What to pack for a trip to Vietnam
Short answer: Vietnam is long, and the weather varies greatly from north to south. Hanoi can be cool in winter, while Saigon is warm all year. Pack light, breathable layers, clothing that covers you in temples, rainwear and light nightwear.
Three climate zones in one country
Northern Vietnam, with Hanoi and Halong Bay, has four seasons, and from December to February the temperature can fall to 10 to 15 degrees. Central Vietnam, with Hue and Hoi An, has a rainy season from September to December. Southern Vietnam, with Saigon and the Mekong Delta, is warm all year at 28 to 35 degrees, with a rainy season from May to October. Pack according to where and when you travel, and expect both warm and cool days on a tour of the whole country.
T-shirts for heat and humidity
In most of the country it is hot and humid, and a light T-shirt is the most important item of clothing. Choose fabrics that wick sweat and feel cool, such as viscose from bamboo, linen or thin cotton. See bamboo T-shirts for men. Bring five or six so you can change every day, and have laundry done along the way, which is easy and inexpensive in Vietnam.
Long sleeves for the north and for temples
In Hanoi and in the mountains around Sapa it can be cool, especially in the evening and in winter. A long sleeved top is a good extra layer. In temples and pagodas you are expected to cover shoulders and knees. Long sleeves also protect against sun and against mosquitoes at dusk. Take a look at bamboo long sleeve T-shirt for men.
Rain and hiking
In the rainy season there are often heavy showers in the afternoon. A light rain jacket or a poncho is practical, and sandals that can get wet are good in the cities. For hikes in Sapa or the national parks you need shoes with good grip, as the trails can be muddy. Clothing that dries quickly makes a big difference when the air is humid and nothing seems to dry on its own.
Night train, boat and hotel
Many travellers take the night train between Hanoi and Hue or sleep on a boat in Halong Bay. Cabins can be cool because of the air conditioning, while hotels in the south are often warm. Light nightwear that you can add a jumper to is therefore the most flexible option. See bamboo sleepwear for men. If you get stomach trouble or a fever on the way, talk to a doctor.
Packing list for two weeks
For two weeks in Vietnam you can manage with six T-shirts, two long sleeved tops, a light fleece for the north, a pair of light long trousers, two pairs of shorts, a rain jacket, sandals, hiking shoes, socks, underwear, nightwear and a sun hat. Add insect repellent, sun cream and a water bottle. Leave room in your suitcase if you want clothes made by a tailor in Hoi An, which many visitors do.
Frequently asked questions
How cold does Hanoi get in winter
From December to February the temperature can drop to 10 to 15 degrees. Bring a warm jumper.
When is the rainy season in Vietnam
It varies. In the south from May to October, in the centre from September to December.
Can you get laundry done in Vietnam
Yes, it is easy and inexpensive in most places, often on the same day.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
