Pre-Trip Checklist: Tam Coc

Essential Preparations

Follow this timeline for a worry-free start.

Chronological Planning

Break down your trip planning into manageable phases.

Months Before

Passport Validity

Passport valid for 6 months beyond return.

Visa Research

Apply for e-visa or traditional visa with ample time.

International Flights

Book flights to Hanoi (HAN) for better prices, especially in high season.

Month Before

Accommodation

Reserve Tam Coc homestay/hotel, other Vietnam stays, important for high season.

Internal Transport

Secure train/limousine van tickets Hanoi-Ninh Binh, especially for weekends/holidays.

Health & Wellness

Consult doctor for vaccinations and prescription refills.

Week Before

Confirm Bookings

Double-check all your flight, accommodation, and tour reservations.

Documents

Organize passport, e-visa, insurance, health papers; make digital copies.

Packing

Pack climate-appropriate clothing, a first-aid kit, and activity-specific gear.

Reservations

Flights, popular accommodations, and long-distance transport secure your spot and price.

Advance Bookings

Passport validity for 6 months beyond return.
Visa application process as early as possible.
Booking flights to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi.
Consider World Nomads travel insurance.

At Home Before Departure

Arrange for pet care, hold mail, notify friends of itinerary, secure your home.

Home Preparation

Acquire a Universal travel adapter for Vietnam.
Notify your bank of travel plans.
Buy a compact Travel first aid kit.
Download offline maps and translation apps.

Pre-Trip Research

Beyond logistics, read about Vietnamese culture, history, and basic etiquette. Familiarize yourself with common scams.

Cultural Etiquette

Learn basic greetings and polite phrases.
Know when to remove shoes.
Ask permission before taking photos of locals.
Observe dining customs.

Historical Background

Read about Vietnam's ancient history.
Understand major historical events.
Appreciate the country's resilience.
Connect history with current sites.

Scam Awareness

Familiarize yourself with common tourist scams.
Be wary of unexpected "free" services.
Understand motorbike rental pitfalls.
Stay informed to avoid common traps.

Important Reminder

Research Vietnamese culture, history, etiquette, and common scams beforehand. This enhances your journey.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in a new destination. This checklist guides your initial steps upon arriving in Vietnam.

First Hours in Vietnam

Clear Immigration
Present passport and visa documents. Biometric collection.
Collect Luggage
Retrieve checked bags from baggage claim.
Currency Exchange/ATM
Exchange small cash at airport; seek better rates in Ninh Binh city.

Orientation & Purchases

Purchase Local SIM Card
Buy a local SIM card (e.g., Viettel) at the airport for immediate connectivity.
Familiarize Surroundings
Locate nearby restaurants, convenience stores, and main roads.
Buy Bottled Water
Tap water is not safe to drink; purchase bottled water immediately.

Transportation from Entry Point to Accommodation

Noi Bai Airport to Hanoi

Use an airport bus, taxi, or Grab to reach your onward transport hub in Hanoi.

Hanoi to Ninh Binh

Choose a train, public bus, or a pre-booked private car for comfortable travel.

Ninh Binh to Tam Coc

Take a taxi, Grab, or arrange a pick-up with your accommodation, confirming cost beforehand.

Getting Around

From Noi Bai Airport to Hanoi: airport bus, taxi, Grab. From Hanoi to Ninh Binh: train, bus, private car. From Ninh Binh to Tam Coc: taxi, Grab, or pre-arranged pickup.

Departure Preparation

A smooth exit from Tam Coc and Vietnam.

Souvenirs & Logistics

Purchase souvenirs a day or two before departure.
Inquire with shops about shipping services for larger items.
Be mindful of your airline's luggage weight limits.
VAT refund typically applies to high-value items at authorized stores; unlikely for most Tam Coc purchases.

Timely Departure

Depart Tam Coc 5-6 hours before international flight from Hanoi.
Factor in travel time (1.5-2.5 hrs van, 2.5-3 hrs train) plus airport check-in (2-3 hrs).
Confirm return flight details; check in online if possible.
Repack luggage, access documents (passport, boarding pass, cash).

Final Tip

Clear your phone of unnecessary photos to create space for new memories.

Pre-Trip Checklist