Vietnam Packing List for Women: What to Wear and Bring

Essential Clothing for Your Vietnam Adventure

Okay, ladies, let's talk clothes! Vietnam's climate is diverse, ranging from tropical in the south to subtropical in the north. Packing the right clothing is key to staying comfortable and stylish throughout your trip. Think lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking synthetics. You'll want versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down, and remember to consider cultural sensitivities, especially when visiting temples or pagodas.

Lightweight Tops and T-Shirts

Pack a variety of lightweight tops and t-shirts. Short-sleeved shirts are great for everyday wear, while long-sleeved shirts can provide protection from the sun and mosquitoes. Consider bringing a mix of solid colors and prints to create different outfits. I usually pack around 5-7 t-shirts, some neutral colors (black, white, grey) and a few with fun patterns. Brands like Uniqlo and Columbia offer great options for lightweight, quick-drying tees. Uniqlo's AIRism line is fantastic for hot and humid climates. A basic AIRism tee costs around $15-20. Columbia's Silver Ridge shirts are a bit more expensive, around $30-40, but they offer excellent sun protection.

Versatile Pants and Shorts

Pants and shorts are essential for exploring Vietnam. Lightweight chinos, linen pants, or quick-drying hiking pants are all good choices. Shorts are fine for most situations, but you'll want to have a pair of longer pants or a skirt for visiting temples or more conservative areas. Athleta's Brooklyn Ankle Pants are a travel favorite – comfortable, stylish, and wrinkle-resistant, costing around $90. For shorts, consider Prana's Halle Shorts, which are durable, comfortable, and have a flattering fit, priced around $60.

Comfortable Skirts and Dresses

Skirts and dresses are perfect for staying cool and stylish in Vietnam. Maxi dresses are a great option for evenings out, while shorter skirts can be worn during the day. Choose fabrics that are easy to care for and don't wrinkle easily. Consider a lightweight cotton sundress or a flowy maxi skirt. I love packing a few versatile dresses that can be dressed up with sandals and jewelry for dinner, or dressed down with sneakers for exploring. Old Navy often has affordable and stylish options, ranging from $25-$40. For something a bit more upscale, check out Reformation's selection of sustainable dresses, though they'll cost you around $150-$300.

Lightweight Jacket or Cardigan

Even though Vietnam is generally warm, it's a good idea to pack a lightweight jacket or cardigan. This will come in handy for cool evenings, air-conditioned buses and trains, and visiting mountainous regions. A denim jacket, a light fleece, or a packable rain jacket are all good options. Patagonia's Houdini Jacket is a fantastic lightweight and packable option for around $100. A simple denim jacket from Levi's can be found for around $60-80.

Swimsuit

If you're planning on visiting any of Vietnam's beautiful beaches or swimming pools, don't forget to pack a swimsuit! Choose a style that you feel comfortable and confident in. I recommend bringing at least two swimsuits so you always have a dry one. Aerie and Target have great, affordable swimsuit options, typically ranging from $20-$40 per piece.

Footwear Essentials for Walking and Exploring Vietnam

Comfortable footwear is crucial for exploring Vietnam. You'll be doing a lot of walking, so choose shoes that are supportive and won't give you blisters. Consider the terrain you'll be encountering – sandals for the beach, sneakers for city walking, and hiking boots for trekking.

Comfortable Walking Shoes or Sneakers

A good pair of walking shoes or sneakers is essential. Choose a pair that is well-cushioned and provides good support. Brands like Adidas, Nike, and New Balance offer a wide variety of comfortable and stylish sneakers. I swear by my Adidas Ultraboosts for long days of walking. They're super comfortable and supportive, but they can be pricey, around $180. New Balance offers more affordable options around $80-$100 that are still great for walking.

Sandals or Flip-Flops

Sandals or flip-flops are perfect for the beach, the pool, and casual wear. Choose a pair that is comfortable and easy to slip on and off. Birkenstocks are a popular choice for their comfort and durability, costing around $100-$150. Havaianas are a more affordable option for around $20-$30.

Hiking Boots (If Applicable)

If you're planning on doing any hiking or trekking, you'll need a good pair of hiking boots. Choose a pair that is waterproof and provides good ankle support. Merrell and Salomon are well-known brands for hiking boots. A good pair of hiking boots will cost you around $150-$250.

Accessories You Can't Forget For Safety and Comfort

Accessories can make or break your trip. They add to your style, but also protect you from the elements, and provide convenience.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from the strong Vietnamese sun. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you're swimming or sweating. I always pack a travel-sized sunscreen in my day bag. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen is a popular choice for its lightweight and invisible finish, costing around $34 for a travel size. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen is a more affordable option for around $10.

Insect Repellent

Mosquitoes can be a problem in Vietnam, especially during the rainy season. Pack a good insect repellent with DEET or picaridin. Apply insect repellent to exposed skin, especially in the evenings. I prefer using a repellent with DEET when traveling to areas with a high risk of mosquito-borne illnesses. Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent is a reliable option, costing around $8. For a more natural option, try Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent, which costs around $10.

Hat

A hat can protect your face and neck from the sun. Choose a wide-brimmed hat for maximum protection. A baseball cap or a straw hat are also good options. I love packing a packable straw hat that I can easily throw in my bag. You can find affordable options at Target or Amazon for around $15-$25.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are essential for protecting your eyes from the sun. Choose a pair that blocks 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Ray-Ban and Oakley are well-known brands for sunglasses. A good pair of sunglasses will cost you around $100-$200.

Scarf or Sarong

A scarf or sarong is a versatile accessory that can be used for a variety of purposes. You can use it to cover your shoulders when visiting temples, as a blanket on a chilly bus, or as a beach cover-up. A lightweight cotton or silk scarf is a good choice. You can find beautiful and affordable scarves in Vietnam at local markets for just a few dollars.

Toiletries and Personal Care Items for Hygiene and Health

Don't forget your essential toiletries and personal care items! It's always a good idea to bring your own toiletries, as you may not be able to find your favorite brands in Vietnam.

Travel-Sized Toiletries

Pack travel-sized versions of your favorite shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion. This will save space in your luggage and allow you to comply with airline regulations. You can find travel-sized toiletries at most drugstores or online. I love using refillable travel bottles to minimize waste. A set of refillable travel bottles will cost you around $10-$15.

Toothbrush, Toothpaste, and Floss

Don't forget your toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss! It's important to maintain good oral hygiene while traveling. I recommend bringing an electric toothbrush for optimal cleaning. A Philips Sonicare toothbrush costs around $40-$100.

Medications

If you take any prescription medications, be sure to bring enough to last for your entire trip. It's also a good idea to bring a copy of your prescription in case you need to refill it while you're away. Pack a small first-aid kit with essentials like pain relievers, bandages, antiseptic wipes, and motion sickness medication. I always bring Imodium in case of stomach upset. A basic first-aid kit will cost you around $10-$20.

Hand Sanitizer

Hand sanitizer is a must-have for traveling, especially in countries where hygiene standards may not be as high as you're used to. Use hand sanitizer frequently, especially before eating. I always carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer in my purse. You can find hand sanitizer at most drugstores for around $2-$3.

Electronics and Gadgets To Keep You Connected and Entertained

Electronics and gadgets can make your trip more convenient and enjoyable. However, it's important to pack only the essentials and leave unnecessary items at home.

Phone and Charger

Your phone is essential for staying connected, navigating, and taking photos. Don't forget to pack your phone charger and a portable power bank. A good portable power bank will cost you around $20-$30. Consider purchasing a local SIM card in Vietnam for cheaper data rates.

Camera

If you're serious about photography, you'll want to bring a dedicated camera. A DSLR or mirrorless camera will give you the best image quality. However, a smartphone camera is often sufficient for casual travel photography. Sony and Canon are popular brands for cameras. A good travel camera can cost anywhere from $500 to $2000+ depending on the features and lens.

Adapter

Vietnam uses a variety of electrical outlets, so you'll need to bring a universal adapter to be able to charge your devices. A universal adapter will cost you around $10-$20.

Headphones

Headphones are essential for listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks on long flights or bus rides. Noise-canceling headphones are a great option for blocking out distractions. Bose and Sony are well-known brands for noise-canceling headphones. A good pair of noise-canceling headphones will cost you around $200-$400.

Important Documents and Money Management for Peace of Mind

Don't forget your important documents and money management essentials! It's crucial to keep your passport, visa, and other important documents safe and secure.

Passport and Visa

Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. You may also need a visa to enter Vietnam, depending on your nationality. Check the visa requirements for your country well in advance of your trip. Keep a copy of your passport and visa in a separate location from the originals.

Credit Cards and Cash

Bring a mix of credit cards and cash. Credit cards are widely accepted in larger cities and tourist areas, but cash is essential for smaller towns and markets. Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid having your cards blocked. It's a good idea to have some US dollars on hand to exchange for Vietnamese dong upon arrival. Be aware of ATM fees and exchange rates.

Travel Insurance Information

Travel insurance is essential for protecting yourself against unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen belongings. Carry a copy of your travel insurance policy with you, along with the contact information for your insurance provider. World Nomads and Allianz are popular travel insurance providers.

Specific Product Recommendations and Comparisons

Sunscreen Face Off: Supergoop! vs. Neutrogena

Let's break down the sunscreen options. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen is fantastic because it's truly invisible – no white cast at all. It's also a great makeup primer. However, it's more expensive, around $34 for a small bottle. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen is a budget-friendly option that still provides excellent sun protection. It can leave a slight white cast on darker skin tones, but it absorbs quickly and doesn't feel greasy. For daily use under makeup, I'd splurge on Supergoop!. For all-over body protection, Neutrogena is a great value.

Sneaker Showdown: Adidas Ultraboost vs. New Balance

When it comes to walking shoes, comfort is key. The Adidas Ultraboost is known for its incredibly comfortable Boost cushioning. It's like walking on clouds! However, they're pricey, around $180. New Balance offers excellent walking shoes with good support at a lower price point, usually around $80-$100. If you prioritize maximum comfort and are willing to spend the money, go for the Ultraboosts. If you're on a budget, New Balance is a great alternative.

The Ultimate Mosquito Repellent Test: DEET vs. Lemon Eucalyptus

Protecting yourself from mosquitoes is crucial in Vietnam. DEET is the most effective ingredient for repelling mosquitoes, but some people are concerned about its potential side effects. Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent contains DEET and provides long-lasting protection. Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent is a natural alternative that is also effective, but it needs to be applied more frequently. If you're highly sensitive to mosquito bites or traveling to an area with a high risk of mosquito-borne illnesses, DEET is the best choice. If you prefer a natural option, lemon eucalyptus is a good alternative.

Packing Hacks and Tips

Packing efficiently is an art! Here are a few tips to help you pack smarter:

• Roll your clothes: Rolling your clothes saves space and helps prevent wrinkles.
• Use packing cubes: Packing cubes help you organize your luggage and compress your clothes.
• Wear your bulkiest items on the plane: This will save space in your suitcase.
• Pack a reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is important, especially in hot climates.
• Leave room for souvenirs: You'll want to bring back some souvenirs from your trip!

Enjoy Your Vietnam Trip!

With the right packing list, you'll be well-prepared for your Vietnam adventure. Remember to pack light, choose versatile clothing, and prioritize comfort. Have a fantastic trip!