Packing list for Vietnam, travel insurance for Vietnam, and taking your belongings

What to bring to Vietnam: highlighted

Highlighted items:

• Documents: a passport that is valid for at least 6 months and a visa. Copies never hurt.
• Money: ATMs are everywhere in the cities, but Vietnamese dong (VND) is handy to have for the countryside.
• Care: high factor sunscreen.
• Outdoor and conveniences: sunglasses.
• Clothing: light, breathable clothing: For the tropical climate. Long sleeves and trousers: Protection against mosquitoes and the sun.
• Shoes: comfortable walking shoes and sandals or slippers for the relaxed days.
• Medicines and travel kit: a small first aid kit with plasters, disinfectant, painkillers and ORS. Anti-mosquito agent, hand disinfectant.
• Safety: Money belt or fanny pack.
• Technology and equipment: A, C and D sockets, so some people will need a world plug.

What else can you bring:

• Reusable water bottle with filter, because tap water is technically drinkable, but often tastes strange.
• Face mask for the air pollution in the city.
• Entertainment and power bank for long journeys.

What knowledge is useful when you go to Vietnam?

• E-cigarettes (vapes) and refill packs are strictly prohibited in your luggage.
• There are a lot of mosquitoes and you can catch nasty diseases.
• DEET or picaridin is a must, especially in the early morning, afternoon and the rainy season.

Are there mosquitoes in Vietnam?

• Mosquitoes are a problem in Vietnam. In some places it is not too bad, in other places it is worse.
• Mosquitoes are most troubled during the rainy season: from May to December. Mosquitoes are also extra active during sunrise and sunset.
• Diseases occur all year round, so protect yourself well.

Are there sand flies in Vietnam?

• There are sand flies in Vietnam that can transmit nasty diseases.
• They are found throughout the country, in all kinds of areas. Con Dao is known for the groups of sand flies that swarm over the island in certain weather conditions.
• It is best to cover your ankles and spray on mosquito repellent.

Can you buy DEET, or other mosquito repellents, in Vietnam?

• DEET (Soffell is popular) can be found in pharmacies and supermarkets and online. Often they are lower concentrations. Picaridin is harder to find.
• Natural remedies are also widely used.
• Soffell is said to work well, but if you want something different or high concentrations it is best to bring a bottle yourself.

Where can you get your food and drinks in Vietnam?

• Supermarkets are extensive and handy for snacks, fruit and all your basic necessities.
• Restaurants come in luxury and cheap forms, all with delicious food.
• Street food is super popular and super tasty in Vietnam.
• Local markets are perfect for your fruit and vegetables.

Can you buy a joint or weed in Vietnam, or take it with you to Vietnam?

• Smoking a joint is illegal in Vietnam. There are hefty fines and even a risk of imprisonment.