What you need to do before you travel to Vietnam – Part 2

Traveling to Vietnam promises an enchanting adventure filled with vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine. From exploring bustling cities to immersing yourself in serene rural villages, Vietnam offers a wealth of experiences for intrepid travelers. However, before embarking on your journey to this Southeast Asian gem, it’s essential to make thorough preparations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Let’s delve into a comprehensive guide on essential preparations before you travel to Vietnam.

1. Clothing

Vietnam’s climate varies depending on the region, therefore, it is important to know what to bring when you travel to Vietnam to avoid buying more clothes that would cost you some more. 

The southwest monsoon is from May to September and the northeast monsoon is from October to April, so check the weather in the areas you plan to visit. Trekking in the northwest and boat trips in Halong Bay, for example, can be quite soggy in July and August, but this is a great idea to enjoy the central beaches. 

Hanoi’s temperature ranges from 17-30°C (62-71°F), while in Ho Chi Minh the temperature is from 25-35°C (77-95°F) year-round. The winter in Hanoi is usually dry, and not rainy from November through April, but it could be quite chilly, unlike how people think about a tropical country. If you are visiting the North in the winter, make sure to bring warm clothes with you. The heater system might not be the same so even if you are inside the house, you can still feel cold. To avoid rain, bring a lightweight raincoat with you.

In the summer, it makes so much sense to opt out the jackets, long trousers or long-sleeve shirts. Bring a pair of sunglasses because there’s going to be a lot of sun. Cotton shirts are the way to go, as you may be shocked at how hot it can be. If you like to walk, it is a good idea to pack a small towel with you. 

2. Footwear

Be comfortable, you are traveling, not going on a business trip. Hiking shoes are a great fit if you are planning to go to the north and do some hiking in Sapa, Ha Giang, etc. 

Flip-flops are a must if you are traveling to the beach. Vietnamese people don’t care if you are wearing flip flops when going outside, so if it makes it more comfortable for you, you are welcome. 

A pair of sneakers is, no doubt, the easiest to wear when traveling. Since you might not be able to bring all of your shoe collection, choose something that is waterproof. 

3. Electronics

You will need a universal power adapter whatever gadgets you bring with you to plug it in. In Vietnam, they use a variety of different 2 and 3-pin plug sockets so an adapter is smart. Having surge protection built in is a good idea to avoid it getting burnt.

Bring phone chargers, spare chargers for phones, and other electronic devices like laptops, cameras, tablets and so on. Make sure you have enough equipment, not too much, not too little. Tip for you, just bring your phone and camera enough for a trip.

4. Do’s and Don’ts in Vietnam

Dress modestly

Vietnamese culture is body-aware, which means wearing clothes that are revealing might be disrespectful to others. Conservative dress is preferred, especially when visiting religious sites like pagodas temples, or rural communities, to show respect for local norms and Vietnamese customs. 

Don’t show too much affection in public

Vietnamese culture is quite conservative, so gestures showing love like kissing or embracing in public might not be accepted, especially by the elders. Make sure you limit these actions to avoid any uncomfortable eyes. 

Don’t drink tap water

Drinking tap water is not recommended, as the water might contain harmful residue and pollutants, so stick to bottled water, which is widely affordable. Rural areas might even have lower-quality water, so make sure you always carry some water of your own and ask Vietnamese people for the best way to get clean water if you run out of water. 

Find out more about some do’s and don’ts here.

5. Safety and Security

Prioritize your safety by staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times. Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables in public. Exercise caution when crossing the street, as traffic in Vietnam can be chaotic and unpredictable. Stay informed about local news and travel advisories, and follow the guidance of local authorities in the event of emergencies or natural disasters.