What clothes to wear in Vietnam? A typical and common question that all travelers answer before going to Vietnam. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities, relaxing on pristine beaches, or trekking through mountain villages, your wardrobe choices can significantly impact your travel experience. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about dressing appropriately in Vietnam.
Factors that Affect What Clothes to Wear in Vietnam
Vietnam’s clothing requirements aren’t just about fashion – they’re influenced by various important factors that every traveler should consider. Here’s what impacts your clothing choices:
- Climate and Weather Patterns: Vietnam experiences distinct seasonal changes, with temperatures ranging from cool winters in the north to year-round warmth in the south. The country also faces monsoon seasons, requiring adaptable clothing choices.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Vietnamese society values modesty, particularly in rural areas and religious sites. Your clothing should reflect respect for local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples or participating in traditional events.
- Regional Differences: Each region of Vietnam has its unique characteristics. Northern Vietnam experiences all four seasons, central Vietnam faces frequent rainfall, and southern Vietnam maintains consistent tropical weather.
- Activities Planned: Your itinerary plays a crucial role. Temple visits require modest clothing, while beach activities allow for more casual attire. Adventure activities like trekking need specialized gear.
- Urban vs. Rural Settings: Cities tend to be more accepting of Western-style clothing, while rural areas are more conservative. Your clothing choices should adapt accordingly.
So, What Clothes to Wear in Vietnam?
The key to dressing in Vietnam is versatility and respectful modesty while ensuring comfort in varying weather conditions. Light, breathable fabrics work best across most situations, with layers available for cooler periods because to hot weather in Vietnam often comes with high humidity, and cold weather is often really dry.
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Here is a table to answer for the question: “What clothes to wear in Vietnam?” that our travel consultants have summarized for you in each region by month:
| Month | Region | Overall Weather | Suggested Clothes |
| Dec-Feb | Northern | Cool, dry, occasional drizzle | Light sweaters, long pants, layers, light jacket |
| Central | Mild, occasional rain | Light long-sleeves, convertible pants | |
| Southern | Warm, dry | Light cotton shirts, breathable pants | |
| Mar-May | Northern | Warm, increasing humidity | Light cotton clothes, rain jacket |
| Central | Hot, dry | Breathable shirts, lightweight pants | |
| Southern | Very hot | Loose cotton clothing, sun protection | |
| Jun-Aug | Northern | Hot, heavy rain | Quick-dry clothing, rain gear |
| Central | Hot, sunny | Light, loose clothing, sun protection | |
| Southern | Warm, frequent rain | Quick-dry fabrics, rain protection | |
| Sep-Nov | Northern | Mild, decreasing rain | Light layers, long sleeves |
| Central | Heavy rain, storms | Waterproof gear, quick-dry clothes | |
| Southern | Rainy season ending | Light, breathable clothing |
Vietnam is considered the country’s affordable shopping option, so it’s wise to pack minimally and reserve space in your luggage for items you may wish to purchase during your trip. This approach not only lightens your travel load but also allows for the enjoyment of local styles and souvenirs, enhancing your overall experience. By shopping after your arrival, you can take advantage of the local market offerings and ensure you have room for any unique finds.
What Shoes to Wear in Vietnam?
Footwear choice in Vietnam requires careful consideration for both comfort and practicality and the most important is based on your experiences to choose the suitable shoes:
- Walking Shoes: Comfortable, breathable sneakers for city exploration and light trekking
- Sandals: Waterproof sandals for casual wear and rainy season
- Flip-flops: Essential for beaches and easy removal when entering homes/temples
- Hiking Boots: Necessary only if planning serious trekking activities
Choose shoes that are easy to slip on and off, as you’ll frequently remove them when entering temples, homes, and some restaurants.
What Not to Wear in Vietnam?
In Vietnam’s major cities, such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, there is a notable openness to modern and Western styles. You’ll often see locals embracing contemporary fashion. However, as a Southeast Asian country, there are certain clothing choices that should be avoided in specific situations:
- Revealing Clothing: Short shorts, low-cut tops, or very short skirts – these can be disrespectful in Vietnamese culture and may restrict your access to religious sites
- Expensive jewelry: you should avoid wearing this on Saigon Street because you could face the snatch in this area.
- Tight or Transparent Clothing: These items are considered inappropriate, especially in rural areas
- All-White Clothing: you should avoid wearing all-white because white is associated with mourning in Vietnamese culture
- Impractical Footwear: High heels or delicate shoes aren’t suitable for Vietnam’s often uneven streets
FAQs
How should tourists dress in Vietnam?
Vietnam is quite open to dressing so tourists are free to wear whatever they want, as long as it is comfortable and not too offensive to those around them. You should dress modestly in lightweight, breathable clothing that covers shoulders and knees, especially in religious sites and rural areas.
Is it OK to wear shorts in Vietnam?
Yes, knee-length or longer shorts are acceptable in tourist areas and cities, but longer pants are more appropriate for temples and rural regions.
What clothing is worn in Vietnam?
Vietnamese wear their traditional clothing (the ao dai) on special occasions such as Tet (Lunar New Year) or traditional festivals, and casual Western-style clothing adapted for the climate for everyday wear.
Can I wear jeans in Vietnam?
Yes, lightweight jeans are better suited for cooler months or evening wear due to the humid climate.
Is it okay to wear red in Vietnam?
Yes, red is considered lucky in Vietnamese culture and is perfectly acceptable to wear.
Why were skirts banned in Vietnam?
Historically, very short skirts were discouraged during certain periods due to cultural values emphasizing modesty. But nowadays, skirts are widely used in the daily life of Vietnam for young ladies as well as women.
Can you wear sandals in Vietnam?
Yes, sandals are practical and commonly worn, especially in warm weather and casual settings. This is very suitable for beach and walking around on Vietnamese streets.
What do Vietnamese people wear on a daily basis?
Modern Vietnamese typically wear Western-style clothing adapted to the climate, with traditional wear reserved for special occasions.
What color ao dai should I get?
Pastels and bright colors are popular choices, though white is typically reserved for students.
Can you wear sleeveless in Vietnam?
Sleeveless tops are acceptable in casual settings and cities but should be avoided in temples and formal situations.
Remember, packing for Vietnam is about balancing comfort with cultural respect. Choose versatile pieces that can be layered or mixed and matched, and always keep a light scarf handy for covering up when needed. Focus on lightweight, breathable fabrics that dry quickly in the humid climate, and pack according to your specific travel season and planned activities.
Additionally, you can pack lightly for your trip to Vietnam and plan to shop for clothing once you arrive. The country offers a convenient shopping experience, with affordable prices and a wide variety of clothing and goods. By making thoughtful clothing choices, you’ll be well-prepared to immerse yourself in Vietnam’s rich culture and diverse experiences while staying comfortable throughout your journey.
Do you need more advice for your Vietnam tours for the best experiences? Contact our travel consultants for more!
>> Read more for traveling beyond Vietnam: Vietnam and Cambodia 2 Weeks: Perfect Itinerary & Complete Travel Guide
Thuy Dang – From Indochina Voyages Team
