Make the most of your trip to Vietnam by being well-prepared with a packing list. Having a checklist keeps you organized and prevents surprises.
What you’ll want to bring varies from person to person. Based on feedback from fellow travelers, we’ve put together the ultimate Vietnam packing list.
And if you happen to forget something, there’s no need to panic. You can pretty much get everything you need eventually in Vietnam.

Ultimate Packing List for Vietnam
Travel Documents
Tip: Scan important documents like your passport, visa, insurance info, and driver’s license. This way, you have a backup if your stuff gets lost or stolen.
Electronics
Luggage
Clothing
Tip: Roll your clothes instead of folding them. This not only saves space but also helps reduce wrinkles. You can also use packing cubes to keep your clothes organized.
Toiletries
Tip: Bring items that can serve multiple purposes. A sarong, for instance, can be used as a beach towel, scarf, or blanket. This saves space and weight in your backpack.
Miscellaneous
Extra Tips And Facts About Vietnam
- Most hotels offer cheap and quick laundry services, so you don’t need to pack too many clothes.
- Learn a few basic Vietnamese words like “xin chào” (hello) and “cảm ơn” (thank you). Locals really appreciate that.
- Vietnamese coffee packs a punch with its strong, sweet flavor. Try ‘ca phe sua da’ (iced coffee with condensed milk) for a refreshing boost.
- Credit cards aren’t always accepted, especially in smaller towns. Always have some cash on hand.
- Negotiating is common at markets and small shops. Start at half the asking price and go from there.
- Make sure to sort out your visa well in advance. You won’t get into Vietnam without it.
No worries if you forgot something. Vietnam is super cheap, and you can buy most things on the spot. The most well-known store is Circle K. You’ll also find 7-Eleven around, but not as much as in places like Thailand.
Be selective about what you pack. It’s much easier to travel light. From my experience, I always ended up carrying way too much. You’ll definitely manage fine with 14 – 17 kg.
If you’re still interested in handy travel gadgets for your vacation, we’ve got an article about that too!
Enjoy your trip!