So, you’ve booked your dream cruise to Halong Bay — now comes the packing. Whether you’re taking a quick day trip or an overnight cruise, having the right gear can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.
To help you prepare, we’ve put together the ultimate Halong Bay packing list with essential items, travel tips, and what you can leave behind.
🎒 Travel Documents & Basics
Make sure these are at the top of your list:
- Passport (with valid visa if required)
- Cruise or tour booking confirmation
- Travel insurance
- Cash (VND) – for tipping, shopping on floating markets, or small expenses
- Credit/debit card – some luxury cruises accept cards
✅ Tip: Make copies or take photos of important documents in case of loss.
👕 Clothing Essentials
Halong Bay’s weather changes by season, so pack accordingly. Here’s a basic checklist:
🧳 For Warm Weather (April–October):
- Lightweight, breathable clothes
- T-shirts, shorts, sundresses
- Swimwear
- Light rain jacket or poncho (for summer showers)
- Hat or cap to protect from the sun
🧳 For Cooler Weather (November–March):
- Light sweaters or a jacket
- Long pants and long sleeves for chilly mornings/evenings
- A scarf or light gloves (especially in January or February)
✅ Tip: Even in summer, bring a light layer — it can get cool at night on the water.
🩴 Footwear
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers – for exploring caves and islands
- Flip-flops or sandals – for relaxing on the cruise or at the beach
- Water shoes (optional) – useful if you plan to kayak or visit rocky shores
🧴 Toiletries & Personal Items
Most mid-range and luxury cruises provide basic toiletries, but it’s still a good idea to bring:
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
- Shampoo & body wash (travel-size if needed)
- Sunscreen (reef-safe if kayaking/swimming)
- Mosquito repellent (especially in summer)
- Deodorant, face wash, moisturizer
- Personal medications and first-aid kit
- Motion sickness tablets or wristbands (if you’re prone to seasickness)
✅ Tip: Pack any medication in your carry-on in case your luggage is delayed or out of reach.
View more: Exploring Halong on a Budget: Travel Tips for Saving Money
📸 Electronics & Accessories
- Phone + charger
- Camera or GoPro – Halong Bay is incredibly photogenic!
- Portable power bank
- Waterproof phone case (for kayaking or boat transfers)
- Travel adapter (Vietnam uses 220V and standard plug types A, C, or F)
🏞️ Adventure & Activity Gear
If you’re joining an active itinerary:
- Dry bag or waterproof backpack
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunglasses (preferably polarized)
- Binoculars (if you enjoy bird-watching or scenic views)
- Small daypack for shore excursions
🚫 What NOT to Pack
- Expensive jewelry or unnecessary valuables
- Heavy luggage – storage space on boats is limited
- Loudspeakers or drones (many cruises ban them)
- Too many changes of clothes – keep it simple
✅ Tip: Pack light and smart — cruises are casual, and most travelers spend their time in comfy clothes or swimwear.
🧼 Sustainability Tip
Bring your own reusable water bottle, eco-friendly toiletries, and cloth bag for shopping or carrying items. Help keep Halong Bay beautiful and plastic-free!
🧳 Sample Packing Checklist for a 2-Day Cruise
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| T-shirts | 2–3 |
| Shorts/pants | 1–2 |
| Swimsuit | 1–2 |
| Jacket or sweater | 1 |
| Underwear & socks | Enough for trip |
| Comfortable shoes + flip-flops | 1 pair each |
| Toiletries kit | 1 |
| Passport & cash | ✔ |
| Camera/phone & charger | ✔ |
| Sunscreen & bug spray | ✔ |
✅ Final Tips Before You Go
- Pack a small overnight bag and leave larger suitcases in your Hanoi hotel (many offer free storage).
- Double-check the cruise itinerary for any special requirements.
- Bring a good book or journal — it’s the perfect place to relax and reflect.
With the right essentials packed, your Halong Bay trip will be smooth sailing (literally). Whether you’re swimming in emerald waters, watching sunset on the deck, or exploring ancient caves, you’ll be glad you came prepared.