Hanoi guide
🇻🇳 Packing List
What to pack for Hanoi
In March, Hanoi is typically mild, expect showers (18°C - 22°C). This list adapts to those conditions; adjust for your exact travel dates.
Hanoi essentials
- Modest outfits that cover shoulders and knees for town and religious sites
- Sarong or shawl for temple visits
Documents
- Photo ID
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Visa / e-visa printout
- Return / onward flight tickets
- Travel insurance policy
- Hotel booking confirmations
- Passport-size photographs (2-4)
- Photocopies / phone photos of passport and tickets, stored separately
Clothing
- Casual day outfits
- One smart-casual outfit for dinners
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light rain jacket or poncho
- Compact umbrella
- Undergarments and sleepwear
- Enough outfits for 7 days (6 sets)
- Layered outfits you can add or remove as the day warms
Toiletries & health
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and toiletries
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Personal medication with prescription
- Basic first-aid: band-aids, painkillers, ORS
- Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
- Insect / mosquito repellent
- Busy street stalls are fresh and safe. High turnover is key. Bottled water only.
Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Power bank
- Camera (optional)
- Power adaptor: Type A/C/D/F plugs (mix), 220V.
Money
- Debit / credit cards
- Local currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
- VND cash for most. Cards at hotels.
Local know-how
- Local SIM: Viettel, Mobifone, Vinaphone. Buy at airport. Very cheap data.
- Pocket tissues: some island toilets are squat-style or limited
- Overpriced cyclo (pedicab) rides - agree price first
- March highlights: Spring arrives; Drizzly but pleasant