20 Essential Items To Pack For A Halong Bay Cruise
Before going on a Halong Bay cruise, make sure you have this checklist of things you need to bring.
These are 20 must-have items and recommended ones to make your Halong Bay trip comfortable and enjoyable.
1.Passport/ID
You cannot embark the cruise without these papers. So put it into a small separate bag which should be always carried with you.
2. Good hiking shoes
Cave visit is an interesting activity during Halong cruise. The cave is beautiful but sometimes is steep and slippery.
A good pair of shoes will ensure your safety and comfort.
3. Sunscreen
Vietnam is a tropical country, so the sun will be harsh, especially for a summer cruise in Halong. Many beaches are included in the itinerary, so sunscreen is a must-have item in your suitcase.
A waterproof and about 50 SPF sunscreen is better. Remember to re-apply the sunscreen after several hours. You won’t want a sunburn after kayaking.
4. Water bottle
Most cruise operators will provide water bottles daily at your room. However, bottle water you order outside the room might be charged. It is best to carry your own bottle.
5. Flipflops
In case you want to chill on the sundeck or use a comfortable type of footwear to walk on the beach, the flipflops will allow your toes to breathe thoroughly.
6. Electrical Adapter
Different countries have different plugs and outlets, so it’s best to make sure to bring your own adapters to still able to use electric devices.
Vietnam uses electricity supply at 220 Volts/Frequency 50Hz. Type A (two flat vertical pins), type C and type F (two round pins) plugs are the most common in Vietnam. With the plug that has 3 pins, you might need an adapter since most electrical outlets here do not include a grounding hole.
Travellers who are from North and Central America or Japan need to check the voltage of your device since North and Central America or Japan mostly use 110 volts.
7. Camera
The stunning beauty of Halong Bay is not meant to be missed out! You don’t have to prepare the most expensive gear in the world to afford this beauty, but simply use the best you have to record the views within your memories about the place.
8. Backup batteries and charger
Halong impresses many visitors by its breathtaking scenery so bring backup batteries to make sure you will not miss any photo.
9. Small Luggage
Instead of carrying everything all along on board, you can just choose the necessities and use smaller suitcases for your Halong cruise, and leave the large ones in your Hanoi hotel. It will surely be more convenient for you to move around.
10. Cash
Mostly you have already paid the full payment before entering the ship, yet you might need to spend a few more during the journey such as purchasing some cocktails during the Happy Hour, buying souvenirs for your beloved ones back at home, or simply expressing your generosity to the professional staffs.
11. Insect repellent
It’s humid here, and you are in the middle of Nature. It won’t drastically be all about bugs and mosquitoes, but some body odor is irresistible to the insects.
12. Binoculars
While traveling, passengers might pass by islets without directly entering the venues. So, to have your own binoculars to watch their beauty from afar is absolutely worth it!
13. Sunglasses
Throw on some shades to protect your eyes against the sunlight while tanning on the pristine beach.
14. Big hat
Benefiting sun protection, a big hat will surely keep the toxic UV rays that might cause skin issues. The sunlight is extremely stronger in Nature than itself in the cities.
15. Toiletries
Most cruise operators like Bhaya always offer personal care sets for passengers, but in case you prefer using your own stuff, don’t forget to bring them along to feel the most comfortable on board.
16. Medicine if you need special one
Popular medicine and emergency kit are available onboard. However, in case you need some special treatment, it can be difficult to find the right type of medicine in the middle of the sea.
17. Umbrella & raincoat
Traveling in a tropical country during summertime, rains might come suddenly. Preparing your own umbrella or raincoat while trekking, nothing big to worry about.
18. Board-game:
If you travel with a group of friends, this item is a must! While the wifi is often weak when you’re far away from the mainland as well as the purpose of getting on a cruise with friends is to spend quality time together. “Disconnect to reconnect”, you will find these traditional games exciting as you did in childhood.
19. Book
Immersing in the nature of Halong Bay, you will want to spend time in tranquility. Sipping some fresh juice and relaxing under the shade with a good book in hands, what else is more important?
20. Clothes to wear on board
The following suggestion is best for the summer cruise. If you cruise Halong in winter, just a light jacket and some sweaters are fine.
a. For female
Off-board: Swimsuit is the first to pack. Halong Bay is well known for emerald and calm water, which is warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Swimming is an activity not to be missed in your Halong Cruise.
Shorts, jeans, and T-shirt are good bets for activities such as kayaking or hiking.
Onboard: Casual skirts and sundresses are perfect choices for onboard activities.
Dining: For evening or party on the sundeck, you should dress in a more formal style. There is no special dress code for this occasion but an elegant attire is preferable. Think of flowing cotton dresses or things you will wear to a nice restaurant.
Footwear: sandals, sneaker and a nice pair of high heels.
b. For male
Off-board: Swim trunks and a nice pair of leather sandals and stylish shades are comfortable and suitable for both swimming as well as kayaking. You can pair it up with a T-shirt or leave the shirt unbuttoned to show off those muscles or fresh suntan. The ladies don’t mind!
For a cave visiting or biking, pair lightweight shorts and a polo shirt. Keep it simple and active.
Onboard: a mix of Bermuda shorts and a polo shirt is perfect for attending onboard activities. A more formal option is chino pants and a pastel shirt.
Dining: A nice suit is all it takes!
Footwear: with a sneaker, leather sandals and leather shoes you can fit for all occasions during your Halong cruise.
>>> Check out Halong Bay’s seasonal weather to plan the essential things to pack!
