Vietnam strikes most tourists as an East Asian cultural hub, a natural haven for getaways. But did you know that Vietnam can also provide interesting, new campgrounds? Whether you’re familiar or fresh to this choice, here we have for you our tailored Vietnam camping tips, straight from locals.
Vietnam Camping Tips #1: Ideal Time to Camp
Vietnam generally has two seasons: the dry season and the wet season. Obviously, the first option, which spans from October to March, is the best time to visit Vietnam since you can avoid heavy rainfall. However, keep in mind that December and January may be quite chilly.
You wouldn’t want to miss this view due to the rain
However, make sure to check the weather carefully as Vietnam’s climate does vary significantly in different regions.
Vietnam Camping Tips #2: Best Places to Camp in Vietnam
Vietnam has a plethora of options for camping. You can either choose a campground with fully-equipped facilities or be adventurous and opt for a mountain or a trekking route. Here are some of the best places to camp in Vietnam.
Son Tinh Camp, Hanoi
Son Tinh Camp is a popular choice for foreigners because of the abundance of activities here
Bidoup Mountain, Lam Dong Province
Bidoup Mountain is dubbed “the roof” of Lam Dong Province in Vietnam’s Central Highlands
Starfish Campsite, Khanh Hoa Province
Camping by one of Vietnam’s most beautiful seas is an ideal choice for a summer getaway
Ta Nang – Phan Dung Trek
Ta Nang – Phan Dung is Vietnam’s most charming and most challenging trekking route
Vietnam Camping Tips #3: Camping Gears You Need
Camping starter-pack
Camping in a foreign country is fun and all, but before that, preparation is vital. Unless you’re staying in a campground, here’s everything else you’ll need for outdoor camping:
The essentials:
- Passport-visa
- Contacts of your friends and/or travel agency
- Vietnam’s emergency numbers
- Mobile phone (with working 3G/4G)
- Tents and sleeping bags/bedding (Get a Bessport Backpacking Tent for a family of 4)
- Comfortable footwear (preferably trainers)
- Insect repellent
- Stainless steel water bottles (Get the Embrava 40oz Water Bottle here)
- First-aid kit
- High-energy food: bread, potatoes, protein bars…
- Raincoats/Umbrella
- Hats, socks (and mittens if it’s in the winter)
- Personal hygiene kit, toilet paper, tissues
A travel journal is a great way to record your memorable trip
For camping enthusiasts:
- Entertainment: books, travel diary, … or better yet sign up for Audible Membership!
- Compass, map of the area
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Flashlight & batteries
- Camping light
- Smith & Wesson pocket knife
- Small water purifier (suitable for camping for 2-3 days)
- Camping cooking utensils
For people who are not a fan of camping:
- Comfortable outdoor futon (instead of the old-fashioned folding chair)
- Coleman cooler to store food and save you the pain of cooking in the wild
- A firepit because not everyone can start a fire
- Portable coffee maker for your daily dose of caffeine
- Tent heater, in case your feet get cold at night
Some packing tips for a compact, yet useful, camping backpack
Addresses to buy camping gear in Vietnam:
Ho Chi Minh City:
- Dan Sinh Market, District 1
- Saigon Square (77-89 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 1)
- FanFan (61/4 Co Giang Street, District 1, HCMC)
Hanoi:
- Along Pham Ngu Lao Street and Hang Khay Street
- FanFan (73B Mai Hac De Street, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi)
Da Nang: FanFan (111 Nguyen Van Thoai Street, An Hai Dong Ward, Son Tra District, Da Nang)
A Local Take on Vietnam Camping Tips
Don’t leave your prints on the environment after your trip
- Clean up your garbage to protect the environment
- Check all your belongings before leaving the campground
- If you’re new to camping, choose a more touristy campsite, or book a hiking tour
- Check the weather forecasts beforehand, but prepare for everything since Vietnam’s weather can change quite abruptly
Insect repellent, in addition to suitable clothing, will save you from unwanted bites
- Look out for leeches and snakes (especially during the wet season); wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to avoid any insect bites or stings.
- In Vietnam, Viettel SIM card provides the best service in mountainous/rural areas.
- Opt for bottled/boiled water, avoid river water, and even tap water.
- Sign up for a travel insurance plan upon your camping trip in Vietnam:
Final Thoughts on Vietnam Camping Tips
Vietnam has long been known as an amazing spot for a wellness tour, a cultural tour, and an eco-tour. But after this article, we hope you’ll see that Vietnam is also a hidden gem when it comes to camping.
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