Useful Information for Backpacking Thailand & Vietnam

You'll use a different currency in each country:

• Thailand: Thai baht (THB). ATMs are everywhere, but Thai banks charge a flat fee of around 220–350 THB per foreign-card withdrawal, so take out larger amounts less often.
• Vietnam: Vietnamese dong (VND). ATMs are easy to find but most cap each withdrawal, commonly at 2–5 million VND.

Try to spend your last baht before you fly to Hanoi.

Cards and phone payments work in hotels and larger restaurants, but street food, markets and small shops are cash only. If an ATM offers to convert the amount into your home currency, choose to be charged in the local currency.

This trip runs all year, and the weather changes as you travel. November to April is the driest overall. Thailand is at its best from November to February, while northern Vietnam can be cool then (around 10–15°C at night in December and January) and central Vietnam, around Hoi An, can stay wet until December. March and April are hot but dry across both countries.

From June to October, Thailand's Andaman coast and the north get their rainy season and seas can be rough, and central Vietnam's heaviest rain and typhoon risk falls from September to December. Rain usually comes in short, heavy bursts. See our Thailand and Vietnam weather guides.

Yes. Covering up is a sign of respect for the temple and the monks who often live there, and at some sites, including Bangkok's Grand Palace and Angkor Wat, you'll be turned away if you don't.

• Cover your shoulders and knees: long trousers or a long skirt or dress, and a top with sleeves.
• Avoid vests, crop tops and low-cut or see-through clothing.
• Take your shoes off where you see others doing so.

A light scarf or sarong in your daypack makes it easy to cover up on the go.

We have a minimum age requirement of 18 years old to join the tour. Group members aged 16-17 years old are welcome to join the tour but only with a family member that will act as their guardian whilst on tour. Aside from that, no age requirements at all! While our target age is 20-45, what matters most is mindset. If you’re looking for a backpacking-style experience, with hostel-style stays, local transport, and optional evening activities - you’re welcome to join us.

We highly recommend that you travel with insurance for complete peace of mind. Please click here.

Can’t convince your mates? No worries! Most of our travellers come solo, and it’s one of the best ways to experience a new destination.

You’ll join an instant crew, meet amazing people, and make new friends from day one. Plus, you can keep your travel plans flexible and fully your own.

Ready to roll solo? You won’t be alone for long.

Absolutely. Your payment is secure. Backpacking Tours is a licensed tour operator in Thailand (TAT Licence No.11/12642), and we use trusted international payment providers. Your booking is safe, and our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Your group leader will email you around 1 day before the tour starts.

Your passport must have at least six months’ validity and two blank pages. You should also have proof of onward travel.

Call your group leader using the number sent in your welcome email. They will assist you.