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Essential Preparations

Essential Preparations

Central Vietnam, Vietnam

Planning Timeline

Follow these steps for a complete trip preparation.

Strategic Planning

Organize your preparations across phases.

1

+ Months Before

Passport Valid:

Passport valid 6+ months beyond return date.

Visa Needs:

Research Vietnam visa requirements for your nationality.

Visa Application:

Apply for e-visa or visa on arrival approval letter.

2

Month Before

Domestic Travel:

Domestic flights/trains secured.

Accommodation:

Accommodation bookings for entire stay.

Tour Planning:

Major tours/activities outlined and booked.

3

Week Before

Confirm Bookings:

Confirm all bookings (flights, accommodation, tours).

Pack Essentials:

Pack climate-appropriate clothing and items.

Local Currency:

Arrange for initial local currency (VND).

Pre-Trip Essentials

Important arrangements prior to travel.

Visa & Insurance

  • Passport validity confirmed for 6 months beyond return.
  • Visa requirements researched and applied for.
  • Comprehensive Travel insurance purchased.
  • Major international flights booked.

Itinerary & Health

Detail your travel plan and health readiness.

Itinerary & Health

  • Domestic flights/trains and accommodation secured.
  • Major tours/activities planned and booked.
  • International Driving Permit (if needed) obtained.
  • Consulted doctor for recommended vaccinations.

Final Checklist

Last-minute tasks for a smooth departure.

Document Copies

  • Print copies of passport, visa, insurance.
  • Save digital copies in cloud storage.
  • Keep digital copies on phone.
  • Original documents secure.

App Downloads

  • Grab app downloaded.
  • Google Maps with offline maps.
  • Google Translate with Vietnamese pack.
  • Currency converter app.

Home Arrangements

  • Trusted contacts informed of itinerary.
  • Pet care arranged.
  • Mail delivery suspended.
  • Home secured.

Reminder for Travelers

Consider all aspects of your journey before heading out for a comfortable trip.

Arrival & Departure

Streamlined processes for entry and exit.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs:

    Passport and visa documents ready. Collect luggage and clear customs.

  • 2
    Currency Exchange:

    Exchange foreign currency to VND or withdraw cash from an ATM.

  • 3
    Local SIM Card:

    Purchase a local SIM card for mobile data and connectivity.

Initial Orientation

  • Arrange Transport:

    Grab app for reliable and transparent pricing. Licensed taxis from official stands are good.

  • Locate Services:

    Find nearby restaurants, pharmacies, and ATMs upon accommodation arrival.

  • Small Denominations:

    Get small VND for taxi rides, street food, and tipping.

Departure Considerations

Souvenirs & Shipping

Allow time for souvenir shopping.

Inquire about shipping services at markets or dedicated centers for large items.

VAT Refunds

Vietnam has a VAT refund scheme for foreign tourists on certain goods.

Applicable for purchases at authorized shops. Processed at international airports.

Airport Timing

Refer to flight details for recommended airport arrival times for international and domestic flights.

Arrive early for train/bus stations too.

Final Departure Notes

Confirm flight details or onward travel plans.

Pack luggage according to airline rules. All necessary documents, like your passport and boarding passes, should be easily accessible.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for a smooth departure from Da Nang.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

  • Allow ample time for last-minute souvenir shopping.
  • If shipping large items, inquire about services well before departure.
  • Check at markets or dedicated shipping centers.
  • Plan timing for shipping services.

Pre-Departure Timing

  • Refer to flight details for recommended airport arrival times.
  • For international and domestic flights.
  • Also relevant for train/bus stations.
  • Confirm onward travel plans.

VAT Refund Procedures

Vietnam has a VAT refund scheme for foreign tourists on certain goods.

Steps

  • Applies to purchases at authorized shops.
  • Processed at international airports.
  • Keep receipts for eligible purchases.
  • Inquire about the process from retailers.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm flight details or onward travel plans.
  • Pack luggage according to airline baggage rules.
  • Passport and boarding passes should be easily accessible.
  • All necessary documents at hand.

Smooth Exit

A well-prepared departure leaves a positive final impression.

Plan your final moments efficiently.