WHAT TO BRING AND WHAT NOT TO BRING FOR YOUR VIETNAM FAMILY TRIP

Packing for one can be tricky enough... Have I remembered everything? What about my passport? Did I pack a toothbrush? When kids are involved working out what to pack and what not to pack can get a whole lot more complicated. With these Vietnam travel tips and checklist of what to pack for your trip to Vietnam, you’ll have nothing to worry about.

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Keep Kids Entertained
Happy kids means happy parents. Plan activities ahead to keep the kids happy and amused. There is plenty to do in Vietnam, especially if you’re staying in the city of Ho Chi Minh, where you’ll find activity parks, sports centres, museums, and much more. With the long flights and possible long car, train or bus journeys ahead, it’s important to pack plenty of travel games and electronics to keep everyone happy, such as:

  • Playing cards
  • Colouring books (include pens or pencils)
  • Books
  • Tablet (with favourite films and games downloaded)
  • Chargers
  • Favourite toy (Probably best to avoid toy weapons)

Have A Plan
To save unnecessary stress, pre-arrange your transport. The easiest way to travel with kids in tow is taxi. In Vietnam most taxis can comfortably fit a family of four, while van taxis can fit more (these are harder to find though).
It is essential to book your hotel beforehand, as depending on the time you’re travelling, hotels can fill up quickly. Keep everyone happy and choose a hotel with plenty of facilities for the kids and somewhere for parents to catch up on the needed relaxation. Sherwood Residence is ideally located in Ho Chi Minh city, and offers fantastic spacious rooms perfect for families. The hotel is also well equipped with family-friendly facilities, including an outdoor pool area, table tennis, billiards and golf putting area, a playroom, mini cinema, game room and separate children’s pool, plus modern fitness centre, Finnish sauna and steam bath, ideal for parents to relax.

  • Travel itinerary (include taxi company phone numbers)
  • Hotel booking details (Sherwood Residence also offers travel assistance)
  • Travel book on Vietnam

Keep Safe and Healthy
In many parts of Vietnam, the lifestyle can be a little chaotic, so it’s important to keep close tabs on your kids, particularly when travelling around cities and markets.
A vacation can easily be ruined if one of the family gets ill, so plan ahead and protect the kids where possible, for instance:

  • Bandages and plasters
  • Headache tablets
  • Upset stomach remedies (Eat smart to avoid any stomach upsets)
  • Antiseptic
  • Insect protection (DEET)
  • Cortisone cream (for insect bites)
  • Anti-bacterial gel
  • Sun protection

Also, don’t forget essential toiletries:

  • Toothbrushes and toothpaste
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Wet wipes (and nappies?)

Appropriate Clothing and Shoes
If possible, travel light. Use a soft-shell bag or backpack, as this will be far easier when using transport, plus it’ll leave your hands free for holding onto the kids.
It’s a good idea to check the weather for the duration you’ll be staying in Vietnam, to avoid packing unnecessary clothing items and neglecting the ones you will need. Some of the more essential items are:

  • Light-weight rain jackets (Don’t bring heavy clothes as you’ll have to carry it around)
  • Light clothes that will dry easily (Don’t take your favourites as they might get ruined)
  • Hats
  • Sunglasses (It’s wise not to bring any expensive items, including jewellery)
  • Comfy walking shoes (You’re likely to do a fair bit of walking)

Don’t Forget the Essentials

  • Passports and visas
  • Travel insurance info
  • Cash (Some stores and restaurants only accept cash)