9 Packing Tips for Your Trip to Halong Bay

The hardest part of before travling to Ha Long Bay must be packing your suitcase. Most of people have to reconsider what to stuff and how to pack smartly for your trip. Here’re 9 packing tips that everyone must know to pack lighter, faster and smarter.

1. Check the weather before packing

The Halong Bay weather is a decisive factor for your trip. Since the Halong Bay weather can fluctuate greatly, you should check the weather forecast few days ahead in order to avoid unfavorable situations and to pack the essentials for the weather conditions.

In summer, it’s sunny and occasionally stormy in Halong Bay. Hence, an umbrella and sun cream are two most necessary items. Warm days in Halong Bay are often accompanied by cool nights, so make sure you pack a light and rainproof jacket just in case. In colder months, it’s best to pack light layers to Halong Bay.

2. Know the suitcase allowance

A smart traveler will do some research on suitcase and baggage allowance before deciding what to pack. Take a look at your airline’s website or ask your travel consultant to learn about the baggage fee and policy. Most airlines flying to Vietnam allow free 7-kg carry on baggage which is similar to 20-inch luggage. If you want to carry a larger size, buy check in baggage allowance. 

Noted: During your stay in Halong Bay, you should consider a small case to tote around easily. Since Hanoi and Sapa are the main hubs for a Halong Bay trip, you may have many options for transport like car, shuttle bus or limousine. As a result, the essential packing tip in Halong Bay is choosing your bag within maximum guidelines; and your optimal travel bag should be range from 20-inch to 26-inch size.

3. Make a packing list

You should start your packing process by making a list of things to stuff. This gives you time to draft a complete list and purchase any additional items you might need for your vacation to Halong Bay.

First of all, write down the most essentials including travel documents (passport, visa, transport tickets, receipts, etc.), copies of your travel documents, maps, sunglasses and water bottle. Secondly, keep the running list close at hand and add to it as things pop into your head. You’d better keep the packing list saved on your phone for the next trip to Halong Bay and Vietnam.

Read more: What to Pack to Vietnam

4. Remember your basics

• Electronic needs: Stuff your phone chargers, camera chargers, charger adapter and power bank. If you plan to take a lot of photographs in Halong Bay, you should bring multiple batteries as well as multiple SD cards or a USB chord.
• Toiletries kit: Despite available soap, shampoo, conditioner, etc. in Halong Bay hotels and cruises, you’d better bring your own toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorants, shaving razors, skin care and cosmetic products.
• Special medication: In addition to your special treatments, bring some simple medications for nausea, pain and cold symptoms. If you take a Halong Bay Cruise, ginger tea will be good for sea sickness.
• Bug spray/insect repellent: If you’re going to join outdoor day excursions, especially trekking and hiking, the bug spray and insect repellent are really essential.
• Snack: In case you are a picky eater, bringing snack from home will help you avoid being hungry or allergic to some types of food.

5. Leave the inessentials

Overpacking is a top violation of every traveler. Before shoving everything into your suitcase, ask yourself “Do I really need three pairs of shoes?”, “Should I bring hair curler or hairdryer?”, etc. If you have to reconsider three times, please leave it at home. Remember minimalist packing is the most important tip to pack to Halong Bay.

Noted: Here are what not to bring while traveling to Halong Bay, especially some are prohibited by the Halong Bay Cruise

• Firearms, inflammables and sharp objects
• Illegal drugs and substances
• Irons, hot plates and kitchenware
• Alcoholic beverages
• Pillows and blankets
• Towels, hairdryers

6.Pack multi-purpose garments

It’s advisable to pack clothing appropriate for all types of weather, which significantly cuts down on your packing weight. Packing a little of all multi-purpose items, such as tank tops, t-shirts, long sleeves, jackets and jeans, will give you freedom to mix layers smartly.

While bringing a pair of sneakers and sandals is suitable for day excursions, a pair of nice shoes/high heels is perfect for night party in Halong Bay.

Noted: The must-know packing tip to Halong Bay is choosing clothes made from merino wool/polygeine instead of cotton. This type of material can be wearable multiple days in a row.

7. Take into account your itinerary

Apparently, your packing list depends on your activities in Halong Bay. If your trip is active with cave visiting, kayaking, swimming or climbing, make sure you pack your swimwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, slip resistant shoes, sandals, hiking boots, insect repellent and light clothing. When it comes to Halong Bay cruise, you should pack comfortable cotton and linen clothing. For those who experience an overnight Halong Bay cruise, you definitely need to prepare formal attire for dinner party on cruise.

8. Compartmentalize your suitcase

The best packing tip to save space in your suitcase is compartmentalizing. Odor from dirty clothes and shoes can seep into your clean clothes. If you don’t have time for laundry, use a plastic bag or a shoe sac to keep the clean separate from the dirty. In addition, sorting into categories like clothing, beauty products, etc. not only saves space but also saves time finding your stuff.

9. Leave room for souvenirs

The last packing tip in Halong Bay is leaving an empty space for souvenirs. Halong Bay is such a paradise of souvenirs that you will want to bring them all to home. So, don't forget to leave room for souvenirs. If you can’t minimalize your stuff, bring lightweight bag or extra pack within your luggage.

All in all, hope these 9 packing tips will guide you on smarter packing for your Halong Bay trip. 

Victory Cruise

Board the Halong Victory Cruise and sail through the majestic and picturesque Halong Bay. This luxurious cruise offers first-class accommodation where you can expect professional service and uncompromised comfort amidst the tranquil blue waters and clear open sky. Guests can savor the spectacular views and enjoy the cruise destinations or opt for try at kayaking in the bay. The ship is designed and decorated to reflect class and style, while the guest's cabin are equipped to provide you with the maximum level of comfort. For a comfortable journey with breathtaking views, Halong Victory Cruise makes a perfect choice of accommodation.

Viet Green Payment Policies

Flexibility is our strongest point. You can amend your booking when it is made. Just contact us at info@vietgreentravel.com with your booking number. Our reservations team is glad to amend your booking accordingly.