What to Pack for a Ha Giang Loop Easy Rider Tour

Getting ready for the Ha Giang Loop as an Easy Rider, and wondering what to pack? Trust me, I’ve been there, staring at my backpack and thinking, “Do I really need all this?”

Spoiler alert: you don’t.

But there are definitely a few essentials that will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

From the stunning mountain views to the long stretches of bumpy road (seriously, your backside will thank you for some comfort planning), being prepared can make a world of difference. The weather can be unpredictable, the roads can be rough, and there’s always the possibility of a random rain shower or two—so packing smart is key.

Let me walk you through the must-haves to make sure you’re all set for an epic ride on the Ha Giang Loop!

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That said, there’s a few specific things I recommend bringing– and remember, you won’t have your WHOLE bag with you on the Loop, so you’ll only need enough for about 4 days max.

This clothing list is based off what I myself wore AND what the drivers wore. If they’re wearing close-toed shoes and long pants, then so should you.

Merino wool shirt(s): You won’t have time to do laundry and you also won’t want to bring a ton of clothing with you to carry around, so a good solution is bringing two Merino wool shirts.

Merino wool is great for travel as it doesn’t smell as quickly as cotton or polyester clothing, so you can re-wear it for several days in a row. And even though it’s made of wool, it’s not going to make you sweat in the Vietnamese heat!

There’s lots of different Merino wool clothing options, and I recommend trying a few as the quality definitely differs. I’m sensitive to wool and so far the only brands that don’t make me itch a lot are Uniqlo and Eileen Fisher.

If you’re not as sensitive to wool, then SmartWool has good affordable shirts, or else North Face or Icebreaker.

Long pants: Two reasons: first it’s good protection when you’re on the road (from sun and bugs and random crap that gets kicked up), second because it can get cold up in Ha Giang and you’ll be grateful for the extra layer.

I recommend bringing hiking pants because they hold up to dirt and being active. If you get the kind that zips off to shorts, you technically have two bottoms in one!

My hiking pants are Columbia brand, but really anything will do. You want something that will dry if it rains on you, so something not TOO thick or heavy.

Sun shirt: Sun protection is important! You’re going to be out in all kinds of weather and exposed to the elements. Bring a sun shirt and layer it over your t-shirt and protect yourself!

My favorite is Columbia, but REI also makes good UPF shirts.

Close-toed shoes & socks: Closed shoes protect your feet from dust, dirt, and road debris. Bring two pairs of wool hiking socks (I like Darn Tough) and you won’t have to worry about stinky feet OR that they won’t dry in time if and when it rains on you.

If you only have sandals (as some backpackers do on the banana pancake trail), then grab a pair of cheap socks or two and wear them as a layer.

Flip flops and pajamas: For the homestay. Also bring underwear obviously.

Warm clothes: If you think you’re going to get cold, bring a sweater and a jacket. I went on my Loop tour in November and I was freezing half the time, so I was very glad to have my merino wool sweater and nice long rain coat.

I don’t think you need to go as far as bringing thermal layers, but do bring a light sweater if you have one with you anyway. I have a thin merino wool one from Uniqlo that’s very nice! It’s similar to this one on Amazon.

Sunglasses: Protect your eyes! From the sun AND from the wind. Some helmets have face covers but it’s not guaranteed, and sunglasses will help with that.

Neck gaiter and/or face mask: The roads can get dusty, so a neck gaiter or mask will keep the dust out and add warmth in cooler areas. I actually layered a KN94 mask under my neck gaiter and super appreciated having them.

As for recommendations: I like Buff gaiters; they have one that’s polyester and good for staying cool, or a Merino wool one which can double as a warm scarf.

What if it rains? Your driver will have wet-weather gear for you, but you’d probably also do well with at least a rain jacket so you don’t have to wear the hideous rain gear when you’re looking at caves and stuff.

Phone charger & Power bank: You’ll want to take plenty of photos on the Loop, so a reliable phone charger is a must. Rugged, waterproof power banks like the MyCharge Adventure series ensure you won’t run out of battery during long rides and if you drop it somewhere it won’t break immediately.

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Universal plug adapter: The homestays all had plugs near the beds but you still will need an adapter. I like this lightweight one from Travelon.

Phone leash: If your phone is your main camera then it’s worth strapping it to yourself if you want to use it while on the back of the motorcycle (and you WILL want to use it!). Attach your phone to a phone leash and you won’t have to worry about accidentally dropping it when you try to record that cool buffalo walking by.

Camera stuff (if needed): If you do want to bring a proper camera, then of course bring whatever chargers, memory cards, etc. that you need. Taking a GoPro might be fun, especially if it has image stabilization so you don’t have to worry about bouncing around everywhere.

Prescription medications: If you take any daily medications, make sure to bring enough for the entire journey, as pharmacies may not be easily accessible on the road.

Hand sanitizer & Wet wipes: These are essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available. You might also want to stash a small roll of toilet paper in your daypack as not every roadside coffee shop toilet will have it available for guests.

Something else to think about: I only had a purse and it made it a bit harder to balance on the bike, plus it kept pushing into my poor driver’s back. A daypack would’ve been much better. I love my packable Eddie Bauer daypack.

Earplugs: These are great for getting a good night’s sleep whenever the rest of your group stays up late doing karaoke.

Toiletries: Bring basic items like a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap (shampoo/conditioner), and deodorant. The homestays will have stuff but it might not be anything you like, so better to bring your favorites if you have it.