Vietnam Camping Tips

If you are a camping enthusiast, Vietnam's national parks are a must-visit. The country's most popular camping sites include Cuc Phuong National Park, Ba Be National Park, and Bach Ma National Park. While hiking or trekking through the jungles or hill tribe villages in the mountainous regions, the likelihood of camping to enjoy adventurous nights immersed in nature is high. Expeditions to Fansipan Peak, often referred to as "the Roof of Indochina," offer a once-in-a-lifetime camping experience that shouldn't be missed.
Photo: viettravel.com 

A common question arises: how should you prepare for a camping trip in Vietnam? What essentials do you need for camping in this beautiful country?

If you book a hiking tour that includes camping through local travel agents, they will likely provide details on camping sites and typically supply tents and equipment. However, it's crucial to prepare your own food, water, first aid kit, and appropriate clothing. For added safety, consider packing a reflective emergency blanket, a whistle, high-energy snacks, ponchos, hats, gloves, and extra socks. If you plan to travel independently, ensure you have all necessary camping gear, as it may be challenging to find camping equipment and other essentials in Vietnam. Nevertheless, here are some places where you can source camping necessities:

Umove (Hanoi)
Address: 7 Cho Gao/ 65 Nguyen Thi Dinh, Hanoi

FanFan Travel Shop (Ho Chi Minh City)
Address: 61/4 Co Giang, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

When it comes to clothing, avoid cotton as it takes a long time to dry, which can lead to illness if you wear wet clothes for extended periods. Being a tropical country, Vietnam experiences frequent rain, making it wise to plan for the wet season carefully. It is advisable to avoid rainy seasons when humidity and sudden heavy rains can disrupt your travels. Although Vietnam does not experience harsh winters, temperatures can drop significantly in high-altitude areas, and the lack of heating can make it feel quite cold. Checking weather forecasts and climate reports for your travel destination before departure is a prudent practice.

Insects like mosquitoes, leeches, and snakes are notable wildlife concerns in Vietnam. The best way to mitigate these issues is to wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants instead of short sleeves and shorts. Additionally, bringing an effective insect repellent is essential, as is a well-stocked medical kit for emergencies.