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Ho Chi Minh City packing list

Everything you actually need for Ho Chi Minh City, and nothing you don't — with notes on what's specific to this destination.

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam packing list

21 items across 5 categories — 14 marked essential.

PassportEssential
Required for international travel and hotel check-ins.
Visa (if applicable)Essential
Check Vietnam's visa requirements for your nationality well in advance.
Local Currency (VND)Essential
While cards are accepted in many places, smaller vendors and taxis often prefer cash.
Credit/Debit CardsEssential
Inform your bank of your travel dates to avoid blocked cards.
Copies of important documents
Keep digital or physical copies separate from the originals.

Lightweight, breathable clothingEssential
Ho Chi Minh City is hot and humid year-round.
Modest attire for templesEssential
Shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting religious sites.
Rain jacket or umbrellaEssential
Sudden, heavy downpours are common, especially during the rainy season (May-November).
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
You'll be doing a lot of walking on often uneven sidewalks.
Swimsuit
If your accommodation has a pool.

Universal travel adapterEssential
Vietnam uses Type A, C, and F plugs, with voltage at 220V/50Hz.
Portable power bank
Useful for keeping devices charged while out and about.
Camera
To capture the vibrant street life and architecture.

Hand sanitizerEssential
For use before eating or after touching surfaces.
Insect repellentEssential
Mosquitoes can be present, especially in the evenings.
Basic first-aid kit
Include any personal medications.
Motion sickness medication
If you plan on taking buses or boats.

Reusable water bottle
To reduce plastic waste; refill from purified sources.
Small backpack or day bagEssential
For carrying essentials during daily excursions.
Travel-sized toiletriesEssential
While readily available, having your preferred brands is convenient.
Sunglasses and hatEssential
For protection against the strong tropical sun.

•Tap water is not safe to drink; use bottled or filtered water for drinking and brushing teeth.
•Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure, especially in crowded markets and on public transport, due to petty theft.
•Bargaining is common in markets, but do so politely and with a smile.
•Traffic can be chaotic; exercise extreme caution when crossing streets. Look both ways multiple times and walk at a steady pace.
•Pharmacies are widely available, but ensure you have prescriptions for any specific medications you might need.

Itinerary, hotels, activities — all in one place.

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