By aussiematesvietnam 
Travel Essentials for a Stress-Free Vietnamese Holiday
G’day, fellow travellers! Aussie Mates here. After nearly two decades of calling Vietnam home with my lovely wife Tracy, I’ve learned a thing or two about what makes for a smooth holiday in this vibrant country. Vietnam has changed dramatically since we first arrived, but one thing remains constant – proper preparation is key to enjoying all the wonders this Southeast Asian gem has to offer. So grab a cuppa and let’s chat about what you’ll need to pack for your Vietnamese adventure.
[IMAGE:vietnamese-landscape]
Before You Leave Australia
When Tracy and I first moved to Vietnam back in the early 2000s, preparing for life here was a whole different ballgame. These days, things are much more straightforward, but there are still some essentials to sort before you hop on that plane.
First up, your visa. Most Aussies can now enjoy 45 days visa-free in Vietnam, which is bonza for a holiday. If you’re planning a longer stay, you’ll need to arrange a visa either online through the official e-visa system or via a reputable travel agent. Don’t leave this to the last minute, mates – sorting your paperwork early means one less thing to stress about.
Travel insurance is non-negotiable. I’ve seen too many fellow Aussies come unstuck with unexpected medical bills or last-minute cancellations. Make sure your policy covers medical evacuation and any activities you’re planning (like that motorbike tour in Hoi An that Tracy still talks about).
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
- Visa documentation (if staying beyond 45 days)
- Travel insurance documents (digital and printed copies)
- International driver’s permit (if planning to drive)
- Vaccination records (including COVID-19 documentation)
Money Matters
The Vietnamese dong can be a bit of a head-spinner with all those zeros! After nearly 20 years here, I sometimes still have to double-check if I’m paying 100,000 VND (about $6 AUD) or 1,000,000 VND (about $60 AUD).
ATMs are plentiful in cities and tourist areas, but they often have withdrawal limits of around 2-3 million dong per transaction, with fees of 50,000-150,000 dong. My tip? Bring a travel card that minimizes foreign transaction fees and allows multiple withdrawals. Tracy and I use a combination of cash and cards, keeping most of our dong in a secure money belt.
Remember to notify your bank before traveling to avoid any card freezes. Nothing worse than trying to pay for that delicious seafood feast in Nha Trang only to find your card’s been blocked!
[IMAGE:vietnamese-currency]
Packing for Vietnam’s Climate
Vietnam’s climate varies dramatically from north to south. If you’re doing the full journey like Tracy and I did on our first adventure, you’ll need to pack for multiple seasons in one trip.
In Hanoi and the north, winters (December-February) can be surprisingly chilly and damp, with temperatures dropping to around 15°C. I remember shivering through our first Hanoi January in just t-shirts – rookie mistake! Pack layers and a light jacket.
Central Vietnam (Da Nang, Hoi An) enjoys warm temperatures year-round but can experience heavy rainfall between September and January. A quality lightweight rain jacket is your best mate here.
The south, including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, is consistently hot and humid. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are essential. Tracy swears by linen pants and loose cotton tops that provide sun protection while keeping cool.
- Lightweight, quick-dry clothing
- A light sweater or jacket (especially for northern Vietnam)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals or thongs for beach days
- Hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen
- Modest clothing for temple visits (covering shoulders and knees)
Health Essentials
While Vietnam has excellent hospitals in major cities, medical facilities in rural areas can be basic. Tracy and I always travel with a well-stocked medical kit.
Stomach upsets are common among visitors. I’ll never forget our friend Bruce from Perth who spent three days of his holiday hugging the porcelain throne after enjoying a bit too much street food. Pack some anti-diarrhea medication, rehydration salts, and probiotics to help your gut adjust to the new cuisine.
Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever are present in Vietnam, so insect repellent with DEET is essential. We’ve found that the natural stuff just doesn’t cut it in the humid evenings along the Mekong.
- Prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor’s letter
- Basic first aid supplies
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
- Mosquito repellent with DEET
- Water purification tablets (for remote areas)
- Travel sickness remedies
[IMAGE:medical-kit]
Tech and Gadgets
Vietnam uses the same electrical outlets as Australia (220V), so you won’t need adapters – beauty! However, I’ve found that power fluctuations can be common, so a surge protector for your valuable electronics isn’t a bad idea.
Internet access is surprisingly good throughout Vietnam, even in some of the more remote areas. You can pick up a local SIM card at the airport for about 200,000 VND ($12 AUD), which will give you plenty of data for mapping your way around, translating menus, and posting those envy-inducing beach photos.
Tracy and I have found having a power bank is crucial for those long day trips exploring Hue’s ancient citadel or trekking in Sapa, where charging opportunities can be limited.
Cultural Considerations
Vietnam is a country with deep traditions and customs. Showing respect for local culture will enhance your experience tenfold.
Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases – a simple “cảm ơn” (thank you) goes a long way. I’ve noticed the change in service and smiles when making even a small effort with the language. Our Vietnamese friends still have a good laugh at my pronunciation, but they appreciate the attempt!
Dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites. Tracy always carries a light scarf in her day bag to cover her shoulders when needed. And remember to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or certain temples.
[IMAGE:vietnamese-temple]
Safety Tips
Vietnam is generally safe for tourists, but as with any travel destination, common sense precautions are necessary.
Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas and use hotel safes for valuables. When Tracy and I are navigating the bustling markets of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, we use anti-theft bags and keep minimal cash on hand.
Traffic in Vietnam can be overwhelming for first-timers. The seemingly chaotic flow of motorbikes in cities is actually a well-choreographed dance once you understand it. When crossing streets, move at a steady pace – don’t stop suddenly or run, as drivers are calculating their movements based on your predicted path.
Final Thoughts
Vietnam has stolen our hearts over these past two decades. From the breathtaking limestone karsts of Halong Bay to the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An and the bustling energy of Ho Chi Minh City, this country offers experiences that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
With the right preparation and essentials packed, you’ll be free to immerse yourself in all Vietnam has