Travel to Vietnam with Kids: A Complete Family Guide

Vietnam is an incredible destination for families. With its welcoming culture, vibrant street life, safe environment, and varied landscapes, it offers an educational and fun adventure for children of all ages. This guide covers everything parents need to know before packing their bags.

1. Visa Requirements for Children

One of the most common questions we get is about visas for kids. Here is what you need to know:

• Everyone Needs a Visa: Unless your nationality is visa-exempt, children (even infants) need a valid visa to enter Vietnam.
• Own Passport vs. Parent's Passport:
  • If the child has their own passport, you must apply for a separate e-Visa for them.
  • If the child is included in a parent's passport, you generally still need to include their details in your application or apply for a visa that covers accompanying persons. For the standard e-Visa, individual applications are safest.
• Photo Requirements: Children's visa photos must follow the same rules (white background, straight face). For infants, it's okay if their eyes aren't perfectly focused, but the face must be visible.

2. Is Vietnam Safe for Kids?

Vietnam is widely considered one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia for travelers.

• Crime: Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. Petty theft can happen, so just keep an eye on belongings.
• Traffic: This is the biggest hazard. Crossing the street in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City can be daunting. Tip: Walk slowly and steadily; motorbikes will flow around you. Hold your child's hand firmly.
• Locals: Vietnamese people love children! Don't be surprised if locals want to say hello or take a photo with your kids. It's done with warmth.

3. Best Family-Friendly Destinations

Da Nang & Hoi An (Central Vietnam)

This is the top choice for families. Da Nang has wide pavements, clean beaches (My Khe Beach), and modern amenities. Just 30 minutes away is Hoi An, a pedestrian-friendly ancient town with colorful lanterns that kids adore.

Ha Long Bay (North)

A cruise on a calm bay is great for older kids. Kayaking, visiting caves, and sleeping on a boat is a memorable adventure. Ensure you book a mid-range to luxury cruise for better safety standards.

Phu Quoc Island (South)

If you want a pure relaxing beach holiday, Phu Quoc is perfect. It has the VinWonders amusement park and Vinpearl Safari, which are huge hits with children.

4. Food & Water Safety

Vietnamese food is delicious, but kids can be picky or have sensitive stomachs.

• Water: NEVER drink tap water. Always use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth.
• Kid-Friendly Dishes:
  • Pho (Noodle soup) - Ask for "Khong hanh" (no onions).
  • Banh Mi (Baguette) - Ask for "Khong ot" (no chili).
  • Com Chien (Fried Rice) - A safe staple.
• Milk & Supplies: Convenience stores (Circle K, 7-Eleven) sell fresh milk, formula, and diapers, but brands may differ.

5. Health & Medical Facilities

No vaccinations are strictly mandatory for entry, but standard ones (Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid) are recommended. Consult your doctor.

Hospitals: In major cities (Hanoi, HCMC, Da Nang), there are excellent international hospitals like FV Hospital and Vinmec with English-speaking staff.

Mosquitoes: Dengue fever exists. Use kid-safe insect repellent day and night.

6. Packing List for Kids

• Baby Carrier: Strollers are hard to use on uneven Vietnamese sidewalks. A carrier is essential for babies/toddlers.
• Car Seat: Taxis and Grab cars generally do NOT provide car seats. Consider bringing a portable travel car seat.
• Medications: Bring a full kit (fever reducer, rehydration salts, antihistamines) as specific pediatric brands might be hard to find.
• Hand Sanitizer: Useful before eating, as not all local places have soap.