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Vietnam Packing List for Australian Travellers

  • Writer: Flexi Tour Centre
    Flexi Tour Centre
  • Aug 21
  • 2 min read

Planning a trip to Vietnam from Australia? Packing the right things can make a big difference between a comfortable holiday and one full of unnecessary stress.

After helping hundreds of Australian travellers, here’s our updated Vietnam packing list – practical, climate-appropriate, and tailored for Aussies.


1. Clothing & Footwear


Vietnam’s weather varies a lot depending on where and when you go.


Essentials:


  • Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton or quick-dry fabric)

  • 2–3 pairs of shorts and T-shirts

  • Long pants or skirts for temple visits and evenings

  • Light cardigan or jacket (especially for Hanoi, Sapa, and Ba Na Hills)

  • Swimwear (for Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Da Nang)

  • Comfortable walking shoes or sandals (you’ll walk a lot!)

  • A light rain jacket or compact poncho (rainy season can be sudden)


Pro tip: Modest clothing is important when visiting temples and pagodas — shoulders and knees should be covered.


Vietnam travel packing guide from Flexi Tour Centre
Vietnam travel packing guide from Flexi Tour Centre

2. Health & Personal Care


  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+ – the sun is strong!)

  • Mosquito repellent (especially important in the Mekong Delta and Sapa)

  • Hand sanitiser and wet wipes

  • Basic medications (pain relief, antidiarrheal, motion sickness)

  • Prescription medicines + copies of scripts

  • Small first aid kit

  • Reusable water bottle (refill stations are common)


3. Electronics & Gadgets


  • Universal power adapter (Vietnam uses Type A, C, D)

  • Portable power bank (at least 10,000mAh) - Note that you are not allow to charge on the plane

  • Good camera or smartphone with plenty of storage

  • Headphones and charger cables

  • eSIM or international roaming plan


4. Documents & Money


  • Passport + photocopies

  • Australian travel insurance documents

  • Visa approval letter (if needed)

  • Credit cards + some AUD and USD cash

  • ATM card (notify your bank before travel)

  • Printed and digital copies of bookings

Vietnam power plug
Vietnam power plug

5. Other Useful Items


  • Small daypack or cross-body bag

  • Sunglasses and hat

  • Quick-dry travel towel

  • Snacks from home (Aussies often miss familiar muesli bars)

  • Earplugs and eye mask (for noisy streets)

  • Collapsible laundry bag


What NOT to Bring


  • Heavy winter clothes (unless going to Sapa in winter)

  • Expensive jewellery

  • Lots of cash (ATMs are everywhere in cities)


Final Packing Advice from Flexi Tour Centre


  • North Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay): Pack layers – it can be cool in the mornings and evenings.

  • Central & South Vietnam (Da Nang, Hoi An, Phu Quoc): Light and breezy clothing is key.

  • Pack light! You can buy almost anything cheaply in Vietnam if you forget something.


At Flexi Tour Centre, we help Australian travellers plan comfortable and well-prepared trips. Whether you’re joining one of our Vietnam tour packages or travelling privately, feel free to reach out if you need personalised advice before your trip.

Safe travels and see you in Vietnam soon!


FAQ – Vietnam Packing List for Aussies


What should I wear in Vietnam temples?


Shoulders and knees covered. Bring a light scarf or shawl as backup.


Do I need malaria tablets for Vietnam?


Most travellers don’t, but check with your doctor. Mosquito repellent is more important.


Can I buy clothes in Vietnam?


Yes, very cheaply in Hoi An, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City if you need extras.


What’s the most important thing to pack?


A good rain jacket and comfortable walking shoes.

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