So, you want to visit Vietnam?

That’s great, but there are a few things you’ll want to pack for your trip. Having these items with you can mean the difference between an incredible vacation and one that’s merely okay.

To maximize your adventure, I’ve created the ultimate packing guide for Vietnam.

Let’s dig in.

Clothes

(Beachfront In Da Nang)

Many people compare Vietnam’s climate to California’s. Both regions are incredibly varied, with sunny beachfront resorts, cool mountain ranges, and sweltering cities.

Because of this, it’s important to pack a diverse wardrobe that can keep you comfortable no matter what region you’re in.

Here’s what I’d bring:

• 7 T-Shirts
• 3 Pairs Of Jeans
• 1 Sweatshirt – If you go to Dalat it gets cold.
• 2 Button-Down Shirts – For fancy restaurants or clubbing.
• 4 Pairs Of Shorts
• 9 Pairs Of Boxers
• 10 Pairs Of Socks
• Workout Clothes
• One Travel Towel – These are lightweight and take up very little space.
• Bathing Suit – For when you hit the beach.
• Flip-Flops Or Sandals
• Gym Shoes
• Pair Of Dress Shoes – For clubs and nice restaurants.

Luggage

(I Trust Samsonite To Carry All My Things)

Your bags can make or break a trip. Luggage plays a vital role in your ease of travel. The right backpack or baggage will enhance your adventure. While the wrong gear may slow you down and become frustrating.

This is the luggage I use, and I’ve never had a problem with it:

• Samsonite Silhouette Sphere 2 – This is my main travel bag, and it’s great for holding all your clothes, electronics, and books.
• Backpack – Good for carrying bottles of water, snacks, or a change of clothes. I use the Everest Double Main Compartment.
• Ziploc Bags – Put your electronics inside these airtight bags when your traveling. There’s no telling when a freak rain storm, flood, or spill could threaten to cause water damage.
• Neck Pouch – These look dorky, but they’re great for bringing your travel documents with you. I use mine whenever I’m going to or from the airport.

Security

(Vietnamese Streets Can Get Crowded, Stay Safe!)

Vietnam is a safe country. However, you can never be too careful. There are scammers and thieves lurking about, making it important to protect yourself.

These tools will keep you safe:

• Luggage Lock – Good for securing your bags while you’re traveling by bus or taking a local flight.
• Banking Website – I make sure to check my bank balance daily, just in case there’s been an unauthorized transaction.
• VPN Service – A “Virtual Private Network” will keep your personal information secure when you use public or hotel WiFi. Hotspot Shield is my VPN of choice.

Health

(Xylitol Gum And Health Food Are Popular Here)

There’s nothing worse than getting sick on vacation. Because of this, I recommend bring the following health and hygiene products. These can keep you safe and prevent any unwanted illnesses:

• Toothbrush And Toothpaste
• Mouthwash
• Dental Picks – Way better than traditional flossing. DenTek is the best brand.
• Travel Soap Or Bodywash
• Deodorant
• Talcum Powder
• Small First-Aide Kit – No telling when you’ll get hurt. Better safe than sorry.
• Sunscreen – Vietnam is hot! Be sure to protect your skin from getting burnt.
• Advil Or Aspirin
• Condoms – America has better brands and more variety. Buy before you leave for vacation.

Entertainment

(Duolingo  Is An Amazing Tool)

Vietnamese culture is a lot different from anything you’ll find back in the West. As a result, you may experience some “culture shock” when it comes to local entertainment.

Vietnamese comedy relies heavily on slapstick humor (think The Three Stooges), and their music is incredibly sappy. If you want to enjoy some Western style fun, pack the following:

• Amazon Prime – You can watch movies for free with your membership.
• Duolingo – This is a free language learning tool. I use it to practice my Vietnamese daily.
• Deck Of Cards Or Travel-Size Board Game – Fun For Playing With Locals Or Girls You Date.
• VietnamCupid Membership – The best way to meet local cuties.

Electronics

(Freelance Writing From My Rooftop Office)

Contrary to popular belief, electronics are more expensive in Asia than they are in the USA. Vietnam has import taxes that raise the prices of laptops, iPhones, and speaker systems. Save some money by planning ahead and bringing your electronics with you.

Here’s what I suggest:

• Laptop – Bring your laptop or iPad with you. There’s no telling when you might have to answer some emails or edit travel photos.
• Universal Travel Adapter – Great for charging your phone, laptop, etc…
• Unlocked Smartphone – Crucial for texting and talking when you’re in Vietnam.
• UE MINI BOOM Bluetooth Speakers – These are the perfect lightweight speakers for listening to music or practicing your Vietnamese.
• Earbuds Or Headphones – A must bring if you want to listen to music in public. I use Sennheiser CX 300 earbuds.
• Kindle Classic Touchscreen – Books take up space, Kindles don’t. Excellent for catching up on your reading without having to lug a paperback everywhere.

Final Thoughts

(Downtown Ho Chi Minh City)

Follow this guide and you’ll be all set for your trip.

Additionally, I’d suggest that you check to see if your flight has any weight restrictions on baggage. If they do, make sure that all your gear in below the limit. You can do this by putting your bag on a scale before you leave home for the airport.

This simple trick ensures that there won’t be any hassles once you start boarding your flight.

Good luck, and enjoy your travels!

P.S. Curious about what living in Vietnam is actually like? Check out this article.