Are you wondering what to wear in Vietnam? Vietnam has pretty constant weather year-round but the combination of heat and humidity can make it a tricky place to pack for. In this guide, we will cover what to wear in Vietnam in Summer, Winter, Spring or Fall as well as specific destinations such as Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Ha Long Bay, and beyond.
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Weather in Vietnam
No matter what time of year you are visiting Vietnam you can expect quite consistent temperatures. In Fall (September, October and November) the average high is around 88°F with the average high rising to 93°F in Spring time (March, April and May).
Even in Winter (December, January and February) the temperatures are still pretty consistent.
However there are two distinct seasons in Vietnam – the wet season and the dry season.
The dry season starts in November and ends by late April / early May while the wet season runs from May to November.
For this reason it is always a good idea to prepare for rain when packing for Vietnam.
Are you traveling elsewhere in Asia? Check out our other guides:
Vietnam Dress Codes
Most places in Vietnam do not have a formal dress code. There will be some more upscale restaurants in the cities that may have smart casual dress codes, but for the most part dress codes shouldn’t be your primary concern when packing for Vietnam.
However if you plan on visiting temples on your visit you will want to have one more conservative outfit with you that doesn’t bear a lot of skins.
Tips for how to dress in Vietnam in Summer
Anyone who has lived in or visited Vietnam will tell you that heat and high humidity have to the primary concern of your packing list. For this reason, you should stick to lots of natural fabrics such as linen, silk and cotton to help cope with the weather conditions. Man-made fabrics will not be your friend in Vietnam.
It is also a good idea to have a top layer with you for going inside restaurants and malls where there is likely to be fierce air conditioning.
And finally, it is worth always having some waterproof shoes and a very lightweight waterproof jacket with you in Vietnam during the wet season.
What to wear in Vietnam Year Round
So what should you wear in Vietnam year round?
Maxi Dresses and Skirts
A Maxi dress is a staple of my Vietnam packing lists. I try and pick one made of a natural fabric such as cotton or linen so it is more breathable.
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Cardigan
It might sound strange to be heading to a country that is renowned for hot and humid weather daytime but I recommend taking a cardigan but I am.
The reason is because the indoor venues in Vietnam have strong air conditioning.
T Shirts / blouse
A T Shirt/blouse made of natural fabric is a great staple, especially for days when you will spend lots of time outside such as at Ha Long Bay, Cu Chi Tunnel, the beaches of Da Nang and Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park.
Linen Trousers
If you do plan on going to some more upscale restaurants we recommend packing a smarter pair of linen trousers to pair with a blouse. These will keep you cool but also be stylish enough for places with dress codes.
Swimwear
With the heat and humidity a dip in a pool can be a great way to cool off after a day of sightseeing. Personally, I prefer to wear a one-piece or a bikini rather than a thong-cut bikini as you will find the styles in Vietnam more conservative.
Shorts
Shorts are a good pick for Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park especially for beaches and for days exploring outdoor venues. Running shorts and quick dry shorts are a great pick in the heat.
Hiking Trousers and long sleeve shirt
If you want to go hiking in one of the national parks we recommend packing some hiking trousers and a long sleeve top that will protect you from insects.
Sandals
Sandals are a great pick for Vietnam. I like to pick a pair that are good for walking but can also be used in more upscale restaurants and bars where you may need a smart casual outfit.
Sneakers
- adidas womens Sneaker
Our go to brands are:
- Hoka,
- Sketchers Go Walks or
- All Birds
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We recommend sticking with a lightweight pair of sneakers that will cope well with the heat.
Flip Flops
Although the most important shoes for Vietnam are definitely sandals and sneakers, you may also want to pack a pair of flip flops with you for wondering around the pool and beach.
Underwear
This goes without saying.
Pashmina
For any trip to Vietnam whatever time of year you are traveling we recommend taking a pashmina as it is a handy extra layer if you are somewhere with lots of air con.
Pyjamas
Sun hat
The sun is very strong in Vietnam so to protect your face from the sun while walking around the city and for hanging out on the beach.
Sunglasses
Sun safety in Vietnam is very important so be sure to pack a good pair of sunglasses that have good UV Protection.
What to Pack for Vietnam for Men
If you are a man traveling to Vietnam then you will want to pack:
Cotton / Linen Pants
These are better for dealing with the heat
T Shirts
T Shirts are appropriate throughout Vietnam for men.
Shorts
Shorts are great for anyone who wants to spend time outdoors in Vietnam.
Shirts
While T shirts are appropriate in most public places, button down shirts should be added to your packing list if you plan on eating at some of Singapore’s fine dining establishments.
Hiking Outfit
If you plan on visiting a national park or do any hiking in Vietnam we recommend having some long hiking pants and long sleeve tops with you that will protect you from bugs.
Sandals
Sandals are appropriate for men as well as women.
Sneakers
Sneakers are great for the days you plan on doing lots of walking in Vietnam.
Flip Flops
Again if you are at the beach and hotel, you may if you have room want to add some flip flops to your packing list too.
Vietnam Packing List (non clothing)
Now we have covered the clothes you should pack for Vietnam, we will look at the non-clothing items to put on your Vietnam packing list:
- Documents
- Crossbody bag – anti theft type – my favorite brand is Travelon.
- Suncream – with a high SPF
- Insect Repellant – a strong one is recommend.
- Aloe Vera
- Lip Balm with SPF
- Toiletries
- Medication and their related prescriptions
- First Aid Kit
- Water bottle – it is important to stay hydrated in Vietnam
- Cooling Towel
- Quick Dry Towel
FAQs
What to wear in Ho Chi Minh City?
There aren’t many dress codes in Ho Chi Minh City outside of temples. However you will find lots of long loose clothing made of natural fabrics are best for the weather.
What to wear in Hanoi?
As with Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi doesnt have many strict dress codes. However you will want clothes made of natural fabrics with long and loose silhouettes to help cope with the high temperatures.
What else would you add to this Singapore packing list?