Short answer
Layers in every season: it is always cooler in the mountains than in Ha Noi. Add a proper rain layer from May to September and warm clothes (hat, gloves, down jacket) from December to February.
All year
- Layers, including a warm top for evenings
- Rain jacket
- Closed shoes with good grip
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
- Reusable water bottle and a small rubbish bag (see the Visitor Pledge)
- Motion-sickness tablets if you get carsick
- Cash and a power bank
December – February
Warm jacket, hat, gloves and thermal layers — nights on the plateau can be close to freezing, frost is possible and many homestays have no heating.
May – September
Waterproof trousers or poncho, quick-dry clothes and a dry bag for your phone and documents.
Travelling with children
Since 1 July 2026, children under 10 and shorter than 1.35 m may not sit in the front row of a car, and private cars must use a suitable child seat (hired passenger vehicles are exempt). If you want a child seat, bring your own or ask before you book. Pack snacks, water and anything your child uses for motion sickness — see Ha Giang with kids.
Month by month
For weather and what to expect in the month you travel, see the month guides.
If you ride
A proper helmet (many rental helmets are thin), gloves and a jacket, even in warm weather.