, and of course, your embassy’s numbers.

8. Power Adapter

Vietnam primarily uses Type A, C, and D plugs, and the voltage is 220V at 50Hz. To keep all your devices charged without hassle, bringing a universal power adapter is a smart idea. It’ll save you from hunting down adapters or worrying about compatibility, so you can focus on capturing every unforgettable moment and staying connected throughout your trip.

9. Basic Vietnamese Phrases and Culture Lessons

Basic Vietnamese Phrases. Knowing a few simple Vietnamese phrases can go a long way and instantly earn you smiles. Here’s what you should start with:

• Xin chào: Hello
• Tạm biệt: Goodbye
• Cảm ơn: Thank you
• Xin lỗi: Sorry / Excuse me
• Cho tôi…: Please give me… (useful when ordering food)
• Bao nhiêu?: How much?
• Đắt quá: Too expensive
• Tôi rất thích/ Tôi rất vui: I enjoy it
• Nhà vệ sinh: WC/ Bathroom
• Không hiểu: I don’t understand

Culture Lessons. Vietnam is bursting with vibrant traditions and friendly people. Going hand in hand with them are customs that might be strange to you. Here are the common ones:

• Greetings: Greet with a smile and a polite nod instead of a handshake or a hug.
• Temple Etiquette: Dress modestly, remove your shoes before entering, and avoid pointing your feet at the Buddha statues or people.
• Giving & Receiving: Use both hands when giving or receiving something to show respect.
• Eating Etiquette: Don’t stick chopsticks upright in a bowl, don’t point the tips towards other people, and don’t leave too many leftovers.
• Personal questions: These are common. Expect locals to ask about your age, marital status, or job as a way of showing friendliness and interest, not to invade your privacy.
• Public displays of affection: In Vietnam, especially outside major cities, showing too much physical intimacy can be seen as inappropriate. Holding hands is generally fine, but keep the rest private out of respect for local customs.
• Bargaining culture: It’s not rude, it's expected! Smile, be respectful, and don’t be afraid to negotiate, especially if you’re buying souvenirs, clothes in open markets, or taking a cyclo ride. But note: prices are usually fixed in malls, convenience stores, and restaurant

10. An Open Mind and A Sense of Humor

Obviously, things can get chaotic, from traffic, weather, to even local customs. But that’s part of the fun. If you acknowledge a basic understanding of Vietnam and pack with the local lifestyle in mind, you’ll be way more comfortable and ready to enjoy everything Vietnam has to offer.