Packing Guide for Indians Visiting Vietnam

Vietnam, with its mix of ancient temples, bustling cities, pristine beaches, and rolling mountains, offers a dynamic travel experience for Indian tourists. Whether you're exploring the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An or trekking through Sapa's rice terraces, what you pack can make or break your trip.

This ultimate packing guide for Indians visiting Vietnam will help you prepare smartly for different weather conditions, cultural norms, and practical travel needs—so you can travel light, yet prepared. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or through one of the curated Vietnam tours, this guide has got you covered.

1. Travel Documents & Essentials

Before you even think about clothes and gadgets, your travel documents should be your top priority. Here's what you must pack:

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months from your travel date)
• Vietnam e-Visa (print two copies; one for arrival, one spare)
• Flight tickets & hotel booking confirmations
• Travel insurance papers (recommended)
• Vaccination certificates (if required)
• Photocopies of all important documents
• Passport-sized photos (for visa extension or local ID cards)
• International SIM card or Vietnam local SIM (can also buy upon arrival)

💡 Pro Tip: Keep digital scans of all your documents on your email or Google Drive for backup.

2. Clothing: Dress for the Destination & Weather

Vietnam stretches across a long north-south axis, meaning the climate can vary widely depending on where you are and what time of year you're visiting.

Basic Clothing Checklist:

• 3–4 light cotton T-shirts or tops
• 2–3 pairs of comfortable pants or jeans
• 1–2 pairs of shorts or skirts for warmer days
• 1 windcheater or light jacket (especially for northern areas like Hanoi or Sapa)
• 1 sweater if traveling in winter (Nov–Feb)
• Raincoat or foldable umbrella (Vietnam can be unpredictably rainy)
• Sleepwear
• Undergarments (enough for at least 5–7 days)

For Women:

• Scarves or stoles (handy for temple visits or covering up in conservative places)
• Avoid overly revealing clothing, especially when visiting pagodas or rural areas.

For Beaches:

• Swimwear
• Flip flops or beach sandals
• Quick-dry towel

💡 Pro Tip: If you're visiting Vietnam during the Tet (New Year) festival or in the northern highlands, it can get quite chilly. Layering is key.

3. Footwear: Comfort Comes First

You’ll likely be doing a lot of walking—through city streets, markets, temples, and sometimes rugged trails. Here’s what you should carry:

• Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
• Flip-flops or sandals for the beach or hostel stays
• One pair of formal shoes (optional if attending special dinners or events)

4. Toiletries & Personal Hygiene

Vietnam has convenience stores and supermarkets, but packing familiar Indian brands can save time and comfort. Essentials include:

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, comb
• Soap or body wash
• Shampoo and conditioner (travel size)
• Deodorant
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
• Lip balm
• Mosquito repellent cream or spray
• Razor or trimmer
• Sanitary pads or tampons (carry extra if you prefer Indian brands)
• Wet wipes and hand sanitizer

💡 Optional but handy: Toilet paper roll (especially for remote areas), compact travel detergent (for washing clothes on the go)

5. Health & Medication

Indian digestive systems sometimes react to new cuisines or water. Be prepared by packing a compact medical kit.

Must-have Medicines:

• Paracetamol / Crocin
• Antacids
• ORS sachets / electrolyte powder
• Anti-diarrheal tablets
• Motion sickness tablets (especially if taking cruises)
• Pain relief balm or spray
• Basic first aid: band-aids, antiseptic cream

Also, carry any prescription medicines with doctor’s note and original packaging.

6. Electronics & Gadgets

Vietnam is largely tech-friendly, and most hotels and cafes offer free Wi-Fi. Here’s what you should pack:

• Mobile phone & charger
• Power bank (mandatory for long day tours)
• Universal travel adapter (Vietnam uses type A, C, and D sockets)
• Camera or GoPro (for travel photography)
• Headphones or earbuds
• Kindle or book for downtime
• Laptop or tablet (if working remotely)

💡 Tip: Voltage in Vietnam is 220V; most Indian appliances work fine but always double-check your device labels.

7. Money & Payments

While cards are accepted in big cities, Vietnam still thrives on cash, especially in local markets and smaller towns.

• Vietnamese Dong (VND): Carry a decent amount for the first few days
• Forex/travel card with ATM access
• UPI or international payment apps: Not commonly used in Vietnam, so carry cash
• Keep some USD in small denominations for emergencies or visa fees

Avoid exchanging money at airports—use local currency exchange services for better rates.

8. Extras for Indian Travelers

If you love your home comforts, consider these extras:

• Packaged snacks (like Theplas, khakhra, Maggi, or namkeen)
• Electric kettle (compact one for making ready-to-eat meals)
• Ready-to-cook meals or MTR packets
• Spices or masala sachets for Indian flavor

These are particularly helpful for vegetarians or those traveling with children.

9. Backpacks, Luggage & Bags

Choose your luggage depending on your travel style:

• Wheeled suitcase or trolley bag for comfort
• Daypack or backpack (20–30L) for city exploring and tours
• Small sling bag or anti-theft pouch for passports, money, phone

Keep your hand baggage light but include:

• 1 set of clothes
• Documents
• Charger
• Medicine
• Snacks

💡 Pro Tip: Always use TSA-approved locks and luggage tags.

10. Cultural Sensitivity & Respect

Vietnamese people are warm and welcoming but conservative in some regions. Keep in mind:

• Remove shoes before entering homes and some temples.
• Avoid public displays of affection.
• Dress modestly while visiting temples, pagodas, and rural villages.
• Don’t point your feet toward sacred objects or images of Buddha.

Respecting local customs will enhance your travel experience.

Bonus Tip: Book Smart, Travel Smart

Planning your Vietnam trip independently can be fun, but for a seamless and cost-effective experience, you might consider customized Vietnam tour packages from Ahmedabad. With curated itineraries, hotel bookings, transfers, and local experiences included, Go 360 ensures that you enjoy Vietnam without logistical hassles.

These packages often provide:

• Cost savings through bundled bookings
• Local guides who speak English
• Easy access to vegetarian or Indian food
• Safety and 24x7 assistance during travel

Final Thoughts

Packing smart for Vietnam doesn’t mean packing more—it means packing right. The goal is to be prepared for weather shifts, cultural expectations, and different travel environments while staying light on your feet. With this checklist in hand, you’re already halfway to a hassle-free vacation.

So, whether you're traveling solo, with family, or boo