Traveling solo and on a budget to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) for the first time is an adventure packed with discovery, culture, and practical challenges. Here’s a detailed, chronological guide covering every step-from packing at home to your first bowl of street-side phở or the best egg coffee you’ve ever had.

5 Hidden Gems of Ho Chi Minh City No One Tells You About

Delving into the unexplored corners of the city a.k.a “hidden gem” serves as my go-to remedy for navigating through negative emotions. It strikes a chord with me on a psychological level, offering a therapeutic escape from the rigors of daily life. Engaging in these urban adventures allows me to momentarily detach from the burdensome weight of stressors and immerse myself in novel experiences.

Escaping Urban Stress with Saigon’s Secrets
Hidden gem saigon Tan Dinh church

Pre-Departure: Packing and Preparation

Essential Documents and Money

  • Passport (with visa if required), printed flight tickets, travel insurance, and at least one backup copy of all documents.
  • Debit/credit cards and a small amount of USD or EUR for emergencies. Bring some Vietnamese dong if possible, but you can exchange at the airport.
  • International driving permit if you plan to rent a motorbike.

Clothing

  • Lightweight, breathable clothes: T-shirts, shorts, loose trousers, and a light jacket for evenings.
  • Rain jacket or poncho (especially May–October, rainy season).
  • One set of warmer clothes if traveling in winter or to higher altitudes.
  • Comfortable walking shoes and flip-flops/sandals.
  • Hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
  • Modest attire for temple visits (long pants/skirt and covered shoulders).

Toiletries & Health

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, sunscreen (high SPF), insect repellent (mosquitoes are common), and any prescription medications.
  • Menstrual products (preferred brands can be hard to find).
  • Small first-aid kit, hand sanitizer, and tissues/wet wipes.
  • Travel towel, and baby powder for humidity.

Electronics

  • Unlocked smartphone, charger, power bank, and a universal adapter (Vietnam uses 220V, two round prongs).
  • Headphones, camera, and dry bag for electronics in case of rain.
  • Download offline maps and translation apps before departure.

Other Useful Items

  • Daypack for daily outings, padlock for hostel lockers, reusable water bottle, snacks for airports or late arrivals.
  • Clothesline for drying, travel journal, and pen.
  • Tip: Most basic toiletries, snacks, and even walking shoes can be bought in Ho Chi Minh City, but bring any specialty items or brands you rely on.

Arrival at Tan Son Nhat Airport: Getting Connected and Into the City

Navigating the Airport

  • After immigration and baggage claim, you’ll find currency exchange counters and ATMs. Withdraw some cash (200,000–500,000 VND to start).
  • SIM card kiosks from major providers (Viettel, Vinaphone, Mobifone) are located just after customs. Staff usually speak English and will set up your SIM for you.

Buying a SIM Card (4G/5G Data)

  • Best Providers: Viettel offers the widest coverage and reliable 4G/5G data.
  • Cost: Around 200,000 VND (~$8–9 USD) for a month of generous daily data (2–5GB per day). The SIM itself is 50,000 VND.
  • Process: Present your passport for registration, pay in cash or card, and let staff activate and test the SIM before you leave.
  • eSIM Option: If your phone supports eSIM, you can pre-purchase online and activate by scanning a QR code, saving time at the airport.

Tip: Buying at the airport is convenient but can be slightly more expensive than in the city. For the best price, buy at an official Viettel store in town, but airport purchase is worth it for instant connectivity.

Transport to the City Center

  • Taxi: Use only Mai Linh (green) or Vinasun (white) taxis, or book a Grab ride (ride-hailing app) for transparency and safety. Typical fare to District 1: 150,000–200,000 VND.
  • Public Bus: Bus 109 connects the airport to Ben Thanh Market in District 1 for 20,000 VND (~$0.85 USD).

Tip: Download Grab before arrival or use your new SIM to get online and book a ride. Avoid unmarked taxis and drivers who approach you inside the terminal.

 

First Steps in the City: Settling In

Accommodation

  • Most backpackers stay in District 1 (Pham Ngu Lao/Bui Vien area) for cheap hostels, lively street life, and easy access to attractions.
  • Check-in, secure valuables in a locker, and get a city map or download one offline.

Orientation

  • Take a free walking tour on your first or second day to get your bearings and local tips.
  • Ask hostel staff for recommendations on food, safety, and transport.

Now, Take a deep breath, relax, enjoy our articles as below