Planning your first overnight train journey from Hanoi to Sapa? This scenic 8-hour ride from Vietnam's capital to the northern mountains will surely be memorable. Here are all the essentials you should bring for this unforgettable adventure, and some will make you feel glad you knew!

Tech & Documents

A camera and power bank are necessary for Sapa trips (Photo: samsung-memory via unsplash)

Your smartphone with an e-ticket for exchanging the physical ticket and original passport for ticket verification before boarding are absolutely the most important. Keep these easily accessible throughout your journey. You may bring a power bank in case charging outlets do not work well, and a universal adapter if you have multiple devices.

Tip: the train does not have a limit on number or capacity of power banks you can bring with you on board.

If you are sensitive to train sounds during the night, headphones will come in handy.

Money

Bring small changes for convenient purchase (Photo: Corporate Finance Institute)

Pack Vietnamese dong in small bills for snacks, tips, and the bus from Lao Cai station to Sapa town. ATMs can be found at the train station and in Sapa town, but it's best to have at least a few millions (100-200USD) with you just in case.

Clothing & Weather Gear

Bring suitable clothes for each season in Sapa (Photo: kindelmedia via pexels)

Sapa sits 1,500 meters above sea level, making it significantly cooler than Hanoi all year round. The mountain climate can shift dramatically in a single day, from sunny skies to thick fog and chilly rains. Below is a more detailed breakdown of what to pack for each season.

Spring (March-May): Light layers to easily add or remove, lightweight and packable raincoat, comfortable hiking/walking shoes for trekking.

Summer (June-August): Breathable, loose-fitting cotton or linen clothes to manage the heat, light jackets for cool evenings, waterproof jackets for heavy rains, quick-dry fabrics preferred, a waterproof bag for electronic items like phone or camera.

Autumn (September-November): Medium-weight layers, warm jacket for dropping temperatures, waterproof gear in the early season.

Winter (December-February): Heavy winter coat, warm hat and gloves, wool scarf, thermal layers, waterproof boots for potential frost and light snow.

On-the-Go Essentials

Bring travel-sized toiletries in case amenities are limited (Photo: Kenvue)

If you are traveling on a standard local train, the restrooms are basic with shared facilities that sometimes run low on supplies like hand sanitizer/soap and toilet paper. Hence, personal hygiene items are crucial for staying comfortable. Pack travel-sized toiletries including hand sanitizer, toothbrush, toothpaste, tissues, and wet wipes for staying fresh when washing facilities are limited.

For tourist trains, these basic toiletries are usually provided, but you may bring your own to ensure you have what you prefer.

While trains carry basic medical supplies like bandages and antiseptics, pack your personal medications, pain relievers, and especially insect repellent for Sapa's outdoor mountain adventures

For A Cozy Train Ride

Transform your sleeper cabin into a cozy retreat with a few key items. Most trains don't provide slippers; only a few tourist trains do. Hence, packing your own for padding around your cabin and to the shared restroom will be much more convenient. Earplugs and an eye mask would be helpful since corridor lights stay on and trains can be noisy. A light blanket or sleeping bag liner adds extra warmth and hygiene peace of mind for a better night's rest.

Snacks and Drinks

Bring some snacks for more energy and enjoyment (Photo: the-organic-crave via unsplash)

The dining trolley on trains serves basic Vietnamese dishes, instant noodles, and drinks, but options are limited. Train staff normally serve once or twice after the train departs and will stop quickly to let passengers rest. Tourist trains usually provide complimentary snacks and bottled water (plus selected drinks in VIP cabins), but do not expect luxury. Therefore, bring your favorite snacks to supplement your train meals and make your trip more convenient when dining service is unavailable.

Other Important Packing Tips

While packing all essentials provides you peace of mind from start to finish, remember that you can buy most forgotten items in Sapa, so don't stress about perfect preparation and bring too much. Here are some useful tips for your Hanoi - Sapa train adventure.

• Pack light with a soft bag rather than heavy suitcases since you'll carry luggage up narrow train steps.
• Skip valuable items and formal clothes.
• Wear your heaviest items like boots and jackets to save precious luggage space.
• Check Sapa's weather forecast to bring suitable clothes.
• Create a small overnight bag with train comfort essentials so you don't need to dig through main luggage.