Where Do I Store My Backpack Before the Ha Giang Loop? (Plus 18 Pre-Loop Planning Tips You Didn't Know You Needed)
- Faye Hilling
- Sep 5
- 10 min read
Updated: Oct 28
So, you’ve heard the whispers—from backpacker bars in Koh Rong to hostel common rooms in Bangkok. There’s this thing in northern Vietnam.
Twisty roads, misty mountains, rice terraces that look photoshopped, and more motorbikes than sense. Yep, we’re talking about the legendary Ha Giang Loop.
But before you saddle up and speed off into the mountains with the wind in your hair and questionable helmet fit, let’s take a beat.
There are a few things you need to know before the Ha Giang Loop—some practical, some cultural, and some that’ll just make your trip 1000x better (like how to not leave your backpack in the wrong city).
This guide covers it all—from visas and vaccines to Easy Riders and emergency numbers. Whether you’re planning months ahead or booking a tour at the eleventh hour, here’s how to prep like a pro (or at least like someone who doesn’t end up wearing flip-flops on a mountain pass).
Let’s get you Loop-ready.
Tips Before You Arrive in Vietnam
1. Check Your Visa First
Let’s get the paperwork out of the way. Most nationalities do need a visa to enter Vietnam. No, you can’t just show up and smile your way in.
Apply for a 90-day e-visa online via the official government website (don’t get scammed by third-party sites).
Print a copy and keep a digital version saved. Trust us.
2. Health Prep
We’re not saying you need to become a travel nurse, but a quick visit to your doctor before takeoff is a smart move:
Recommended jabs: Hep A, Hep B, Typhoid, Tetanus.
If you're a dog lover, consider rabies too.
If you plan to be in rural areas, you’ll also need Japanese Encephalitis.
Pack mosquito repellent (hello, dengue season) and bring a mini pharmacy: anti-diarrhea meds, painkillers, motion sickness pills, etc.
3. Travel Insurance: The Only Thing as Important as Your Helmet
Whether you're Easy Riding or self-driving, insurance is a must.
Make sure your policy covers motorbike accidents in Vietnam.
Hospitals may ask for payment upfront. Don’t be caught without coverage.
Crashed bike? Lost bag? Monkey stole your GoPro? It happens. Be prepared.
Related article: What is the Best Insurance for the Ha Giang Loop?
4. Copies of Important Docs
Take photos or make physical copies of your:
Passport.
Visa.
Insurance card.
It might seem unnecessary to be carrying all this paper around in this age, but if anything happens you will be grateful for the preparation.
Tips When You Arrive in Vietnam
5. Get a Vietnamese SIM Card
Even if you're planning to be blissfully offline, a SIM card is a lifesaver for maps, translations, and emergencies.
Best carriers: Viettel and VinaPhone (great coverage, even in the mountains).
Cost: Around 200k VND for a month of data. Bargain.
Ask staff at Bong Hanoi or Bong Ha Giang for advice on SIM cards.
6. Download Offline Apps
Even with a SIM card, you’ll hit dead zones. That’s when these apps come to the rescue:
Google Maps (offline version).
Maps.me (extra detailed for remote areas).
Google Translate (download Vietnamese offline).
Grab or Green SM (for transport in the cities).
Make sure to pin the following map points before you set off:
Homestays.
Fuel stops.
Landmarks.
Tips Before You Get to Ha Giang
7. Book Your Ha Giang Loop Tour with Bong Hostel
At Bong Hostel, we don’t just help you ride the Loop—we help you ride it right.
Why Loop with Bong?
Free luggage storage in Ha Giang.
Experienced Easy Riders or DIY motorbike options.
Small, social groups (not dangerous herds of 50+ riders).
All-inclusive packages (accommodation, meals, gear, helmets, bike).
Safety-first, fun-always philosophy.
Book online or swing by Bong Hanoi to chat with our friendly crew.
Related article: Why You Should Do The Ha Giang Loop With Bong Hostel.
8. Where Do I Store My Big Backpack Before the Ha Giang Loop?
Short answer: At Bong Ha Giang Hostel.
Long answer:
Do not leave your main backpack in Hanoi (even at Bong Hanoi). You might not be coming back that way.
Bring your luggage with you to Bong Ha Giang Hostel. We'll lock it up, and keep it safe until you're back.
Ride the Loop with a small backpack. Easy Riders will put it into a waterproof sack and strap it to the bike.
You might not realise it while you're perched on a tiny stool in Hanoi, munching on bánh mì and sipping coconut coffee, but you're about to have the time of your life.
And a big part of that? The people.
You could meet new travel buddies and end up traveling the rest of Vietnam together. It’d be a real shame to backtrack to Hanoi just to grab your backpack—especially when they’re off partying on a boat in Ha Long Bay.
Related article: What Backpack Do I Need for the Ha Giang Loop?
Packing & Prep Before the Ha Giang Loop
9. Your Ha Giang Loop Packing List
Less is more when you're on a bike. You don’t want to feel like a mobile laundry rack.
Essentials:
Passport… or that photocopy (you’ll need it to check into homestays).
Small backpack (waterproof cover optional).
3-4 outfits (you’ll re-wear, trust us).
Layers (mornings are chilly, afternoons toasty).
Rain jacket or at Bong Hostel we provide ponchos.
Swimwear and a microfiber towel.
Sandals for homestays (although with Bong they are provided)
Comfy closed-toe shoes for the bike.
Sunglasses & sunscreen.
Toiletries (travel-sized).
Power bank.
Wired ear phones.
Bonus Items:
Reusable water bottle.
GoPro or phone mount.
First aid kit (band-aids, electrolytes, meds).
Snacks.
Sleep mask & earplugs (karaoke and roosters, baby).
Small travel lock (for daypack security).
Neck gaiter for dusty roads.
Hat or scarf to wear inside your helmet (better fit and more hygienic).
Related article: What to Pack for the Ha Giang Loop: The Ultimate Guide.
What to Bring (or Not Forget) Before the Ha Giang Loop
10. Bring a Gift for Your Easy Rider
Your Easy Rider is your guide, chauffeur, and vibe curator. A small gift breaks the ice while you’re on the road and helps you bond more easily.
Local snack.
Cold drink.
Small token from home.
No pressure, just a nice gesture.
11. Cash is King (ATMs Aren’t)
Don’t count on card readers or cash machines once you leave Ha Giang City.
Bring at least 2-3 million VND in cash for:
Snacks, drinks, souvenirs.
Tips for your Easy Rider.
Entrance fees or activities (caves, boats, etc.)
Important note: with Bong Hostel there are no hidden costs, so everything including activities and entrance fees are covered.
Related article: How Much Should You Tip Your Easy Rider on the Ha Giang Loop?
Dong tips:
Withdraw at TPBank or LPBank in Hanoi to avoid big fees.
Break large bills into smaller ones.
Never put money on the floor—it’s culturally disrespectful.
12. Do I Need an International Driver’s Permit?
Yes—if you’re driving yourself. Otherwise you can face hefty fines and your insurance might not cover accidents.
Here’s what you need:
You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) 1968 Convention.
This IDP must have motorbike coverage (A1 Category must be stamped).
A valid motorbike license from home is also required.
As of January 2025, when new regulations were introduced in Vietnam, police checks have become more frequent along the Ha Giang Loop.
Not confident? Let an Easy Rider do the hard work while you soak up the scenery.
Don’t Mess with the Checkpoints
Last year, you might’ve breezed through a checkpoint with nothing more than a warning—if you even got stopped.
But things have changed.
These days, fines for riding without the proper paperwork can hit upwards of 3 million VND, and it’s not uncommon to be stopped more than once.
Important: Do not take photos or videos of the police at checkpoints. This isn’t just a polite suggestion—it’s a serious cultural boundary in Vietnam, and even locals avoid it. Filming the police can land you in hot water very quickly.
If you’re stopped and riding illegally, don’t argue. Don’t film. Don’t start a philosophical debate about road laws.
Accept the fine, pay it respectfully, and carry on. We’d rather not have to collect you from a police station because your bike, your passport—and your patience—got confiscated after you tried to outwit the law.
13. Check the Weather Before You Ride
Northern Vietnam is unpredictable, especially Ha Giang. A dry morning can turn to misty mayhem by lunch.
Best season: October to April (dry, cool, magical).
Wet season: May to September (lush but slippery).
Bring layers and waterproofs, no matter what the forecast says.
Related article: Rain or Shine: Your Guide to Ha Giang Loop Weather.
Bonus Pre-Loop Planning Tips
14. Learn a Few Vietnamese Phrases
You don’t need to be fluent, but a little effort goes a long way:
Xin chào (Hello).
Cảm ơn (Thank you).
Ngon! (Delicious!).
Tôi không biết lái xe (I don’t know how to drive).
Dừng lại! (Stop!).
Locals will love you for trying.
15. Know the Emergency Numbers
Save these in your phone:
Police: 113.
Fire Department: 114.
Ambulance: 115.
Emergency Rescue: 112.
Support for Children: 111.
You probably won’t need them, but better safe than sorry.
16. Respect the Region
Don’t litter (bring your trash back).
Dress modestly in villages.
Don’t drone without asking.
17. Avoid Tap Water
Stick to bottled or boiled water. Bring a reusable bottle and fill up at Bong Hostel.
18. Have a Post-Loop Plan
You’ll return to Ha Giang tired, sun-kissed, and full of stories.
Know your next move:
Staying the night?
Heading back to Hanoi?
Sort it before the Loop starts, or at least know your options—because post-loop depression is coming for you and making decisions after the loop is the last thing you want to do.
If you need help with your post-loop plans, check out the following article: Beyond the Ha Giang Loop: How Bong Hostel Takes You to the Next Adventure.
19. Book Early
Our tours fill up fast, especially in peak season (October to April). Booking early means:
Your spot is secured.
You can ask for a preferred Easy Rider.
Less stress, more Loop.
Book Your Ha Giang Loop Tour with Bong Hostel
So, you’ve figured out what to pack, when to go, how to avoid monsoons and motorbike mishaps—and now it’s time for the most important step: actually booking your tour.
Here’s why Bong Hostel is the go-to choice for travelers wanting to do the Ha Giang Loop:
Bag Storage? Sorted. We’ll keep your big bag safe and sound in Ha Giang so you can ride free and light.
No Route Stress. Our experienced team handles all the planning—accommodation, food, epic viewpoints, waterfall stops, and surprise karaoke nights? Check, check, and check.
Easy Rider Options. Not confident on a bike? No problem. Book an easy rider and sit back while someone else does the driving—and still get all the views (and the Happy Water).
Fun Atmosphere. We’re not saying we throw the best family dinners, but… yes, yes we are.
Support Along the Way. Flat tire? Dodgy weather? Existential crisis at Lung Cu Flag Tower? We’ve got your back.
You can book your Ha Giang Loop tour directly through Bong Hostel’s website or in person at our Hanoi or Ha Giang locations.
Need help deciding on start dates, ride options, or whether to go full party mode with a group tour or slow and scenic with a private tour?
Just ask—we’ll help you build the Loop that suits your style.
Pre-Loop Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Can I store my backpack before doing the Ha Giang Loop?
A. Yes! At Bong Hostel we offer free, secure luggage storage for guests doing the Loop. It’s a great way to travel light while keeping your belongings safe.
Q. Do I need a motorbike license or International Driving Permit (IDP)?
A. While many travelers ride without one—and get significantly fined now—it’s highly recommended to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) with a valid motorcycle endorsement. It’s often required for travel insurance to cover you in case of an accident.
Related article: Can I Do the Ha Giang Loop Without a License?
Q. Can I do the Ha Giang Loop if I don’t know how to ride a motorbike?
A. Absolutely—you don’t need to ride to experience the Loop! Many travelers opt for an Easy Rider, which means hopping on the back of a motorbike with one of our experienced local guides.
If you’re keen to ride yourself, Bong Hostel can help you prepare. We offer morning lessons with our Ha Giang Loop Tour Leaders to assess your skills and build your confidence.
But if we feel you're not quite ready to ride safely, we’ll recommend switching to Easy Rider—your safety is our top priority.
Q. How many days should I plan for the Ha Giang Loop?
A. Most travelers choose the 3 or 4-day tour, but longer options (like 5–7 days) allow more time for scenic detours and cultural stops. Bong Hostel offers flexible packages.
Related article: What is the Cao Bang Loop? Bong Hostel's New 5D 4N Tour.
Q. What’s the best time of year to do the Ha Giang Loop?
A. The Loop is rideable year-round, but September to November and March to May offer the best weather—cooler temperatures and clearer skies.
Q. What should I pack for the Ha Giang Loop?
A. Essentials include a windbreaker or rain jacket, sturdy shoes, sun protection, minimal toiletries, small backpack, insurance, and your passport. Bong Hostel provides a helpful packing checklist.
Q. Is it safe to self-ride the Ha Giang Loop?
A. Yes, but it depends on your comfort and experience level. Roads can be winding and steep. If in doubt, book a group tour or Easy Rider through a trusted provider like Bong Hostel.
Related article: Is the Ha Giang Loop Dangerous for First-Time Riders?
Q. Can I book a Ha Giang Loop tour in advance?
A. Yes. It’s smart to book your tour ahead of time, especially during high season. Bong Hostel lets you reserve online or in person with flexible options.
Final Word: The Loop is Waiting
You made it to the end of this guide? You’re already 10 steps ahead of most Loop-goers. The Ha Giang Loop is wild, scenic, challenging, and completely worth it—especially when you plan ahead.
At Bong Hostel, we’ve helped thousands of travelers have the ride of their lives. Whether you’re Easy Riding, self-driving, or still deciding, we’re here to help you do the Ha Giang Loop the right way.
Ready to ride?
Book your Ha Giang Loop tour with Bong Hostel today and kick off the adventure of a lifetime. We’ll sort the details—you just show up with all of the above!
Spots fill fast, so don’t miss the Loop!