Before You Go Checklist

For current hours, prices, and announcements, start with Lonely Planet Ho Chi Minh City.

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Tan Son Nhat International Airport.

Check the best time for Saigon walking tours before you depart. Ensure your mobile phone is fully updated with the latest maps. Inform your hotel about your planned route for extra safety.

Review the walking tour essentials for Saigon to stay organized. Gather all necessary travel documents in a waterproof folder. Charge your devices overnight so they are ready for the morning.

Visit our main site for more travel tips. Read reviews of different tour operators to find the best fit. Prepare a small amount of local currency for minor expenses.

• Valid passport or digital copy for identification
• Fully charged power bank for your mobile devices
• Downloaded offline maps of the central district area
• Comfortable walking shoes with good arch support
• Lightweight and breathable cotton or linen clothing
• Travel insurance details saved on your phone
• Small denominations of local currency for street food
• Confirmation of the meeting point location details

On the Day Checklist

Start your morning with a light meal and plenty of water. Arriving early allows you to meet your guide and group. Knowing the finding walking tour meeting points process is very helpful.

Stay alert while crossing busy streets full of motorbikes. Keep your bag in front of you in crowded areas. Listen carefully to the safety briefing provided by your guide.

Take regular breaks in the shade to prevent heat exhaustion. Sip water frequently even if you do not feel thirsty. Capture photos quickly to keep up with the group pace.

Apply insect repellent if you are visiting parks or greenery. Check your belongings every time you leave a rest stop. Engage with your guide to learn about local culture.

• High SPF sunscreen applied before leaving the hotel
• Reusable water bottle filled with cold filtered water
• Small umbrella or light poncho for sudden rain
• Hand sanitizer or wet wipes for quick cleaning
• Hat or cap to protect from the sun
• Polarized sunglasses to reduce glare from the pavement
• Compact camera or smartphone for capturing city sights
• Small backpack to keep your hands completely free

Don't Pack Checklist

Carrying too much weight will tire you out very quickly. Avoid bringing heavy electronics that you will not actually use. Stick to the basics to keep your bag light and manageable.

Consider joining free walking tours in HCMC for a light experience. Leave expensive jewelry in your hotel safe for better security. Heavy clothing is not suitable for the tropical Saigon climate.

Minimalism is your best friend during a long city walk. Bulky items can make navigating narrow sidewalks quite difficult. Only pack the walking tour essentials for Saigon mentioned here.

Avoid carrying large amounts of cash in one single place. Do not bring items that are sensitive to high humidity. Check your bag weight before you leave your hotel room.

• Large professional tripods that are heavy to carry
• Excessive amounts of expensive jewelry or luxury watches
• Heavy denim jeans that trap heat and moisture
• Large laptop or bulky tablet devices for tours
• Multiple heavy guidebooks that take up bag space
• Uncomfortable high heels or formal dress shoes
• Large bottles of shampoo or unnecessary toiletries
• Thick winter coats or heavy wool sweaters

Common Mistakes Checklist

Many tourists forget to stay hydrated during the humid afternoons. Do not underestimate the intensity of the Vietnamese tropical sun. Understanding tipping for Ho Chi Minh City tours is also important.

Keep your belongings secure in crowded markets and busy streets. Avoid using your phone near the edge of the road. Motorbike snatchers can be a concern in very busy areas.

Dress respectfully when visiting local temples or government buildings. Cover your shoulders and knees to follow local cultural norms. Ignoring these rules might result in being denied entry.

Always carry a small amount of toilet paper or tissues. Public restrooms may not always provide these basic items. Stay aware of your surroundings to avoid losing your group.

• Forgetting to drink water regularly throughout the tour
• Wearing brand new shoes that cause painful blisters
• Neglecting to apply sunscreen every few hours
• Carrying your phone loosely in your back pocket
• Arriving late to the designated tour meeting point
• Not bringing enough small cash for local snacks
• Ignoring the local traffic flow when crossing roads
• Failing to check the weather forecast before leaving

Essential Items for Solo Travelers

Solo travelers should share their itinerary with a trusted friend. Keep a physical card from your hotel for the return. Following a popular Ho Chi Minh City walking route is safer.

Stay in well-lit areas if your tour ends late. Trust your instincts when interacting with strangers on the street. Keep your emergency contact information easily accessible at all times.

Download a translation app to help with basic Vietnamese phrases. This is very helpful when ordering food or asking directions. Having a local SIM card ensures you stay connected always.

Use reputable ride-hailing apps for your transport back home. These apps provide a record of your journey and driver. Always verify the vehicle plate before entering any car.

• Emergency contact numbers saved in your phone contacts
• Hotel business card with the address in Vietnamese
• Whistle or personal safety alarm for emergencies
• Backup cash hidden in a separate bag pocket
• Portable Wi-Fi device or local SIM card active
• Small first aid kit with basic bandages included