What to Pack for Hanoi: Rainy Streets, Cool Mornings, Temples
From Hoan Kiem sunrise strolls to steamy Old Quarter nights, pack quick-dry layers, a compact hooded rain jacket, grippy low-profile sneakers, a crossbody bag that zips, and a light scarf for temple shoulders.
Updated on October 1, 2025
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Days in Hanoi move from lakeside strolls and alleyway snacks to late bowls of noodles and unhurried evening cafés. You can’t pack for every scenario, so aim for a breathable capsule anchored by one smart rain layer and shoes that like distance, with a bag that stays close in scooter flow. This guide keeps comfort and respect in balance, so you look right from the Old Quarter to temple courtyards.
Dress codes are relaxed but tidy, and locals favor clean lines over logos. Loose, breathable layers in navy, khaki, and olive feel right in cafés, markets, and museums. By day the vibe is easy. At night one quiet upgrade, like a crisp shirt or scarf, sharpens the look without fuss. For temples and pagodas, cover shoulders and knees and expect to slip off shoes in some spaces.
Weather sets the pace. From June to September, monsoon storms roll in fast, turning 82–95°F days into slick streets and air thick with humidity. Winter from November to February is cool and damp, often 54–68°F with foggy mornings that bite more than the numbers suggest. Spring and autumn sit in the 59–77°F sweet spot with clearer air. Carry a packable rain shell and a light scarf.
To make this simple, we’ll start with the core clothing layers and rain gear that earn space in Hanoi, then dial in footwear that grips wet tiles and handles scooter-heavy crossings. We’ll cover respectful temple outfits, electronics and power, documents and money, health and sun protection, safety pointers, seasonal adjustments, activity picks around the city, and what to skip.
Part 1: Packing Essentials
Packing List
Adults
Clothing
Essentials
Kids Clothing
Infant Clothing
Infant Essentials
Hanoi Day Bag Checklist
What you'll carry for a typical day exploring the city.
Part 2: Style & Weather
Hanoi Weather & Scooter-Ready Packing Guide
Hanoi's humid subtropical climate brings hot, muggy summers with heavy monsoon rains (Jun–Sep, often 82–95°F), cool damp winters with fog and mornings around 54°F (Nov–Feb), and variable spring and autumn (59–77°F). Expect sudden downpours and high humidity year-round.
Monthly Temperature Guide
| Month | High | Low |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | 68°F | 55°F |
| Feb | 72°F | 57°F |
| Mar | 77°F | 63°F |
| Apr | 84°F | 70°F |
| May | 88°F | 75°F |
| Jun | 91°F | 79°F |
| Jul | 93°F | 81°F |
| Aug | 93°F | 79°F |
| Sep | 90°F | 77°F |
| Oct | 84°F | 72°F |
| Nov | 77°F | 64°F |
| Dec | 70°F | 57°F |
Seasonal Insights
spring
Spring (Mar–May) 59–77°F: layer breathable cotton/linen with a light merino or thin fleece. Pack quick-dry trousers, a compact rain shell and low-profile grippy sneakers for wet Old Quarter alleys. Keep a light scarf for temple shoulder coverage.
summer
Summer (Jun–Sep) 82–95°F: heavy monsoon rains and intense humidity. Pack quick-dry shirts, breathable shorts or linen trousers, a compact waterproof shell and grippy sandals. Bring a small crossbody and high-SPF sunscreen.
fall
Fall (Oct–Nov) 59–77°F: mild days, cool breezy evenings. Layer a long-sleeve breathable shirt with a light windproof jacket and quick-dry trousers. Wear grippy sneakers; pack a compact umbrella and a scarf for damp mornings.
winter
Winter (Dec–Feb) 54–68°F: cool, damp mornings — humidity adds chill. Layer a merino base, light fleece or packable down and a windproof shell. Wear grippy waterproof sneakers, pack a scarf; quick-dry underwear helps.
Hanoi Style Compass: Breathable Layers & Temple Etiquette
Hanoi’s fashion is pragmatic: breathable cottons and linens for hot, humid days; quick-dry and light merino for damp winters; a compact waterproof shell for sudden monsoon downpours. Embrace loose, rollable silhouettes that respect temple modesty while surviving scooter-choked streets and street-food spills. Prioritize fabrics that wash easily and layers that adapt to 12–35°C seasonal swings.
The Local Dress Code
Casual city wear is common, but temples and older neighborhoods expect covered shoulders and knees; bring a light scarf or knee-length skirt/shorts for visits. Avoid flashy jewelry; remove shoes at some shrines. Dress comfortably for humid 28–35°C summers and damp 12–20°C winters with moisture-managing layers.
A practical style guide for Hanoi: breathable layers, compact rain gear, scooter-friendly bags and modest temple wear. Pack fabrics that dry fast and shoes made for wet cobbles and long Old Quarter walks.
Style at a Glance
- • Pack breathable cotton, linen and quick-dry synthetics
- • Layer lightweight merino or fleece for damp 12–20°C mornings
- • Carry a compact waterproof shell and small umbrella for monsoon rains
- • Choose low-profile grippy shoes for cobbles and scooters
- • Keep shoulders and knees covered for temples; use a scarf
Color Palette
Shopping in the City
Shop for quick-dry basics, tailored linen pieces and waterproof shells. Favor local tailors for perfect fits and pick compact, scooter-friendly accessories. Expect a range from markets to boutique ateliers.
Brands to Look For
Cocoon Hanoi: Locally made breathable linen and cotton separates ideal for hot, humid days and easy packing; simple cuts that layer well. ($$ - $$$)
Ngan Studio: Contemporary pieces with durable quick-dry fabrics and understated silhouettes that suit temple visits and city strolls. ($$ - $$$)
Linh Tailoring: Expert tailoring and alterations for trousers and blazers—perfect for customizing silhouettes to scooter-friendly proportions. ($ - $$)
Mistral Outdoors VN: Compact waterproof shells and travel-ready rain gear designed for monsoon months and wet cobbles. ($$ - $$$)
Hoan Craft: Handmade leather and canvas crossbody bags with secure closures made to survive crowded markets and scooter rides. ($$ - $$$)
Saigon Soles: Local footwear focused on grippy low-profile sneakers and water-resistant slip-ons suited to uneven, wet sidewalks. ($ - $$)
Where to Shop
Hang Gai / Boutique Streets: Independent designers, tailored linen and contemporary ready-to-wear.
Old Quarter Markets: Budget quick-dry basics, sandals, and tailors for fast alterations.
Neighborhood Vibes
Old Quarter: Functional, streetwise — breathable tops, low-profile sneakers, and compact crossbody bags work best for narrow alleys, scooter traffic, street food stops and short staircases.
French Quarter: A slightly dressier palette: relaxed linen trousers, lightweight blazers or neat knitwear and loafers for café culture, colonial architecture and museums.
West Lake & Tay Ho: Casual-neat weekend style: airy dresses, relaxed khaki trousers and sandals for lakeside cafés, light layers for cooler foggy mornings and tai chi walks.
Seasonal Outfit Formulas
spring
Morning Tai Chi Ready — Early-morning tai chi at Hoan Kiem Lake when temps sit around 15–20°C.
- • Lightweight merino long-sleeve: Breathable warmth for cool mornings
- • Relaxed linen trousers
- • Grippy low-profile sneakers: Good traction on wet paths
- • Packable wind scarf
Old Quarter Stroll — Afternoon wandering and street-food tasting in warm 18–25°C spring weather.
summer
Monsoon Market Run — Heavy afternoon showers expected; plan 28–33°C humidity and sudden downpours.
Scooter Tour Ready — Guided scooter tour through Old Quarter at hot humid 30–35°C; keep valuables secure.
fall
Autumn Street Photography — Mild 18–25°C days ideal for Old Quarter photography and walking tours.
Museum Afternoon — Visiting museums and colonial sites in comfortable 16–22°C conditions; dress neat-casual.
winter
Foggy Morning Layers — Damp 12–16°C mornings around the lake—layer merino and a windproof shell for chill without bulk.
Temple in the Mist — Visiting pagodas on cool damp days—modest, moisture-wicking layers and easy shoe removal.
Footwear Guidelines
- • Prioritize grippy low-profile sneakers for Old Quarter cobbles and long walks
- • Bring comfortable strapped sandals for hot dry spells and quick market stops
- • Pack water-resistant slip-ons for sudden showers and easy shrine removal
- • Consider lightweight walking shoes for day trips and uneven terrain
Accessory Guidelines
- • Crossbody anti-theft bag with secure zip for scooter-heavy streets
- • Light scarf for temple coverage and damp morning warmth
- • Compact travel umbrella and a hooded waterproof shell for monsoon months
- • Sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen for sunny afternoons near Hoan Kiem Lake
- • Small money organizer for VND bills and coins accepted by street vendors
What to Wear for Hanoi — Weather, Scooters & Temples
Old Quarter Walking & Photography
Old Quarter's narrow alleys are photogenic but busy - dress for humidity and quick movement.
Street-Food & Night Market Tasting
Hanoi's night markets are culinary adventures - pack for messy, humid evenings and quick seat changes near scooter traffic.
Temple & Pagoda Visits
Temples demand respectful, modest clothing - cover shoulders and knees, and be prepared to remove shoes at some shrines.
Hoan Kiem Lake Strolls & Morning Tai Chi
Early-morning walks at Hoan Kiem are cool and peaceful - great for light layers and slip-on shoes for easy removal.
Motorbike & Guided Scooter Rides
Scooter traffic defines Hanoi - choose secure bags, low-profile shoes, and plan for sudden rain and close passenger seating.
Day Trips (Ninh Binh & Perfume Pagoda)
Popular day trips demand flexible clothing for varied terrain - expect humidity, short hikes, and temple modesty on arrival.
Museum & Colonial Architecture Visits
Colonial boulevards and museums need smart-casual layers - comfortable yet respectful attire works for long indoor visits and photo stops.
Evening Water Puppet Theatre & Nightlife
Evening performances and nightlife range from traditional theatres to lively bars - dress smart-casual and be ready for humid, late nights.
Part 3: Expert Tips
What Not to Pack for Hanoi — Avoid These Common Mistakes
Save luggage space and avoid common overpacking mistakes by leaving these items behind.
- • Stiletto heels or unstable high heels: Stiletto heels are unsafe on narrow, uneven Old Quarter pavements and wet cobbles during monsoon rains; pack grippy low-profile sneakers or strapped sandals instead for stability and scooter crowds.
- • Bulky checked luggage for Old Quarter trips: Bulky checked suitcases get stuck on narrow alleys and stairs; choose a compact carry-on or backpack for easy stair climbs and scooter pickups, or use local laundry and tailoring services.
- • Heavy winter parka: A heavy down parka is overkill for Hanoi's damp winters (averaging 12–20°C); bring lightweight insulating layers, a packable windproof shell and a small scarf to combat chill without bulk.
- • Bright flashy expensive jewelry: Flashy jewelry attracts pickpockets and motorbike snatchers in crowded markets; leave valuable pieces at home, swap for a simple watch or inexpensive costume jewelry, and keep valuables concealed.
- • Open-toe flip-flops as sole footwear: Thin flip-flops offer no traction on wet cobbles and little protection for scooter-filled streets; bring strapped sandals or low-profile water-resistant shoes for walks, wet-season puddles, and temple visits.
- • Heavy cotton jeans: Thick cotton jeans trap humidity and take long to dry after sudden 28–35°C downpours; swap for quick-dry travel pants or lightweight linen blends that wash and dry quickly between street-food stops.
- • Large bulky camera tripod: A full-size tripod is hard to lug through crowded Old Quarter alleys and on scooter rides; use a compact gorillapod, travel monopod, or a sturdy camera strap for handheld shots and tight stairs.
- • Strong scented perfumes and aftershaves: Strong fragrances can overwhelm crowded market alleys, temples and public transport; opt for unscented or lightly scented products, and carry travel-sized deodorant to stay fresh without offending locals.
- • Heavy mountaineering boots: Heavy mountaineering boots are overkill for Hanoi's city terrain and wet 28–35°C monsoon streets; pick lightweight water-resistant walking shoes with grippy soles or compact hiking sneakers.
- • Excessive paper guidebooks: Large guidebooks add weight and quickly go out of date; use offline map apps, a concise printed list of addresses, or buy a local SIM for data and navigation in narrow Hanoi alleys.
Hanoi Essentials: Rain, Scooters & Temple Etiquette
Local wisdom and practical advice gathered from seasoned travelers and residents.
- • Pack a breathable rain shell: Bring a compact waterproof jacket with hood for monsoon months (June–Sep) — sudden downpours and 28–35°C heat mean you need breathability and a stowable shell for sweaty street-food walks.
- • Choose breathable, quick-dry fabrics: Opt for linen, breathable cotton and quick-dry synthetics for Hanoi's 28–35°C summers and sticky humidity; fabrics that wash fast reduce luggage and suit street-food spills.
- • Small crossbody, anti-theft bag: Use a low-profile crossbody with concealed zips for crowded sidewalks and scooter traffic; keep passports and cash inside inner pockets to prevent snatch theft and ease quick payment at markets.
- • Low-profile grippy shoes: Bring grippy low-profile sneakers for wet cobbles and uneven Old Quarter alleys; water-resistant slip-ons are handy for quick temple visits where you'll remove shoes and want clean, dry feet.
- • Pack a light scarf or shawl: Carry a lightweight scarf for temple modesty and damp winter mornings (12–20°C); it adds coverage for shoulders in pagodas, layers warmth on foggy walks, and folds small in your bag.
- • Small travel umbrella beats taxis in rain: A compact umbrella is lifesaving during quick monsoon bursts in Old Quarter alleys; it's easier than negotiating soaked taxi doors and keeps camera gear dry for street photography.
- • Pack cash in small denominations: Carry small VND notes and coins for street vendors and xe ôm drivers; many markets and food stalls don't accept cards, and having change speeds transactions and avoids awkward haggling.
- • Light packable power kit: Bring a small universal adapter, USB multi-charger and a power bank; Vietnam uses 220V and Type A/C outlets, and cafes offer charging but quick-charging on walks is lifesaving for maps and ride apps.
- • Wash-and-wear underwear: Pack quick-dry underwear and two pairs of socks to rotate—Hanoi's humidity and street-food spills make frequent washing handy, and local laundries are cheap for same-day service.
- • Layer for damp winter mornings: Even in winter Hanoi is damp, not freezing—pack a thin merino or fleece layer and a windproof shell for mornings around 12–20°C; layers trap humidity and dry quicker than bulky coats.
- • Plan luggage for scooters and alleys: If you focus on Old Quarter, choose a small carry-on or backpack with sternum strap; narrow alleys, stairs and scooter parking mean bulky checked bags are impractical and slow your progress.
- • Respect temple dress and shoe rules: For pagodas and the Temple of Literature, pack clothes covering shoulders and knees; many shrines require shoe removal—easy slip-ons and a small bag for shoes keep visits smooth and respectful.
Hanoi Traveler FAQs: Weather, Scooters & Temple Tips
Common questions from fellow travelers, answered with local insight and practical experience.
What should I pack for Hanoi's monsoon summer months?
Which shoes are best for Hanoi's sidewalks, alleys and rainy cobbles?
How should I dress for temple visits and respectful attire in Hanoi?
Is it safe to ride scooters or take xe ôm rides in Hanoi?
What should I know about Hanoi weather and packing for seasons?
How much local currency and payment methods should I carry in Hanoi?
How do I handle laundry, tailoring and packing light in Hanoi?
Common Packing Mistakes and Fixes for Hanoi
Learn from others' experiences to avoid these common packing pitfalls and travel more comfortably.
Overpacking heavy fabrics for humid heat
Hanoi's high humidity makes heavy cotton and knits oppressive; pack breathable linen, lightweight merino or quick-dry synthetics. Bring 3–5 tops you can wash, rotate outfits, and avoid bulky fabrics for 28–35°C summer days.
Skipping compact rain gear in monsoon
Monsoon downpours (Jun–Sep) can be sudden and heavy; without a compact hooded waterproof shell or foldable umbrella you'll get soaked. Bring quick-dry layers and stowable rain gear to stay mobile on scooters and in narrow alleys.
Packing slippery or unsuitable footwear
Thin dress shoes or slick soles make Old Quarter cobbles and wet alleys hazardous; swap them for grippy low-profile sneakers, water-resistant slip-ons or strapped sandals. Bring one lightweight walking shoe for long days and stairs.
No small VND notes for street vendors
Relying on cards leaves you unable to buy street food or small market finds; carry small-denomination VND notes (10k–100k) and some loose change. Break larger bills at cafés or ATMs and keep bills flat to spot counterfeits.
Treating Hanoi winter as dry cold
Hanoi winters feel damp—12–20°C mornings can be chillier with fog, not dry cold. Skip bulky parkas; pack moisture-wicking base layers, a light insulating layer, a windproof waterproof shell and a scarf to trap damp air.
Ignoring scooter traffic for bags and crossings
Treat scooters as constant: bulky backpacks and loose straps invite snatch theft and snag on crowded sidewalks. Use secure crossbody anti-theft bags, keep valuables concealed, choose small carry-on luggage and time crossings with scooter flow.
Ready for Hanoi
You're set for Hanoi—expect humid 28–35°C summers, cool damp 12–20°C winters, and scooter-packed Old Quarter alleys. Pack a compact waterproof jacket, grippy low-profile shoes, and a secure crossbody for cash and small VND notes. Favor breathable, modest layers (linen, quick-dry fabrics) you can roll and wash; keep shoulders/knees covered for temples. Travel light, trust local tailors, and embrace the city's lively street-food and warm, understated style. Go enjoy it with confidence!
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