Motorbike Packing List Vietnam: Travel Like A Pro (2026 Ultimate Guide)

Planning a motorcycle trip in Vietnam requires more than just a bike—you need the right gear. Weather, terrain, and road conditions can change quickly, especially on long-distance or mountain routes.

This motorbike packing list is designed for foreign riders looking for a practical touring gear list that works in real Vietnam conditions. From big bike gear Vietnam essentials to reliable adventure gear Vietnam, this guide shows you what to bring, what to buy locally, and how to prepare for serious Frontier Travel Vietnam—without overpacking or overspending.

1. Base Layer – Moisture-Wicking & Dry-Fit Clothing

Vietnam’s climate is hot, humid, and unforgiving. Cotton clothing absorbs sweat, dries slowly, and causes skin irritation during long rides.

What You Need

• Synthetic moisture-wicking fabric
• Quick-dry and breathable
• Lightweight and compact

Moisture-wicking base layer clothing for motorbike packing list Vietnam

Recommended Brands in Vietnam

• Decathlon Vietnam – Kiprun & Kalenji lines offer excellent quality at affordable prices
• Coolmate – Vietnamese brand with Ex-Dry technology, good fit for Western riders

Why it matters: A proper base layer keeps you dry under riding jackets and improves comfort when wearing full big bike gear Vietnam for hours.

→ Read more Must-Try Northern Vietnamese Specialties For Travelers

2. Thermal Layer – Riding the Northern Highlands

If your route includes Ha Giang, Sapa, or Northwest Vietnam, especially between November and February, a thermal layer is essential.

Morning temperatures can drop below 5°C, combined with fog and wind chill.

Best Options

• Uniqlo Vietnam – Heattech (lightweight, easy to pack)
• Onoff – WarmMax series (local alternative, slim but effective)

A thin thermal layer fits easily under jackets and is a must-have item on any serious touring gear list.

Choosing the right clothing will help you comfortably navigate challenging terrain.

3. Rain Gear – Essential for Vietnam Riding

Rain in Vietnam is frequent and unpredictable, even during the dry season. Cheap street ponchos are dangerous at speed and offer poor protection.

Best Choice: Givi Rain Gear

• Two-piece rain suit
• Seam-sealed waterproof construction
• High-visibility reflectors
• Riding-specific fit

Why Givi dominates Vietnam roads: Professional tour companies and experienced riders consistently choose Givi for adventure gear Vietnam because it is reliable, compact, and designed for motorcycling.

4. Protective Gear & Small Riding Accessories

Safety should always come first, regardless of engine size.

Essential Accessories

• Buff / neck gaiter: UV protection, dust filtering, warmth
• Riding gloves: CE-certified knuckle and palm protection
• Knee & elbow guards: Highly recommended for mountain and frontier routes

Good Value Brands

• LS2
• Scoyco

These brands offer certified protection at reasonable prices and are widely available in Vietnam.

5. Helmet – Non-Negotiable Safety Equipment

Many helmets sold on the street in Vietnam meet only minimal local standards.

Helmet Checklist

• Full-face or modular design
• ECE or DOT certification
• Strong ventilation for tropical heat
• Secure chin strap and clear visor

Essential touring gear list for foreign motorbike travelers in Vietnam

Trusted Helmet Brands

• LS2
• AGV
• Shoei

For long-distance or Frontier Travel Vietnam, bringing your own helmet is strongly recommended.

6. Riding Jackets, Pants & Impact Protection

If you are riding long distances or using larger displacement bikes, proper armor is critical.

Key Features to Look For

• CE-rated shoulder, elbow, back, and knee protection
• Abrasion-resistant outer shell
• Ventilation panels
• Removable thermal liner

Recommended Brands: Alpinestars, Revit, Givi – well-suited for big bike gear Vietnam and mixed road conditions.

ECE-certified full-face helmet essential for big bike riding and long-distance travel in Vietnam

7. Clothing Strategy by Region & Season

Vietnam’s weather varies dramatically by region.

Northern Mountains

• Cold mornings
• Fog and rain
• Strong wind at elevation

Southern Lowlands

• Hot year-round
• Heavy rain during wet season

Smart Clothing System

• Moisture-wicking base layers
• Lightweight thermal layer
• UV-resistant long sleeves
• Quick-dry riding socks

Avoid cotton clothing—it stays wet and uncomfortable.

8. Motorcycle Luggage & Practical Accessories

Focus on function, not gadgets.

Essentials

• Waterproof saddle bags or top box
• Phone mount with vibration dampener
• USB charger or power bank
• Cable lock
• Chain lubricant (important in rainy season)

Soft luggage is often better for rough terrain and off-road sections.

9. Documents & Travel Essentials

Do not overlook non-gear items.

Required Items

• Passport and photocopies
• International Driving Permit
• Travel insurance covering motorcycle riding
• Offline navigation maps
• Emergency contact card

Store all documents in waterproof pouches.

10. Where to Buy Motorbike Gear in Vietnam

Hanoi

• Givi Point Hanoi (Cau Giay) – rain gear, luggage, ADV accessories
• FanFan Shop (Ba Dinh) – helmets, gloves, jackets
• Tay Ho (West Lake) – easier to find larger sizes

Ho Chi Minh City

• Givi Point Saigon (District 7, Bình Thạnh)
• Saigon Helmet (District 1 & 3)
• Decathlon Vietnam – base layers and thermals

Official website: https://www.decathlon.vn

11. Riding Gear Size Conversion

Vietnamese sizes usually run smaller than EU or US standards.

EU Size	Vietnam Size
M	L
L	XL
XL	XXL

Always try gear on before purchasing.

FAQs – Motorbike Packing List Vietnam

Is rental riding gear in Vietnam reliable?

→ Most rental gear is basic and not certified.

Should I bring my own helmet?

→ Yes, especially for long-distance travel.

Can I find large riding gear sizes in Vietnam?

→ Yes, but availability is limited.

Is rain gear really necessary?

→ Absolutely. Rain is frequent year-round.

Are local helmets safe?

→Many are not certified—check carefully.

Do I need big bike gear for small engines?

→ Yes. Protection matters regardless of engine size.

Conclusion – Ride Prepared, Ride Confident

Vietnam is one of the best countries in the world for motorbike travel, but preparation is key. By following a proven motorbike packing list, foreign riders can stay safe, comfortable, and confident on every route.

With the right touring gear list, reliable big bike gear Vietnam, and locally available adventure gear Vietnam, you’ll be ready for anything—from city roads to true Frontier Travel Vietnam.