North Vietnam Travel Guide: 2-Week Itinerary

Here is a complete travel guide to North Vietnam, including how to get around, when to visit and an incredible 2-week itinerary that ensures you see the best attractions and sights this country offers. From Hanoi to Sapa and the Ha Giang Loop, this backpacking guide is perfect for first-timers and will allow you to get to know the country and locals on a deeper level.

Between vibrant culture, traditional villages and breathtaking nature, Vietnam is a country steeped in history and diversity. Backpacking across its land is an experience like no other. It gives you the opportunity to slow down and appreciate the scenery from a unique perspective.

My friend Kwelan and I visited Vietnam in June for two weeks. The Asian continent was unknown to me, and I was very excited. We did not plan much before the trip and decided to go backpacking one day at a time. As Vietnam is a long country and it takes a long time to see it all, we focused on the north.

In addition, we had similar plans for accommodation. We booked a room for the night each day on Booking.com, and it was always very convenient.

In this article, I give you the tools you need to have an unforgettable experience in Northern Vietnam. Plus, do not forget to check out the sustainable tips at the end. Enjoy!

My Vietnam experience:
Duration 15 Days
Dates visited June 14 - Jul 03
Season Summer

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Overview: 2-week North Vietnam itinerary

• Day 1/3 (2 nights) – Hanoi
• Day 3/5 (2 nights) – Sapa
• Day 5/8 (3 nights) – Ha Giang
• Day 8/10 (2 nights) – Cao Bang
• Day 10/12 (2 nights) – Cat Ba Island
• Day 12/13 (1 night) – Ninh Binh
• Day 13/14 (1 night) – Hanoi

Planning a solo backpacking trip in Vietnam? Check out this article:
Backpacking Vietnam: Solo Travel Guide

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North Vietnam itinerary

Planning your backpacking trip and not sure where to start? Here is an outline of an epic 2-week itinerary in North Vietnam. Enjoy! 🇻🇳

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How long to spend in North Vietnam

I suggest spending at least 14 days in North Vietnam. 

Vietnam does not seem like it, but it is a lengthy country, so reaching a city can take up to 15 hours by bus. That is why it is necessary to think about the travel time between each stop when planning your backpacking trip, either by bus or motorbike. 

Even if you focus on the northern part of the country, the journeys will be tiring. Allow plenty of time to travel and do whatever you want at your destination.

That is also why I recommend spending two nights at each stop, so you can see the main attractions and highlights without rushing. 

Spending less time is fine, but you will be either exhausted at the end or will have to cut on some parts. On the other hand, spending more time is always a great thing. It will allow you to see more and truly connect with the culture and locals! 

For my experience, I spent 15 days in North Vietnam, ending in Hoi An, and it was perfect. The only thing I regretted was not having prepared our itinerary in advance. We went there without plans, and I regret it a bit as I now realise we missed a lot and could have seen more by being organised. But getting lost and not having any expectations is also part of the beauty of backpacking. We still had an incredible time and made many friends along the way. 

Looking for tips on how to plan an epic road trip? Check out this article:
How to Plan the Ultimate (Eco-Friendly) Road Trip

Vietnam Backpacking Itinerary – Map

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

This Northern Vietnam backpacking travel itinerary is only a guide with recommendations. You are more than welcome to spend more days in one destination or add other stops on your way. Vietnam has a lot to offer: you will never run out of ideas!

Additional tip: use night-sleeping buses to save time.

Route ALTERNATIVES:

Detailed Vietnam 2-Week Itinerary

Day 1/3 (2 nights) – Hanoi

Your Vietnam backpacking adventure begins with the vibrant city of Hanoi.

Hanoi is the bustling capital of Vietnam, a colourful city full of charm and history. It is the perfect way to discover Vietnamese culture and taste delicious street food. 

For this North Vietnam itinerary, I recommend spending at least two nights in Hanoi to have the time to immerse yourself in the buzzing atmosphere of the city and get lost in its narrow streets.

With these few days, you will have plenty of opportunities to uncover the main attractions and highlights of the Vietnamese capital. 

READ MORE: 3 Perfect Days in Hanoi: Complete Itinerary

Things to do & see in Hanoi

• Explore the Old Quarter
• Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake 
• Cross the bridge to the Temple of the Jade Mountain
• Dwell in Hanoi train street
• Tour the National Museum of Vietnamese History
• Wander the Temple of Literature
• Try Hanoi local food (order a bowl of pho and a beer!)
• Discover the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
• Visit Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations.

Top experiences from Hanoi

How to get around Hanoi

The easiest way to get around Hanoi is on foot. It will allow you to soak up the energetic atmosphere of the city. And if you love photography, it is an incredible way to wander and capture candids.

And if the place you want to reach is a bit far, I advise you to use a Grab (the equivalent of an Uber) or taxi.

I would not recommend renting and driving a motorbike to get around the capital, as the streets are insanely busy and there are no traffic rules.

My Hanoi experience

I did not have the chance to spend that much time in Hanoi, but it was not my favourite city. It was so hot and humid that it was hard to breathe, and the noise and smell were intense and hard to handle.

However, I still enjoyed wandering through its narrow streets, tasting local cuisine and doing some shopping.

Day 3/5 (2 nights) – Sapa

Sapa is a remote town located in the northwestern mountains of Vietnam in the Muong Hoa Valley. This part of the country with its distinct and unique culture is well-known for its lush rice terraces, scenic mountain views and local communities. 

And if you love spending time outdoors and exploring, Sapa is the place for you! The area offers plenty of trekking possibilities that will guide you through picturesque landscapes and ethnic villages.

For your backpacking trip in North Vietnam, I recommend spending two to three days in Sapa, as the region provides many things to do and see! 

Things to do & see in Sapa

• Visit Cat Cat village
• Go hiking or trekking
• Ride the cable car to Fansipan
• Hike to Love Waterfall
• Walk to Silver Waterfall
• Visit Sapa Museum
• Go on a boat ride on Sapa Lake
• Rent a motorbike & wander outside of Sapa
• Discover Tram Ton Pass
• Check out Muong Hoa Valley

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations.

Top experiences in Sapa

How to get around Sapa 

Because Sapa is a small mountain town perfect for hiking and trekking, the easiest way to get around is on foot. 

Another way to travel around is by using a motorbike. You can easily rent yours at the hotel or guesthouse where you are staying and start exploring the surroundings. However, be mindful as the roads are in bad condition. This area is also often cloudy and foggy. So drive slowly! 

And if you are not sure about exploring on your own, feel free to hire a local guide. The locals will be happy to share their culture and beautiful region. You can hire a guide to hike through rice terraces on a day trip and multi-day excursion or show you around on a motorbike if you want to reach distant places. 

My Sapa experience

We took a very early morning bus from Hanoi to Sapa. It was a 6-hour journey, and the bus was very comfortable, but it was the only one like this on our entire trip – we did not know it yet!

On our way there, we could already see the scenery changing, becoming little green bumps – I was very excited. 

We arrived in Sapa early in the afternoon and went to our guesthouse to leave our bags. We then walked around to explore the town, and it was beautiful – I loved Sapa Lake and its reflection. 

The city was busy, but not as much as Hanoi. We could breathe easier.

Cat Cat Village

After walking around the Lake, we visited Cat Cat Village (you can walk to it). You can find it at the bottom of the hill between rice terraces. 

The village was pretty, but it was a bit too touristy. Plus, the entrance was 70 000 VND. It was still a lovely first experience to discover the country and its culture. We wandered through the village and walked to the waterfall. 

We then used a moto taxi back into town and stopped on our way home at a nice bar. I can not remember the exact place, but it was lovely!

For our second day in Sapa, we rented a scooter from our guesthouse and went to explore the surroundings.

Love Waterfall

Renting a scooter was always very affordable, around 100,000 VND. We had to pay for our petrol, but as with most things, it was easy and cheap (60,000 VND full tank). My friend Kwelan sat behind me as she did not know how to drive, and we headed towards the Love Waterfall. The entrance was not free, but I can not remember the exact price. We did a small hike to reach it, and it was lovely. The waterfall was beautiful.

We then continued to Tan Van, but the roads were in terrible condition, and the weather was very foggy. We went as far as we could, enjoyed the view of the rice terraces and returned to the guesthouse.

Day 5/8 (3 nights) – Ha Giang

Ha Giang province is one of the most adventurous places in Vietnam and is known for being the start of the famous loop, going from steep mountain passes to quaint local villages.

The Ha Giang Loop is a circular route passing near the border with China. It is there that you can travel through stunning and wild landscapes you will never forget.

This remote region offers an experience like no other, where the cultural diversity and beautiful landscapes remain pure and authentic. 

I travelled the loop in two days, which was short, but we did not have much time, and we still managed to see a lot (which was also very tiring). I recommend spending more days there, at least 3 or 4, and going at your own pace.

And if the loop is not on your bucket list, you can rent a motorbike and go for a day trip around Ha Giang City. The possibilities are endless! 

Things to do & see in Ha Giang

• Visit Ha Giang City
• Drive the Ha Giang loop
• Discover Hoang Su Phi
• Wander Ha Giang markets
• Go trekking through valleys and villages
• Reach Lung Cu flag tower
• Explore the Lung Cam cultural village
• Stroll through Hmongs King Palace
• Conquer the Ma Pi Leng Pass
• Relax in Du Gia

Top ha giang loop experiences

Ha Giang Loop: 3-day itinerary example

First day:

• Ha Giang
• Quan Ba Pass
• Tham Ma Pass
• Hmongs King Palace
• Dong Van

Second day:

• Dong Van
• Lung Cu Flag tower
• Ma Pi Leng pass
• Meo Vac

Third day:

• Meo Van
• Mau Due
• Du Gia
• Ha Giang

How to get around Ha Giang

The easiest way to get from one town to another in Ha Giang province is by motorbike. You can rent one or use a local guide to show you around. The roads are steep and narrow but generally in good condition. Just drive slowly. 

Another good way to travel around Ha Giang is by car with a driver. It will allow you to see unforgettable panoramas without the stress of driving. However, be sure to book in advance.

My Ha Giang experience

Since my friend Kwelan did not know how to drive a motorbike, we asked our guesthouse host Tom to guide us. He accepted. 

With his cousin, they drove us through the magical landscapes of North Vietnam.

Our first loop day

You can start the loop differently, but we started with the East, passing through Meo Vac, Ma Pi Long et Dong Van. 

We stopped several times to take pictures, and the scenery was breathtaking. The weather was also lovely, sunny and warm, and it was great to be with two locals, as they knew the area very well. They showed us hidden places and took us to local houses for lunch and sleep. 

Our second loop day

We continued our way to the West, this time passing through Yen Minh et Quan Ba. Once again, we had lunch at a local house. 

Most of the time, we had a bowl of rice and a buffet on the table, so we could put whatever we wanted on our rice – and it was always delicious!

We finished our tour by reaching Ha Giang and the guesthouse, where we spent the night. 

The loop was unforgettable! The landscapes were unique, with verdant mountains stretching as far as the horizon. Although it was a short tour, we both enjoyed it very much – it is something to do if you can, you will not regret it.

Day 8/10 (2 nights) – Cao Bang

Nestled in a remote area, Cao Bang is a mountainous province in northeastern Vietnam and is one of the most beautiful and peaceful regions.

With countless rivers and lakes, Cao Bang is protected as a UNESCO Global Geopark and offers extraordinary diversity, perfect for adventurous travellers who want to explore whilst seeking peace. Due to its remote location, Cao Bang province is ideal for getting away from crowded and more visited tourist destinations and experiencing the rugged beauty of the border region.

And whilst the province is well-known for its Ban Gioc waterfall, one of the best things to do is to wander off-the-beaten tracks and discover unique, untouched wilderness.

As the journey to reach this area can be long and tiring, I recommend staying for two nights to have time to catch your breath after the loop and immerse yourself in nature.

Things to do & see in Cao Bang

• Explore Cao Bang City
• Admire Ban Gioc waterfall
• Hike to Nguom Ngao Cave
• Discover the hidden Phong Nam Valley
• Uncover the Nui Thung mountain
• Marvel in front of Me Pja Pass
• Walk around Thang Hen Lake
• Visit local villages
• Wander around Phia Oac National Park

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations.

Top CAO BANG experiences

How to get around Cao Bang

The easiest way to get around Cao Bang province is by motorbike. You can rent one at your hotel or guesthouse or use a local guide to show you around. Just drive slowly, as this part of Vietnam is foggy and wet.

Another good way to travel around Cao Bang is by car using a driver. It will allow you to discover the region with a local and move around comfortably.

My Cao Bang experience

Unfortunately, we did not have the chance to stop at Cao Bang. It was on our list, but our schedule was tied, and we wanted to experience Hoi An after Ninh Binh instead (proposed as one of the route alternatives). 

Day 10/12 (2 nights) – Cat Ba Island

A small island off the northwest coast of Vietnam, Cat Ba is a hidden gem well worth a visit. Dominating the Gulf of Tonkin, it is the largest of the 367 islands that form the Cat Ba Archipelago.

For this Northern Vietnam backpacking itinerary, I recommend Cat Ba Island instead of Ha Long Bay simply because the island is more budget-friendly and less crowded/touristy. Between the vast jungle of Cat Ba National Park, the stunning sandy beaches and plenty of outdoor activities, there are many things to do and see there, so I would suggest staying for two nights.

Cat Ba will also propose a lovely change of scenery and will allow you to relax by the sea after a few days of mountain exploration.

Things to do & see in Cat Ba

• Explore Cat Ba National Park 
• Relax at the beach
• Cruise along Lan Ha Bay (Ha Long Bay alternative)
• Hike Ngu Lam Peak for stunning views
• Visit the Hospital Cave
• Bike ride around Viet Hai Village
• Visit Cai Beo floating village
• Admire the sunset at Cannon Fort
• See langurs on Monkey Island
• Enjoy Cat Ba nightlife

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations.

Top experiences in Cat Ba & Ha Long

How to get around Cat Ba island

The first way to get around Cat Ba island is on foot. The island offers many hiking trails and scenic coastal views, perfect for slow exploration. 

The second way to travel around Ca ba is by bike or motorbike. Again, you can rent one from your hotel and guesthouse and go for a wander. 

My Cat Ba experience

We reached Cat Ba Island from Hanoi by bus and ferry, and I was very excited, as Cat Ba was where we were cruising along a part of Halong Bay. 

To book the cruise, we went to an agency on the island: there are many, so compare and choose the one you prefer. You can also do the cruise from Halong City, but we selected Cat Ba as it was a bit less touristy. I also loved this island, its atmosphere and its landscapes. It was totally unique.

We spent the afternoon at the beach, which was an unusual experience. Because we were the only ones in ‘bikinis’, and most Vietnamese girls were only staying on the beach, we got lots of stares when going into the water. And as we did not want to disturb anyone, we went for a walk around the island, which was incredible.

Unfortunately, the boat cruise we had booked along Lan Ha Bay was cancelled due to a storm. The agency refunded us, and we decided to continue our journey to Ninh Binh.

Day 12/13 (1 night) – Ninh Binh 

Ninh Binh is a town (and district) which lies southeast of Hanoi and is a perfect base for adventurers and nature lovers to explore the area, a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Ninh Binh town is ideal for discovering Tam Coc, Van Long and Hoa Lu, and although it is not as well-known as other places in Vietnam, it is an excellent place for anyone interested in nature and outdoor activities. 

For this backpacking itinerary in North Vietnam, I suggest you stay in the Ninh Binh region for one night, but you can stay longer if you prefer, as there is a lot to do and see! Luckily, Ninh Binh is only a two-hour bus journey from Hanoi, so you will have plenty of time to explore the area without rushing before heading back to the capital.

The best way to experience this UNESCO-protected site is by taking a boat tour on its glistening rivers and climbing to the top of its legendary peaks.

Things to do & see in Ninh Binh

• Climb up the Hang Mua Peak
• Go on a Trang An boat ride
• Visit Bich Dong Pagoda
• Stroll through Hoa Lu Ancient Capital
• Go on a bike tour around the countryside
• Explore Cuc Phuong National Park
• Visit Van Long Nature Reserve
• Wander the Bai Dinh Pagoda
• Discover Tam Coc

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations.

Top NINH Binh experiences

How to get around Ninh Binh

The best to get around Ninh Binh and move freely is by motorbike. You can rent one at your hotel or guesthouse or use a local guide to show you around.

Cycling is another good way to travel around Ninh Binh. It will allow you to discover the region from a unique perspective and immerse yourself in the Vietnamese landscapes. 

My Ninh Binh experience

We took a bus, a ferry and another bus for 5 hours from Cat Ba Island to Ninh Binh. We arrived at Tam Coc Homestay in Ninh Binh at the end of the day, and that was, without a doubt, our favourite homestay. The surroundings were incredible – lost in the middle of rice terraces, adorable owners and a beautiful pool.

We rented a scooter to explore the surroundings. We first went to Trang An for an early morning cruise (so it was not too busy). There are other rivers for boat cruises in this area, the most famous one is Tam Coc, but we wanted something a bit less touristy, so we chose Trang An. The price was 200 000 VND. We could be up to four on the boat (so you will never be alone), and a local guided us through the river and the caves. The scenery was stunning, something I had never seen before. It was a 3-hour cruise, and we stopped at a few temples along the way and passed through 9 caves – all impressive, but watch your head!

We were supposed to leave early but decided to stay a bit longer to explore the area more. We rented a scooter again and went to Hang Mua Mountain to enjoy an incredible panorama of Tam Coc and the rice terraces. The way up was quite hard, as there were 500 steps, but the view was worth it! 

Day 13/14 (1 night) – Hanoi

Your last day in Vietnam! 

Spend this time strolling around Hanoi, enjoying a beer or bringing home handmade souvenirs. 

I hope you had a great time discovering Northern Vietnam. Let me know in the comments what was your favourite part or if you have other suggestions. 

Vietnam was a wonderful country, with such a beautiful culture and full of lovely people. We always felt safe and had no problems travelling. The scenery was breathtaking, and the way of living was different from what I was used to, but it felt so good to discover something new. I came home with a warm heart and a head full of memories.

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How to get to Hanoi

The best way to get to Hanoi will depend on where you come from and your budget, but there are many options to reach the Vietnamese capital.

One of the quickest ways to get to Hanoi is by plane. Flying is the most common way to reach Hanoi from international destinations. Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) is the main airport, and many major airlines operate flights to the capital from various cities around the world. And if you can, try to prioritise direct flights to reduce your carbon footprint – if flying is the only option. 

One of the most eco-friendly ways to get to Hanoi is by train. If you are already in Vietnam or neighbouring countries like China, you can also consider taking a train to Hanoi. The railway system in Vietnam is well-developed and routes connect Hanoi to major cities such as Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Da Nang and Hue.

Finally, the most affordable option for getting to Hanoi is by bus. You will find long-distance bus services available from neighbouring countries like Laos and Cambodia. However, these journeys can be lengthy and may not be the most comfortable option.

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How to get around North Vietnam

BUS

The bus is the best way to get around in Northern Vietnam. This way of travelling will be cheap, easy and safe (if you are unsure about riding a motorbike on your own).

Buses run across the country and even reach small villages lost in the mountains. It is their primary way of accessing distant places and transporting people and goods, meaning you can also jump on one of these local buses and go along with the locals. 

And because Vietnam is so lengthy, you can use sleeper buses – incredibly useful for making the most of your trip and not wasting time on transport! Sleeper buses contain small beds so you can nap/sleep during your trip. They are perfect for long night trips. 

To book these buses, ask your hotel or guesthouse. They will always be able to book the bus for you, wherever you are! It is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to travel around Vietnam. 

If you want more premium buses, check out Baolau and 12go.asia. They offer express minibuses and vans that are more comfortable and private.

MOTORBIKE

The second best way to travel around North Vietnam is by motorbike. However, this might not be as cheap and safe as the bus and depends on your biking level. The roads are not always in good condition in some northern areas, and the weather can be foggy, cold and wet. Accidents are common, so drive slowly! (we met someone who badly fell on his motorbike and had to go to the local hospital). 

I recommend reading more about travelling the north on a motorbike and getting as much information as possible on where to rent/buy it, how to get petrol along the way and which routes are the best. 

TRAIN

Finally, the last way to get around North Vietnam is by train. Trains also run across the country but are not as cheap as the bus and do not reach remote villages. But they may be a good alternative if no buses are available or to get to a city faster. 

Can't go backpacking without a good backpack! Check out this article:
10 Best Sustainable Backpacks for Travel & Hiking

Best time to visit North Vietnam

The best time to visit North Vietnam is in spring (March-April) and Autumn (September-November) when the weather is pleasant and dry, perfect for outdoor activities. These two seasons offer picturesque landscapes and vibrant colours – ideal for photographers! 

As Vietnam is a long and narrow country, the weather can be unpredictable and highly depends on which part you visit, north or south, mountain or coast.

• Summer (May-August) is the hottest season with intense sunshine. These months are usually the best for relaxing at the beach but not trekking, as the weather in Northern Vietnam is hot and humid with heavy rain.

• Winter (December – February) is the coldest season with chilling winds, especially in the north and mountainous areas. There is also snow in some places, like Sapa. 

• Spring (February – May) is the best time to see the flower season in Northern Vietnam. The temperatures rise slowly, and the sunshine is pleasant with clear, blue skies. Some areas can expect rainfall, but it is still great for hiking, with spring flowers in full bloom, making the region particularly beautiful.

• Autumn (September – November) is the best month with pleasant weather to visit Northern Vietnam when colours gradually change, and the temperatures are lowering but still lovely, perfect for outdoor activities.

Packing tips: pack good walking shoes, light cotton clothes, an umbrella or a light waterproof jacket. Plus, do not forget your filtered water bottle! 

Looking for the best places to visit? Check out this article:
20 Epic Landmarks in Vietnam You Should Visit

Where to stay in North Vietnam

Choosing accommodation in North Vietnam, especially in cities like Hanoi, depends on various factors such as your budget, preferences and itinerary. The country offers a wide range of options, from budget hostels and guesthouses to luxury hotels and resorts. 

However, I would recommend prioritising homestays or boutique hotels to experience local culture and hospitality. It can provide a more authentic and immersive experience compared to staying in chain hotels.

That is what we did with my friend Kwelan. We booked a different guesthouse each day after carefully reading the reviews. It was a great way to connect with locals, discover remote places and meet other international travellers! 

Check out Booking.com, or Airbnb to find your perfect accommodation.

Is North Vietnam safe for solo travellers

Vietnam is generally considered safe for solo travellers and one of the safest places in Southeast Asia for solo travellers, especially female backpackers. 

My friend Kwelan and I embarked on a 3-week journey through the northern regions and remote areas of the country. Whilst Kwelan arrived before me and spent a few days alone, she left before my last day, leaving me to explore for a bit on my own.

Whether we were alone or together, we always felt safe, even in secluded mountain villages empty of tourists – and even at night.

However, as in any other country, it is crucial to remain vigilant of your surroundings. Be careful of petty theft and scams, particularly in big cities and when using public transportation. Also keep your belongings safe, as instances of pickpocketing are not uncommon. 

For example, whilst travelling on the sleeper bus, I kept my bag and cameras on me or under my legs. 

Why Vietnam is a great solo travel destination?

• It is a safe place to visit. Vietnam is considered safe for solo travellers, so you will have no problem getting around or visiting places on your own.

• It is incredibly affordable. Vietnam is very affordable compared to many other destinations, making it attractive for budget-conscious solo travellers.

• Locals are friendly and welcoming. Vietnamese people are known for their warmth and friendliness towards travellers. You will find it easy to connect with them, whether it is through homestays, guided tours or cafés. 

• It is popular among backpackers. Vietnam is a popular destination for solo backpackers and has an established tourist route taking in the top sites in the country. As a result, you will have no problem meeting other travellers on your journey, whether on the bus or at guesthouses.

• It has excellent tourist infrastructure. Vietnam has a well-developed tourism infrastructure, with good transportation options and a range of accommodation choices to suit every budget and preference. 

Sustainable travel in Vietnam

Sustainable travel means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

Between vibrant culture, traditional villages and breathtaking nature, Vietnam is a country full of history and diversity that demands attention and care. Visiting these places with respect is essential to their conservation through responsible tourism conducted in a way that gives back to the land and culture.  

Here are some sustainable travel tips for reducing your impact when backpacking in Northern Vietnam: 

• If you need to take the plane, book direct flights (which require less fuel than indirect flights) and offset your carbon footprint. But, do not use carbon offsetting as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully packing your suitcase for your green holiday.

• Select an eco-friendly accommodation. Look for hotels, guesthouses or Airbnb accommodations that prioritise sustainability practices, such as energy efficiency, waste reduction and water conservation. It is not always easy to determine whether a hotel or guesthouse has eco-conscious policies, but try to look on their website for green credentials and ask questions. You can also use Bookdifferent or Ecobnb to help you decide.

• Be mindful of your energy and water consumption. Practice water and energy conservation by taking shorter showers, turning off lights and air conditioning when not in use, and reusing towels and linens in accommodations.

• Engage in tourism activities benefiting the local community, economy and wildlife. Look for authentic experiences but avoid tours more rooted in money than traditional culture! Choose an operator with a responsible tourism policy. 

• Respect wildlife and natural habitats. Avoid activities that involve captive or exploited wildlife, such as elephant riding or visiting wildlife attractions with unethical practices. Choose responsible eco-tours and activities that prioritise wildlife conservation and ethical interactions.

• Hire a local guide if possible. You will reinvest your money in the local community and learn from someone who knows the area and the culture.

• If snorkelling or diving, be sure to choose a responsible operator. Never touch or step on coral, and wear reef-safe sunscreen.

• Reduce plastic waste as much as possible. Bring a filtered water bottle, reusable shopping bag and utensils to avoid single-use plastics, and choose products with minimal packaging when possible. In addition, dispose of waste properly and avoid littering.

• Eat at local restaurants that serve locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, and shop at local markets to support the economy of the country and reduce carbon emissions associated with imported goods.

• Shop local and sustainable products. Purchase locally made products and souvenirs that support local artisans and communities. Look for products made from sustainable materials and eco-friendly practices. Ask questions if you have any doubts, and never purchase items from endangered species.

• Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites. Much of Vietnam is still very conservative, especially in rural areas.

• Always respect the local heritage. Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, ask before taking a photo, always be respectful and try to learn a few Vietnamese words!

More inspiration for your green vacation:

• Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World

Eco-friendly gear you might love:

• 10 Best Sustainable Backpacks for Travel & Hiking
• 10 Best Reusable & Eco-Friendly Travel Mugs
• 8 Best Filtered Water Bottles for Travel & Hiking

Check out this page for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

Vietnam travel planning guide

🚑 Should I buy travel insurance to travel to Vietnam?
Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your backpacking trip across Vietnam stress-free with one of my favourite providers, Nomad Insurance.

💧 Can you drink the water in Vietnam?
No, drinking tap water is not recommended in Vietnam. That is why I suggest travelling with the UltraPress Purifier Bottle, a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated on the go.

🛵 Is it easy to rent a motorbike in Vietnam?
Yes, renting a motorbike or motorscooter in Vietnam is easy and cheap (just ask your guesthouse or hotel) and is a great way to explore the country freely.

🏨 How to book accommodation in Vietnam?
The best way to book your accommodation in Vietnam is with Booking.com – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.

✈️ What is the best site to buy a flight to Vietnam?
I recommend booking your plane with Skyscanner. It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

Backpacking in North Vietnam – FAQ

And you, have you ever visited Vietnam or would you like to go one day? 
Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡
Lucie