What to Pack for the Ha Giang Loop in Rainy Season: 15+ Must-Haves (June to Sept)

Cue dramatic movie voice: "One road. A thousand hairpin turns. Torrential rain. One backpacker must face... the elements."

Okay, okay—so I’m being dramatic. But if you’re about to tackle the Ha Giang Loop in Vietnam’s rainy season, you better be packed smarter than opting for a bánh mì on a budget. 

Because once the skies open up, soggy socks and slippery slopes will have you questioning all your life decisions.

But don’t worry—Bong Hostel is here to help! We’ve been soaked, splashed, and sunburned enough times on the Ha Giang Loop in rainy season to advise you on exactly what to pack!

Why Packing Smart for Rainy Season Matters

When Is the Rainy Season in Ha Giang?

• Typical season: Late May to September

• Peak rainfall: July & August

• Temperature range: 25°C–30°C

• Humidity: Up to 95% (aka, the “sweaty-face and frizzy-hair” combo)

Ha Giang’s winding mountain passes and dramatic valleys are unforgettable—but so are its sudden, sock-soaking downpours. 

One moment you're cruising under clear skies, the next you're swallowed by a fog bank thick enough to butter toast with.

That’s why packing smart for the Ha Giang Loop in rainy season is absolutely essential. 

Your comfort, safety, and even your ability to laugh through the chaos of a surprise thunderstorm all come down to what’s in your backpack.

Related article: Rainy Season on the Ha Giang Loop: Tips, Safety, & What to Expect.

Rainy Season Doesn’t Always = A Rainy Loop

But before you panic-pack your entire wardrobe: let’s not pretend the Loop is always a washout.

On my July ride this year? Not a single drop of rain—just four straight days of sunshine, blazing blue skies, and near-perfect riding weather.

Moral of the story? Packing smart means being ready for anything: a tropical downpour, a chilly mountain morning, or an impromptu swim under a waterfall.

If you skip the sunscreen or ditch the swimwear thinking “it's the rainy season,” you might just regret it halfway through the trip.

Related article: Rain or Shine: Your Guide to Ha Giang Loop Weather.

The Best Ha Giang Loop Backpack Setup 

1. First Rule: Don’t Overpack

Packing smart doesn’t just mean being weather-ready—it also means not overpacking. 

You don’t want to be the person getting their Easy Rider to bungee a giant suitcase onto the back of your bike while you watch in humiliated horror.

Here’s the golden rule:

If it doesn’t fit into a 20L backpack, you’ve packed too much.

Why? Because lighter = safer, easier, and more fun. It’s easier to ride, easier to access your stuff, and way less stressful when you're repacking every morning. 

Trust me—your back, your guide, and your future self will thank you.

2. Waterproof Cover or Dry Bag

The clue is in the season—there’s a high chance you will hit rain on your Loop tour. Don’t leave your backpack exposed. 

A waterproof bag to slip your backpack into, and a dry bag to keep smaller items in like phone, wallet, etc. can be a lifesaver. 

Pssst! With Bong Hostel, we provide waterproof bags to keep all your possessions nice and dry!

3. Electronics: From Power Banks to Cameras

A good camera will help you capture epic bends and ultimate selfies. Pack an extra SD card—memory fills up fast.

In remote villages there are often frequent blackouts and unreliable power outlets. Power banks are going to be your trusty companions here.

Just don’t forget your power cables—trust me, it happens!

4. Important Documents: Passport, License, and Insurance

Keep them dry and safe in a ziplock or waterproof pouch. 

Some areas have police checkpoints, and you will need your passport and correct international driving license.

Related article: What is the Best Insurance for the Ha Giang Loop?

5. Vietnamese SIM Card (VinaPhone Recommended)

• Coverage in remote valleys.

• Data for maps, translation apps, and emergency calls.

6. Offline Maps and Translation Packs

• Pre-download Google Maps areas and Vietnamese in Google Translate.

• Avoid roaming charges and spotty 4G.

7. Cash Stash

• ATMs are few and far between outside Ha Giang city.

• Keep a mix of small denominations (20,000–100,000 VND).

In total we recommend taking:

• Easy Riders: 2-3 million as a passenger (this includes any snacks, drinks, and souvenirs you want to buy, as well as a tip for your Easy Rider).

• Self Riders: 9-10 million for self riders who are not carrying the correct international driving license (fines are a thing and they will happen to you!).

Related article: New Traffic Laws in Vietnam 2025: What Travelers Need to Know.

Motorbike Must-Haves for Rainy Season

8. Helmet

• Full-face or visor are the best ones to combat hard-hitting raindrops.

• Provided by most tours, but double-check fit and certification.

• If you don’t have a visor, pack a neck gaiter to cover your face from dust and rain.

Pro Tip: Bring your own helmet liner for hygiene—I use a hat, scarf, or neck gaiter!

9. Raincoat / Ponchos

• Ponchos are included with a Bong Hostel tour but if you’re like me and want more protection pop a waterproof coat and pair of trousers in your bag.

• They usually pack down small, are lightweight and breathable and won’t leave you sweating in a plastic bag… I mean poncho!

10. Gloves for Self Drivers

• Waterproof or at least water-resistant.

• Grip protection for slippery handles.

• They also double as your first line of defense against rogue gravel if you take a tumble.

Bonus: Padded palms help on long stretches and touch screen compatibility makes everything easier. 

11. Eye Protection

• Sunglasses with UV protection or clear goggles for rain.

• Keep wind, dust, bugs, and raindrops out—your eyes will love you.

12. Phone Mount (Optional but Awesome)

• Secure, hands free navigation, easy access to your playlist, and epic POV footage.

• Make sure it’s sturdy—smartphones haven’t learnt how to fly yet.

Clothing Essentials to Help You Survive Rainy Season 

Spoiler: You don’t need seven outfits. You need layers, quick-dry fabrics, and clothes you’re not emotionally attached to.

13. Tops

• 2 quick-dry t-shirts or long sleeves (I always wear long sleeves because the UV in Ha Giang is no joke).

• 2 evening tops its nice to have a change of outfit from the clothes you’ve been wearing all day 

• 1 jumper for chillier nights and if the AC gets cranked up in the dorm

• 1 lightweight waterproof jacket (yes, I’m saying it again)

Top Tip: Humidity = sweat. Choose quick-dry, breathable fabrics like merino wool or synthetics over cotton. Cotton stays damp and cold, especially at higher altitudes.

14. Bottoms

• 1 pair of long pants (lightweight hiking trousers, combat trousers, or leggings, not jeans—unless you love soggy denim sadness)

• 2 pairs of shorts for warm afternoons and evenings

• Undies & socks x 3–4 (quick-dry = golden)

15. Footwear

• Waterproof with non-slip soles

• Comfortable for walking AND riding

• Lightweight and breathable (because 95% humidity isn’t cute)

• At homestays slippers are provided but if you want to bring your own that’s up to you

Pro tip: If you’re planning on tackling the Skypath and other small hikes breathable trainers with a decent grip will do the trick.

16. Additional Items

• Swimming costume/shorts

• Microfibre Towel (for the Ha Giang Loop swimming opportunities)

For a full packing list breakdown, click here: What to Pack for the Ha Giang Loop: The Ultimate Guide.

Travel-Smart Toiletries to Pack for the Ha Giang Loop

13. The Essentials

• Toothbrush + toothpaste

• Shampoo + conditioner

• Mini deodorant

• Sunscreen 

• Insect repellent

• Lip balm + moisturizer (mountain wind is sneaky dry)

• Wet wipes (hygiene on the go = essential)

14. Optional but Smart

• Travel soap/shower gel

• Razor

• Basic first aid kit: painkillers, plasters, antiseptic cream, Immodium, Motillium, personal medications, motion sickness pills, Tiger Balm

Travel Tips & Safety: More Than Just What to Pack

• Daily Bike Check: Brakes, tires, lights.

• Avoid Night Riding: Fog, torrential rain, potholes, and pitch-black curves are not your friends.

• Respect Local Customs: Ask before photographing, dress modestly in villages.

• Laundry Options: Don’t pack your life. You can wash along the way.

• Weather Watch: Use a reliable forecast app; adjust plans for heavy downpours.

• Learn basic Vietnamese phrases: This will go a long way with locals.

• Embrace the chaos: The best stories come from rain-soaked detours and surprise noodle stops.

Related article: North Vietnam Travel Tips: 30 Essential Tips for Travelers in 2025.

Bonus Tip: Where to Leave the Rest of Your Stuff

If you’re on a Bong Hostel Ha Giang Loop tour, we’ve got you covered. Leave your big bags in our Bong Ha Giang Hostel—secure, dry, and waiting for you post-loop. 

If you’re riding solo, most hostels offer luggage storage while you explore the loop.

Final Thoughts on Your Rainy Season Must-Haves 

Riding the Ha Giang Loop in rainy season isn’t just about surviving the weather—it’s about embracing the adventure. 

The mist-covered mountains, the mirror-glass rice paddies, the steaming noodle bowls after a wet ride… it’s all part of the magic.

Pack smart, ride safe, and keep your socks dry. We’ll see you at Bong Hostel with hot coffee and great stories when you return.

Ready to ride into the rain? Book your Ha Giang Loop tour with Bong Hostel now!