Packing the right gear for the Ha Giang motorbike loop is crucial to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride. But with so much to consider, what exactly should you bring?

Having completed the Ha Giang Loop ourselves, we’ve learned that being well-prepared can make all the difference. The loop’s snake roads and unpredictable weather require thoughtful packing, from the right clothing to essential safety gear.

To help you get ready, we have compiled this comprehensive packing list for the Ha Giang Loop.

Ha Giang Loop Packing List

1. First aid kit

When riding through the remote regions of Northern Vietnam, it’s essential to be prepared for any minor injuries or health issues. A well-stocked first aid kit, along with basic medication like pain relievers, antiseptics, and band-aids, can be a lifesaver if medical help isn’t immediately available. 

These items are small but crucial for addressing everything from cuts and scrapes to headaches and stomach issues, helping you stay on the road and enjoy your adventure. If you are on any personal medication, ensure to carry them as well.

2. Mobile Phone + Charger + Universal Adapter

The landscape is so stunning that you’ll likely find yourself with your phone out most of the time. Your mobile phone is also your lifeline for navigation, communication, and emergencies. It is vital to keep it charged, so don’t forget to bring a reliable charger and an adapter along.

3. Powerbank

In remote areas of northern Vietnam where electricity goes off frequently, a power bank is a game-changer. It provides an additional source of power to keep your phone and other electronic devices charged. This small but powerful gadget can help you avoid getting stranded with a dead battery in the middle of nowhere.

If you don’t have a power bank or forgot to pack it, be smart to charge your mobile phone while eating in a restaurant or at your accommodation.

4. GoPro/ Camera and their accessories (optional)

Ha Giang Loop is known for the hospitality of the locals and epic landscapes. Capturing the tribal people’s lifestyle, attire, and charming smiles is a must. The vibrant landscapes including mountain roads and charming settlements are too worthy of a picture. 

We carried our camera and stopped at several places while doing the Ha Giang loop. Don’t forget to bring extra batteries, memory cards, and all necessary accessories.

Do follow the photography ethics when capturing human beings. Ask their permission before taking the picture. Most people are very friendly and will even strike a pose for you.

Twin’s Tip: Ha Giang loop starts and ends at Ha Giang City. So, leave all your belongings at the accommodations in Ha Giang City where you’re staying. Most accommodations at Ha Giang are kind enough to accept such services for their guests. You can collect your belongings after the ride.

5. Helmet

Safety is the first priority. It is mandatory to wear helmets in Vietnam. Both the rider and the pillion should wear helmets while driving. The two-wheeler rental companies will give complimentary helmets while renting the vehicles. 

A good helmet can make a big difference in your overall riding experience. Prefer full-face for better protection against harsh weather conditions. Helmets will not only keep you safe in case of an accident but also provide comfort and warmth, especially when riding at higher altitudes.

If you’re planning to record your journey using GoPro, make sure your helmet has an adapter attached to it. Most of the rental companies do not provide helmets with GoPro adapters. So, carry them with you for filming with ease.

6. Gloves

The weather in the mountainous region of the Ha Giang loop changes frequently and is unpredictable at times. While driving in the winter season, gloves are essential. It protects you from the cold winds. The pillion riders can put their hands inside the jacket but drivers should wear them to beat the cold.

7. Toiletries

Many homestays and accommodations in the Ha Giang loop do not provide toiletries for their guests. However, in most places, both water and toilet paper were available. You should pack the essential toiletries while driving the loop.

• A toothbrush and a toothpaste
• Soap or body wash
• Hair wash liquid (optional)
• Sanitary pads or menstrual cups (for women)

8. A Reusable Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when riding through challenging terrain. Carry at least 1.5 L of water every day. A reusable water bottle allows you to carry water with you, so you can refill it along the way and reduce plastic waste.

We refill our water bottles before starting our journey or buy at numerous restaurants and homestays located en route.

9. Moisturizer and Lip Balm

A good moisturizer and lip balm will also help combat dryness caused by wind and sun exposure. We have dry skin so a moisturizer and a lip balm are added to the Ha Giang loop packing list.

10. A Hat, Sunscreen, and Sunglasses

To protect yourself from the harmful UV rays, a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are essential. These small items are easy to carry and can be a valuable addition to your gear. They are helpful on hikes or while exploring off the bike when visiting attractions on the Ha Giang loop.

11. Mosquito Repellant

The provinces in northern Vietnam have a fair share of mosquitos. Pack a mosquito repellant with you and apply it regularly, especially during dawn and dusk. Stay bite-free and reduce the risk of mosquito-borne illness.

Twin’s Tip: Make sure to buy anything you need while you’re still in Ha Giang City. Once you begin your journey, it may be hard to find the items you’re looking for.

12. Headlight

The power goes off frequently in the Ha Giang region. Many accommodations in the town have backup options but several homestays don’t. 

Streetlights are uncommon in remote regions. A headlight comes in handy if you want to explore after dark or when the power goes off. It ensures that you can see and be seen on the roads, enhancing your safety during nighttime activities.

13. Rain Protection Gears

The weather in the mountains changes frequently. Do not venture out without your rain protection gear. A raincoat and a plastic cover for your belongings are usually given as complimentary by the bike rentals at Ha Giang. We used them and they worked well while sightseeing and driving.

• Rain jacket
• Waterproof pants
• A plastic cover for your belonging
• Mobile rain protection cover (optional)

Honestly, waterproof gear gives you protection to only some extent. But the rains in northern Vietnam are crazy.

14. Clothes

Packing the right clothes is essential for comfort and protection during your motorbike trip. Layers are key, as temperatures can vary greatly in the mountains. Carry lightweight, breathable clothing for warmer afternoons and layers for cooler mornings and evenings. And of course rain protection gears for any unexpected showers.

Full pants are recommended for comfortable driving. They shield your legs from the sun and wind and help keep you warm, especially in the cooler temperatures of the highlands. Do not wear any revealing clothes in the region and respect the local cultures.

• Bathing towel or a quick dry towel
• Bandana – saves you from the cold winds that constantly hit the face.

Pack your outfits depending on the itinerary you choose and the number of days. Don’t overpack as there is only a little space at the back of the motorbike.

15. Footwear

We have seen many foreigners wearing shoes but we prefer buckled sandals or outdoor sandals. The sandals are not only easy to dry if they get wet but also can be washed off easily if they get dirty. 

Rain protection gear for the footwear is given by the two-wheeler rental companies along with the rain cover. Nonetheless, it will get dirty even if you cover it up.

16. Miscellaneous

Last, but not least. Do not forget to pack the must-have items for the Ha Giang loop.

• ATM card 
• Cash
• Passport and Visa
• Snacks
• A notebook and a pen (optional)

If you have any further questions, feel free to drop them in the comments section below. We will do our best to answer them.

For more such detailed blogs, travel tips, itineraries, travel inspiration, destination guides, and so much more, subscribe to the newsletter.