🇻🇳 This Is ALL You Need to Pack for Your Ho Chi Minh Trip. Seriously. Real Essentials + Apps From People Who Actually Went 💥 (Seriously, You’ll Regret It If You Miss This…)
“Ugh, I wanna go to Ho Chi Minh right now, but I have no idea what to pack!”
If you’re dreaming of a solo trip to Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam while caught up in your busy life, you’ve probably had this thought. I get it — I’ve been there too! So I made this checklist based on real solo travel experience. No fluff, no Pinterest-pretty nonsense — just what actually worked!
📱 Must-Have Travel Apps for Ho Chi Minh
Your phone is basically your best travel buddy. These apps saved me from getting lost, overpaying, and feeling stuck. Get them before you fly!
✨ Quick Overview:
- Grab: Uber of Southeast Asia. Taxi, bike, food delivery. Use it constantly.
- Google Maps: Great for directions, not for reviews.
- Flightradar24: Track your flight & see if Fast Track is needed (smart move!).
- Google Translate / Papago: Communicate anywhere. Download offline packs.
- Klook / KKday: Book eSIMs, tours, Fast Track in advance.
- Vexere: Intercity buses & vans — the 9-seater van? Chef’s kiss.
💡 Pro Tip: Screenshot your bookings. Wi-Fi isn’t everywhere, and it saves time at check-in & tour meetups.
🧳 The Real Ho Chi Minh Packing Checklist
I cut out the useless stuff and focused on what actually helped. These are the travel must-haves — nothing more, nothing less.
🛂 Travel Docs & Money Essentials
- Passport (6+ months validity) → Save a photo to cloud!
- Travel Insurance → For emergencies, delays, peace of mind
- eSIM or SIM Card → Instant internet via Airalo, Klook, etc.
- Flight & Hotel Confirmations → Screenshot everything
- Master/Visa Card x2 → One backup in case of failure
- Cash → Vietnam still loves cash. Bring some in advance.
- Vietnam Wallet → Helps organize all the crazy denominations
🧴 Health, Safety & Skincare
- Shower Filter → Trust me, your skin will thank you
- Mosquito Repellent → Spray + roll-on combo is best
- Sunscreen → Sweat-proof or mineral formula
- Medications → Cold/fever, painkillers, digestive pills (3–4 of each)
🔋 Tech & Solo Travel Gear
- Power Bank (Fast Charge) → You’ll use your phone constantly
- 3-Fold Selfie Stick (with remote) → For solo shots & reels!
- MagSafe Ring Holder → For filming or hands-free video calls
🧼 Hygiene Musts
- Wet & Dry Wipes → For food, street eats, restrooms
- Hand Sanitizer → Obvious but vital
💡 These all fit in carry-on. You’re not overpacking, just over-preparing like a legend.
✨ Real TMI Travel Tips from Me (Don’t Learn the Hard Way)
🚨 Watch Out for Taxi Scams Even Grab drivers can be sketchy. Always book through the app and confirm the plate number. NEVER take a ride from someone who walks up offering one.
🛂 Strategize Fast Track at the Airport Use Flightradar24 to check congestion for your arrival. If it’s stacked? Book Fast Track. Worth it.
🛵 Motorbike Taxis = Vibes Use GrabBike at least once — it’s chaotic but unforgettable.
💬 Final Thoughts: Pack Smart, Travel Happy
Ho Chi Minh is beautiful chaos — in the best way. But solo travel means you handle everything. So this list? It’s your backup squad.
Did I miss anything? Got questions? Drop them below, and I’ll spill even more Ho Chi Minh solo travel tea ☕
🔍 Explore More Vietnam Travel Tips:
• 🗺 5-Day Ho Chi Minh to Mui Ne Itinerary
• 🏨 Pandanus vs. Bamboo Resort Comparison