Here is Footprint Vietnam Travel’s version of a fun and helpful Before-you-go Checklist. Print this page out, stick it to your fridge, and begin checking off all the items.

2 - 3 months before you go:

᩿ Check your passport to ensure that it is valid with at least 6 months prior to the date you will arrive in Vietnam.
᩿ See your doctor to ensure your healthy and fit enough for your trip.
᩿ See your doctor or specialist about any necessary vaccinations.
᩿ Begin a book about Vietnam (fiction or nonfiction is okay).
᩿ Follow Footprint Vietnam Travel on Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates, news, and stories about Vietnam.

1 month before you go:

᩿ Look into and purchase the necessary travel insurance
᩿ Scan all your important documents and identification (including your passport) and email it to yourself and a friend at home
᩿ Start an address book of friends that you will want to send postcards to
᩿  Have a few business cards printed (you can make them yourself if you don’t have any)
᩿ Find a friend to water your plants and take care of your pets
᩿ Begin learning a few Vietnamese greetings
᩿ Start practising using chopsticks
᩿ Have our phone unlocked if you are planning to use your phone in Vietnam

1 week before you go:

᩿ Collect, print, and email any other important documents, like your itinerary
᩿ Get a few passport pictures for your visa on arrival in Vietnam (or if you are planning to travel to Cambodia or Laos)
᩿ Collect and record any important / emergency phone numbers - Email Footprint for their list as well
᩿ Prepare your lightweight, quick-dry clothing (summer), your warmer comfy clothes (winter months), as well as your sun hat, and swimsuit.
᩿ Prepare flashlight, alarm clock, sunglasses, insect repellent, personal first aid kit.
᩿ Prepare any medications, toiletries, and sunscreen.
᩿ Change money in US dollars (crisp $100 bills is best), or traveler checks (not recommended)
᩿ Prepare your breathable raincoat
᩿ Prepare footwear: sandals, hiking shoes, walking shoes
᩿ Cable locks for your luggage
᩿ Double check that your camera and photography equipment is in good working order
᩿ Buy any gifts you are planning on giving to friends or people you meet in Vietanam
᩿ Start your ‘Departure for Vietnam Countdown’ on Facebook

2 days before you go:

᩿ Reconfirm your flight
᩿ Clean out your fridge of perishables
᩿ Try to get some sleep, because the excitement is building!

1 day before you go:

᩿ Say your farewells
᩿ Zip up that suitcase, it’s time to head to Vietnam!

Safe and happy travels!