What to Bring When Moving to Vietnam: Essential Items You May Need

When you're considering moving to Vietnam, the question often arises about what items you should bring with you. Most necessities are easily obtainable in Vietnam, but there are a few items that might be harder to find or are more expensive, especially if purchased locally. Here’s a guide to help you prepare for your move.

Items with Sentimental Value

While you don’t necessarily need to bring anything specific, items with sentimental value or those that are difficult to find in Vietnam could be worth packing. These could include personal belongings, home decor, or other unique items that have significant importance to you.

Products Specific to Your Needs

Aftershave Gel and Shampoo

It has been observed that certain niche products, such as aftershave gel and specific shampoos, may not be readily available or have been out of stock for an extended period. If you have a preference for a particular aftershave gel or shampoo, it is recommended to bring a few bottles with you. In my case, I always bring a couple of bottles of aftershave gel when traveling to ensure I have a consistent supply.

Apple Products and Electronics

In terms of electronics, particularly Apple products, the price in Vietnam can be higher than in the US, but this might vary based on the country of origin. If you prefer to use Apple products, it would be wise to bring them with you to avoid additional costs or unofficial replicas.

Footwear

One of the challenges in Vietnam is finding the right size shoes. Shoe stores often cater to common sizes purchased by locals. For example, if you are in a larger shoe size (e.g., 39.5 to 42), it could be frustrating to find a suitable pair. Bringing a couple of pairs or finding a local store in your size before you move can be practical.

Razors and Shaving Gel

Razors and shaving gel can be found in pharmacies or large retail stores like Boots or Watsons if they are nearby. However, if these stores are not accessible, it can be a considerable hunt. If you have any preference, it might be worth bringing a few bottles with you to ensure you have a consistent supply.

Healthcare Products

For healthcare products, many items are available at affordable prices in Vietnam. However, if you rely on specific products from your home country, it is advisable to bring them with you. You can then inquire with locals if these products are available locally. Certain medical, healthcare, and cosmetic items might be harder to find in Vietnam, so it is beneficial to have a backup.

Food and Groceries

Supermarkets and international stores like L’espaces offer a variety of imported food and groceries, making it easy to find familiar items. Pricing for these items is not significantly different from what you would find in your home country, so it is convenient to stock up on items you prefer.

Clothing

Vietnam is known for its textile industry, and clothing is abundant and reasonably priced. Unless you have over-sized clothes, you likely won’t need to bring many clothes with you. Most locals wear clothing that is comfortable and often resemble casual wear, making it easy to find what you need locally.

In summary, while Vietnam offers a wide range of products, some items might be harder to find or are more expensive. Bringing items with sentimental value, specific products, and basic necessities can make your life easier and more comfortable in your new home.