Ho Chi Minh City Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Travel Guide
A structured approach ensures readiness for your trip.
A step-by-step guide for smooth travel.
Check your passport validity. It must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Vietnam. Renew if necessary.
Research Vietnam's visa policies for your passport. Apply for an e-visa or traditional visa if needed.
Book international flights and major accommodation, especially if traveling during peak season (December-February) or the Tet Lunar New Year holiday.
Book internal flights, train tickets, or long-distance bus tickets. Plan a rough itinerary, including significant landmarks and day trips.
Arrange comprehensive Travel insurance from World Nomads.
Consult your doctor for vaccinations and assemble a basic Travel first-aid kit.
Reconfirm all flight, hotel, and tour bookings. Check the Ho Chi Minh City weather forecast and adjust your packing list.
Inform your bank and your credit card providers about your trip plans. Arrange for international roaming or plan to purchase a local SIM card. Download key applications and offline maps. Consider a VPN service like NordVPN.
Print physical copies of all essential documents and store digital copies in the cloud. Convert some currency to USD (for VOA stamping fee if applicable) or have some small VND ready.
Secure these items in advance to avoid disappointment.
Deepen your understanding of Ho Chi Minh City.
Ensure peace of mind before you leave.
Create a packing list and check off items as you pack. This aids in avoiding forgotten items.
These steps ensure a smooth entry and initial hours in Ho Chi Minh City.
Proceed to immigration. Show your passport and visa/e-visa.
Collect your luggage.
Pass through customs.
Withdraw Vietnamese Dong (VND) from an ATM or exchange currency at an authorized counter.
Purchase a local SIM card at one of the kiosks in the airport terminal. Install and activate it.
Organize transportation to your accommodation. Use Grab (preferred) or a reputable taxi company (Vinasun/Mai Linh) from designated stands. Avoid unofficial touts.
Exchange a small amount of currency at the airport for immediate needs. Better exchange rates are often available in the city.
Purchase bottled water and any immediate necessities from a convenience store.
Use the Pick up app for a fixed-price ride. Go to official taxi stands for Vinasun or Mai Linh. If you arranged one, locate your pre-booked driver.
Avoid unofficial touts.
Have the address of your accommodation written down or on your phone in Vietnamese to show your driver.
This helps avoid any confusion.
Resist the urge to accept rides from touts inside the airport. Head directly to official taxi or Grab pick-up points.
Prepare for your departure efficiently to avoid last-minute stress.
Critical procedures for document loss.
Keep your passport, boarding pass, and any VAT refund forms in an easily accessible location for efficient processing at the airport.
Leave enough time to enjoy a final Vietnamese coffee or meal at the airport before your flight.
