What to wear in Vietnam | Intrepid Travel (2024)

FAQs

What to wear in Vietnam | Intrepid Travel? ›

Generally, casual clothes are recommended. Loose fitting, lightweight cotton materials are the most comfortable for warm conditions, layers of warmer clothes for cold conditions and a warm water/windproof jacket for wintry weather in the north.

Generally, casual clothes are recommended. Loose fitting, lightweight cotton materials are the most comfortable for warm conditions, layers of warmer clothes for cold conditions and a warm water/windproof jacket for wintry weather in the north.

Wearing shorts is acceptable in most situations for both men and women. However, Vietnam's traditional culture is somewhat conservative, so avoiding sleeveless shirts, tank tops, or short shorts—especially while visiting Buddhist temples—shows the greatest respect for it.

When travelling to cultural places or local markets women are advised not to dress in short skirts, pants, or low cut tops or dresses. For men, casual jeans and shirts are the normal dress code, but they are advised not to take off their shirts in public places if it gets too hot.

We recommend you to pack some red clothes or jackets as this colour is considered as the appearance of luckiness according to Vietnamese culture.

5. What to wear in Vietnam. In general, you can wear normal shorts and shirts that have open space of knees and shoulders in lots of places in Vietnam expects holy places like pagodas, temples, churches, cathedrals, and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

Clothing and footwear

Remember that short shorts, crop tops and tank tops are not considered appropriate in Vietnam. Loose, long clothing is both respectful and tends to keep you cooler in hot climates.

Breathable walking shoes are essential for traversing cities and quaint villages alike. When beach-bound to spots like Phu Quoc or Nha Trang, flip-flops or water shoes should be in your travel bag. For upper-body wear, think of moisture-wicking T-shirts or breezy sleeveless tops.

The national traditional dress in Vietnam is the ao dai, a silk tunic with pants worn by women and men. Ao dài are worn for special occasions including Tet, the new year celebration. Since the twentieth century, Vietnamese people have also worn contemporary clothing that is popular in many places in the world.

Can I wear jeans in Vietnam? ›

Even though Vietnam isn't the place for long denim, jean shorts are another matter. They can be worn multiple times between washings, hold their shape, and will be your go-to bottom during your trip. For days when you really can't stand the heat, loose fabric shorts and a flowy casual dress are a nice alternative.

Vietnam is a semi-tropical country but winters in the north can be chilly (especially in highland areas such as Sapa). If you're heading to Hanoi and the surrounding region between December and March, make sure you pack a few hoodies or warm sweaters for the evenings.

Loose, breathable clothes are your best option – think t-shirts, cotton trousers or shorts and thin long-sleeved tops. Lighter colours will help ward off the heat further south, along with linen trousers: the sun can be scorchingly hot mid-day, so make sure you're protected with sunglasses and a sunhat.

Remember that short shorts, crop tops and tank tops are not considered appropriate in Vietnam. Loose, long clothing is both respectful and tends to keep you cooler in hot climates.

Secondly, in Vietnam's biggest cities—like in many big cities—if you flaunt your wealth, it may be taken from you. Do your best to not carry a purse, always lock up your motorbike if you have one, and don't wear obviously expensive jewelry that talented pickpockets could slip off you.

Southern and central cities, such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hue, are warm year-round, with temperatures rarely dropping below 20°C, however, the temperature does drop as you go further north. Pack a light jacket, hoodie or fleece for travel to Hanoi and Halong Bay between November and March.

Unless you are really attached to your jeans, avoid bringing long denim. High humidity and skinny jeans don't mix well. Instead, opt for loose fitting jogger pants and a maxi dress/skirt for days when you need a little more coverage.

Fashion. As a general rule of thumb, the more luxurious and verifiable the item, the less you'll save in Vietnam. If you go to a high-end retailer, the prices will look similar to London or Paris or Milan. The real savings come from shopping at local Vietnamese markets and boutique shops.

Your main large backpack could take the brunt of your fall but it's not easily foreseeable that you will land safely. If a motorbike driver is in the road, you may be pulled into the road. The rider may be pulled off their bike and suddenly you're face to face with the person who is trying to steal from you.