What should I pack for Vietnam?

Light, breathable clothing, rain gear, modest clothes for temples, comfortable walking shoes, a universal power adapter, sunscreen, insect repellent, and basic medicines. Add warm layers if you're visiting the north in winter.

What power adapter do I need in Vietnam?

Vietnam runs on 220V, with sockets commonly fitting Type A, C, and F plugs. A universal travel adapter covers all of these.

Do I need warm clothes for Vietnam?

It depends on your route. The north — Hanoi and especially mountain areas like Sapa — can be cool to genuinely cold in winter (Dec–Feb), so bring layers. The centre and south are hot, requiring only light clothing.

What to Pack for Vietnam: A Complete Packing List

Because Vietnam runs from a cool northern winter to a hot tropical south, your packing list flexes with your route and timing. Check the best time to visit first, then pack to match.

Pack by region and season

North (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long): can be cool to genuinely cold in winter (Dec–Feb), especially in the mountains — bring layers, a warm jacket, and long trousers. Summers are hot and humid.
Centre (Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue): mostly hot, with a rainy/typhoon stretch in autumn — pack light clothing plus solid rain gear.
South (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong, Phu Quoc): hot and humid year-round — lightweight, breathable clothes only.

Clothing essentials

Light, breathable fabrics (cotton, linen) for the heat.
A few layers if heading north or up to the mountains.
Modest clothing — shoulders and knees covered — for temples and pagodas; a scarf or light shawl is versatile.
Swimwear for beaches and pools.

Rain gear

Sudden downpours are common in the wet season. Pack a compact rain jacket or travel umbrella, and a quick-dry layer.

Footwear

Comfortable walking shoes — cities mean a lot of walking on uneven pavements.
Sandals or flip-flops for beaches and hot days.
Slip-on styles help, as you’ll remove shoes entering some temples and homes.

Electronics and adapters

Vietnam uses 220V, with sockets commonly fitting Type A, C, and F plugs. A universal travel adapter covers all cases.
A power bank is handy for long sightseeing days.

Health and sun

Sunscreen (strong sun, especially centre and south).
Insect repellent — useful in the Mekong, countryside, and evenings.
Basic medicines: any personal prescriptions, plus simple remedies for upset stomach, pain relief, and motion sickness.
A small hand sanitiser and tissues for street-food stops.

Documents and money

Passport, visa confirmation (see the visa guide), and travel insurance details.
A mix of cash and a card — read the money guide.

Packing for a dental trip

If you’re travelling for treatment, pack any dental records or imaging, your usual medications, and soft, comfortable clothing for recovery days. We brief patients on exactly what to bring before appointments in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi.

Planning a treatment trip? Get a free assessment and we’ll send you a tailored prep checklist.