Pack for 2 weeks in Vietnam

Two weeks, one suitcase and a country full of colour, chaos, and charm, Vietnam was everything I hoped for and more. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the beaches of Hoi An, and the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City, packing smart (and light!) made all the difference. Whether you’re planning your own adventure or just curious about what made the cut, here’s what I packed, and what I wish I had packed, for 14 days in Vietnam.

Clothes That Survived 2 Weeks of Heat, Rain & Scooters

• 5–6 lightweight tops (linen & cotton is key)

• 1–2 dresses for evenings

• 2–3 pairs of shorts

• 1 pair of linen pants

• 1 skirt for dinners/nights out

• Sunglasses + hat

• 1 rain jacket or poncho (essential, especially in wet season)

• 1 set of activewear

• Swimwear

• 7–10 pairs of underwear + bras

• 3 pairs of socks

• Sleepwear

• Birkenstocks / sandals

• Comfy runners

Toiletries & Health

Whether you're staying in hostels or hotels, most toiletry basics are easy to find once you arrive — so no need to overpack. Honestly, you might not even wash your hair much… because the head spas are that good!

• Toothbrush, toothpaste & deodorant

• Sunscreen (high SPF, it’s expensive in Vietnam) & moisturiser

• Insect repellent (look for DEET or picaridin)

• Small first aid kit (bandaids, antiseptic, pain relief, electrolytes, any prescription meds)

• Travel calm (always bring… just in case)

• Hand sanitiser + wet wipes

• Hair brush

• Very minimal makeup... trust me you probably won’t wear much

• Mini shampoo & conditioner (optional)

Tech & Travel Essentials

• Phone + charger + power bank

• Universal power adapter (Vietnam uses mainly Type A, C, & D plugs, 220V)

• Headphones

• Camera (film/digital)

• Book/journal for some downtime

• Reusable water bottle

Travel Documents & Money

• Passport & Visa (make sure you request a visa at least 3 weeks in advance)

• Vietnamese dong (cash is essential!)

• Travel insurance

• Travel card (WISE is the best exchange rate) OR debit/credit card (notify bank before travel)

• Small wallet for cash (most places are cash-based)

Other Handy Items

• Lightweight daypack / crossbody bag for city exploring

• Packing cubes (compression cubes are a lifesaver)

• Small locks

• Sunglasses + hat

• Scarf/sarong (temple visits & sun cover)

• Plastic bag /tote (swimmers & dirty clothes)

• Tide to go stick (your best friend!)

In the end, I kept my packing pretty minimal… and I’m glad I did. Vietnam is an easy place to pick up whatever you need along the way, this covers what I brought to get started, but you don’t need to overthink it.

Pack light, stay flexible, and leave a little space for shopping!

With love,

Kate