Pre-Trip Checklist: Hoi An

Essential Preparations

A chronological guide to tasks before your departure.

Your Planning Timeline

Steps to take at different intervals for thorough readiness.

+ Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6+ months); apply for Vietnam e-visa.

Flights & Stays

Book international flights; reserve accommodations for peak season.

Health & Insurance

Consult doctor for vaccinations; Purchase travel insurance.

Month Before

Domestic Travel

Book domestic flights, trains, or buses within Vietnam.

Tours & Classes

Book popular tours (My Son, Cham Islands) and cooking classes.

Document Copies

Compile digital and physical copies of all important documents.

Week Before

Financial & Safety

Inform bank of travel plans; confirm emergency contacts.

Digital Readiness

Download essential apps (Grab, Google Maps, Translate).

Home Affairs

Notify family of itinerary; arrange mail, pet, and plant care.

Required Advance Bookings

Certain arrangements are best made well ahead of time.

Essential Reservations

International flights to secure optimal fares.
Your Vietnam visa (e-visa or approval letter).
Initial accommodation, especially during peak travel times.
Popular tours and unique experiences (e.g., cooking classes).

Pre-Trip Research Suggestions

Familiarize yourself with local culture and practical aspects.

Areas of Inquiry

Read about Vietnamese culture and etiquette.
Familiarize yourself with common local scams and safety tips.
Look up Hoi An's specific dishes to savor.
Review local transportation options.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Small steps at home contribute to a worry-free trip.

Security Measures

Secure all windows and doors.
Use timers for lights to indicate presence.
Unplug non-essential electronics.
Notify trusted neighbors of your absence.

Household Care

Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
Organize pet care if you have animals.
Plan for plant watering.
Empty perishable items from the fridge.

Financial & Contacts

Inform your bank of travel dates.
Share your itinerary with family and friends.
Write down emergency contacts.
Arrange transport to the airport.

Smart Tip

A physical copy of your passport, visa, and insurance details, separate from your main documents, can prove invaluable.

Arrival Checklist

Steps for a smooth transition upon reaching Hoi An.

Initial Actions at Da Nang Airport DAD

1
Immigration Process
Proceed through immigration and visa stamping (if Visa on Arrival).
2
Luggage Retrieval
Collect your checked baggage from the carousel.
3
Connectivity
Consider purchasing a local SIM card at the airport.

Settling into Hoi An

Currency Exchange
Exchange some VND or use an ATM for immediate cash.
Transport to Accommodation
Use pre-booked transfer, Grab, or reputable taxi to your hotel.
Local Orientation
Locate your hotel and take a walk around your neighborhood.

Pre-Departure Timing

Travel Time to Airport

Allow 45-60 minutes for travel from Hoi An to Da Nang Airport (DAD).

Add a buffer for unexpected traffic.

International Flights

Arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before your international flight.

This allows time for check-in, security, and customs.

Domestic Flights

Arrive 1.5-2 hours before domestic flights.

Domestic procedures are generally quicker.

Final Check

Confirm your onward flights or transport arrangements the day before departure.

Departure Preparation

Plan your exit from Hoi An carefully for a stress-free departure.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Factor in time for last-minute souvenir shopping.
If shipping large items, confirm arrangements and tracking details.
Be mindful of airline baggage weight limits for new purchases.
Inquire about VAT refund procedures for certain goods (not widely advertised).

Packing & Documents

Pack carefully, keep valuables in your carry-on bag.
Passport and boarding pass should remain readily accessible.
Print essential documents; store digital copies on devices and cloud.
Carry any necessary medications in your carry-on with prescriptions.

Visa Exemption Limits

Citizens from specific countries can enter Vietnam without a visa for short stays.

Maximum Stay Periods

ASEAN Nations:30 days
South Korea, Japan, Nordic countries:15 days
UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain:15 days
Check official Vietnamese government sources for the most current rules.

Visa Options & Fees

E-visa: Online application via official portal; up to 90 days, single entry.
Visa on Arrival (VOA): Approval letter obtained online, stamp at airport.
Traditional Visa: From Vietnamese Embassy/Consulate for longer/multiple entries.
E-visa fee: typically US$25. VOA stamping fee: US$25 (single) or US$50 (multiple).

Important Note

Always verify visa and entry information directly with the Vietnamese government or your local embassy.

Rules can change, so always seek the most current guidance.

Pre-Trip Checklist