Planning a family trip to Vietnam? Awesome choice! I remember when we first considered taking our kids, I was a mix of excited and terrified. The vibrant culture, delicious food, and stunning landscapes were calling our names, but the thought of navigating it all with little ones felt daunting. But guess what? It was one of the best family adventures we’ve ever had! Here are my top 12 Vietnam family vacation tips for making your Vietnam travel with kids unforgettable.
1. Plan Your Route Wisely
Vietnam is a long country, and trust me, you don’t want to spend your entire vacation on buses or trains with restless kids. When planning your kid-friendly Vietnam itinerary, I highly recommend focusing on a specific region, like Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long Bay) or Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc). Flying between destinations is a great time-saver, and internal flights are generally quite affordable. When we went, we split our time between the North and South, flying from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. It saved us valuable time and kept the kids from getting too travel-weary.
2. Time It Right: Consider the Weather
Vietnam has diverse weather patterns, and what’s pleasant in one region might be monsoon season in another. Do your research! Vietnam family vacation tips often include that the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) offer the most agreeable temperatures and fewer crowds. Avoid the scorching summer months (May-August) if you can, especially if you’re planning outdoor activities. Also, be aware of the rainy season, which can vary depending on the region. We learned this the hard way during a downpour in Hoi An – let’s just say carrying two soaked kids and navigating narrow streets wasn’t my finest moment!
3. Pack Smart, Pack Light (But Pack Essentials!)
Less is definitely more when you’re traveling with kids. But don’t forget the essentials! Pack light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any medications your children might need. I always pack a small first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. Also, remember to bring along some familiar snacks to tide them over between meals. Trust me, a hangry toddler is not a fun travel companion. A lightweight stroller or baby carrier can also be a lifesaver, especially in crowded areas.
4. Embrace the Street Food (Safely!)
Vietnamese street food is incredible, and you absolutely have to try it! But with kids, it’s important to be cautious. Look for vendors that are busy with locals – that’s usually a good sign of quality and freshness. Best Vietnam activities for families include trying street food, but avoid food that’s been sitting out for a long time, and opt for cooked dishes over raw ones. I always carry hand sanitizer and wet wipes to clean our hands before eating. And don’t be afraid to ask for modifications – most vendors are happy to adjust the spice level or leave out certain ingredients for your little ones. My kids devoured pho and spring rolls, and I’m sure yours will too!
5. Accommodation: Choose Wisely
When traveling with kids, your accommodation can make or break your trip. I highly recommend opting for family-friendly hotels or apartments with amenities like a swimming pool, kids’ club, or on-site restaurant. Having a comfortable and convenient place to relax and recharge after a long day of sightseeing is essential. Consider booking accommodation with a kitchenette if you want to prepare some of your own meals. We often booked apartments with washing machines too – a huge plus when traveling with messy kids!
6. Transportation: Be Prepared
Navigating Vietnamese traffic can be an adventure in itself! When traveling with kids, safety is paramount. Avoid renting scooters or motorcycles unless you’re an experienced driver. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab are readily available and relatively inexpensive. I always recommend using a car seat or booster seat for younger children, although they’re not always readily available. Consider bringing your own travel car seat or booster, or inquire with the taxi company beforehand. For longer journeys, trains and buses are comfortable options, but be prepared for bumpy rides and potential delays.
7. Activities: Mix It Up!
Keep your kids engaged and entertained by mixing up your activities. Kid-friendly Vietnam itinerary options include balancing cultural experiences with fun, kid-friendly attractions. Visit temples and pagodas, but also spend time at parks, beaches, or water parks. Consider taking a cooking class, going on a boat trip, or visiting a local market. Don’t try to cram too much into each day – leave plenty of time for relaxation and downtime. My kids loved the water puppet show in Hanoi, and exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City was a fascinating (and slightly spooky!) experience.
8. Learn a Few Basic Vietnamese Phrases
Knowing a few basic Vietnamese phrases can go a long way in enhancing your travel experience and showing respect for the local culture. Learn how to say “hello” (xin chào), “thank you” (cảm ơn), and “please” (làm ơn). Even a simple “hello” and a smile can open doors and create positive interactions. Locals will appreciate your effort to communicate in their language, and it can also be helpful when ordering food or asking for directions. I found that using a translation app on my phone was also incredibly useful.
9. Be Prepared for Culture Shock
Vietnam is a vastly different culture than what you might be used to, and it’s important to prepare yourself and your children for potential culture shock. Be aware of local customs and etiquette, and dress respectfully when visiting temples or religious sites. Be prepared for crowds, noise, and different standards of hygiene. Talk to your children about the differences they might encounter and encourage them to be open-minded and respectful. Remember, experiencing different cultures is one of the greatest benefits of travel!
10. Take Advantage of Local Services
Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Vietnamese people are generally very friendly and helpful, and they’re often happy to assist tourists. If you need directions, recommendations, or help with anything, don’t hesitate to ask a local. Many hotels and tour operators offer family-friendly services, such as babysitting, kids’ clubs, and tailored tours. Taking advantage of these services can free up your time and allow you to relax and enjoy your vacation. We hired a local babysitter for an evening out, and it was well worth it!
Discover affordable travel options and budget-friendly tips in our Vietnam travel guide.
11. Slow Down and Enjoy the Moment
Best Vietnam activities for families remind us that one of the biggest mistakes I see people make when traveling with kids is trying to do too much. Resist the urge to cram every single sight and activity into your itinerary. Instead, slow down, take your time, and enjoy the moment. Allow for spontaneous adventures, unexpected detours, and plenty of time for relaxation. Remember, the goal is to create lasting memories with your family, not to check off a list of tourist attractions. My favorite memories from our Vietnam trip are the simple moments: watching the sunset over Ha Long Bay, playing in the sand on Phu Quoc Island, and sharing a delicious meal with my family.
12. Document Your Adventures
Don’t forget to capture all of your amazing memories! Take lots of photos and videos, and encourage your children to do the same. Kid-friendly Vietnam itinerary experiences are worth keeping in a travel journal and writing down your thoughts and feelings. When you get home, create a photo album or scrapbook to relive your adventures. These memories will be cherished for years to come. I love looking back at our photos from Vietnam and remembering all the fun we had as a family.
Traveling in Vietnam with kids sounds like an adventure! Definitely try the street food and cultural activities!
Have you tried a cooking class together? It’s such a fun bonding experience!