18 Essential Tips for Traveling During the Lunar New Year

To ensure your trip during the New Year goes smoothly, it’s essential to be well-prepared and minimize unexpected issues. Traveling with a tour group can greatly reduce risks, as your guide or tour leader will be responsible for the trip’s success. They offer valuable knowledge about the area you're visiting, including tips on safe places for children, potential risks of theft, the best photo spots, and great places to eat and drink. They are there to assist and safeguard your well-being, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Therefore, before you begin your journey, make sure to pay attention to their advice and save their contact information in your phone’s contact list. This will help you reach them quickly in case of any emergencies or unexpected situations during your holiday trip.

During Tet, bus and train tickets tend to sell out quickly, so if you're planning to travel during this period, it's wise to book your tickets as early as possible. If you prefer flexibility, consider using a motorbike or renting a car (ideal for groups of 7 to 10 people). Make sure to check and maintain your vehicle before departure, and prioritize safety for yourself and your travel companions as you explore new destinations. If you're traveling by bus, you can either buy tickets at the station or opt for services from reputable companies. Be sure to purchase tickets at the designated counters and avoid hailing buses on the street to avoid overcrowding. When booking tickets with major bus companies, always follow the rules stated on your ticket for the best service. You’ll need to provide your full name and phone number when booking online or via the company hotline. To avoid sold-out tickets, consider booking a round-trip ticket for Tet. Once you've secured your tickets, either print them or save the electronic version on your phone or computer to present to the bus staff. Remember to pick up your ticket on the designated day and arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. For long-distance flights, such as to Europe or America, remember to stay hydrated, moisturize your skin, and take advantage of sleep whenever possible. These travel tips are well-known, but crucial for ensuring you remain energized. Also, avoid caffeine or alcohol as they can lead to dehydration. After waking up, drinking warm lemon water can aid digestion, prevent infections, and reduce joint swelling caused by long periods of sitting on the plane. Since the air on flights is very dry, moisturizing your skin is just as important as applying sunscreen. Reapply lotion every 4 hours during the flight. For those with dry skin, consider using a hydrating face mask. If you have trouble sleeping, a sleep mask is a helpful accessory. Additionally, using light fragrances such as lavender, rose, or vanilla essential oils can help relieve stress and create a more pleasant environment in the cramped airplane space. Simply spray your favorite scent on your travel pillow, eye mask, neck, or face to feel more relaxed and comfortable.

Booking your accommodation is a must if you're traveling independently. By reserving a hotel room in advance, you can compare services, save both time and money, and ensure you get the best deal. Additionally, you have the option to choose hotels that are conveniently located near your planned destinations or those that offer spacious rooms with scenic views. A simple online search will help you find a range of options. During the Lunar New Year, however, popular tourist spots and resorts tend to be fully booked, and prices often rise significantly. To secure a room at a reasonable rate, consider contacting travel agencies directly or using online booking platforms to find suitable accommodations. It’s best to plan this ahead of time to avoid any hassle and ensure a smooth, enjoyable trip.

When traveling during the Lunar New Year, food and drink become an important consideration. Many local businesses may still be closed during the early days of the New Year, so it’s wise to bring your own supplies. Plan ahead by packing enough food for the first two days of the holiday (the 1st and 2nd of Tet). Easy-to-pack options include Tet-specific treats like bánh chưng, fruits, boxed milk, cookies, or even homemade gimbab. Additionally, research dining options at your destination to find clean, safe, and tasty places to eat. You can find this information online or ask friends and family who have visited the area. Keep in mind that food prices tend to rise during Tet, so be sure to ask for prices at street vendors, night markets, or food stalls beforehand, and don’t hesitate to negotiate if the price seems unusually high. Moreover, many tourist spots run promotions during Tet, so be sure to take advantage of any deals or vouchers to enjoy a fun, affordable dining experience with your family.

When traveling, it’s essential to pack many things, such as clothes, personal items, identification, and a few medical supplies (band-aids, motion sickness tablets, stomach relief medication, headache medicine, etc.). While it’s important to be thorough, the goal is to pack light and compact. Avoid overpacking with unnecessary items that can make your bag heavy and cumbersome, as this can take away from the excitement and fun as soon as you pick up your suitcase. Personal documents are always crucial, especially for international travel. Before heading abroad, make sure to scan and email important documents like your passport, flight ticket, ID, and hotel reservation, or save them on your phone in case you don’t have internet access. Many travelers tend to bring more than one suitcase for longer trips, which often results in packing more than necessary. This can become problematic if your itinerary involves frequent transfers between trains, buses, or changing hotels. Losing luggage during a trip is common, especially when you have too much with you. To minimize this risk, limit yourself to carry-on luggage only. Be sure to check your bags carefully to ensure they comply with airline regulations before departure.

When traveling at the beginning of the year, whether domestically or internationally, it’s best not to carry all your cash or rely solely on an ATM card to avoid the risk of theft. Traveling to a new or unfamiliar destination may expose you to potential risks, such as losing your wallet or having your money stolen, or even struggling to find an ATM. The optimal solution is to bring both cash and an ATM card. Carry only a small amount of cash for emergencies or for small purchases during your trip, and transfer the rest to your bank account for safety.

In addition to knowing the costs, it's important to gather information about your destination: What are the local customs? What is the weather like during the Tết holiday, so you can plan accordingly? What are the local specialties that make great souvenirs? Doing your research helps you become more familiar with the place you're visiting and allows you to prepare for any specific personal items you might need (like an umbrella for light rain, or a scarf for cooler weather). Choose a destination that interests you and offers convenience. If your budget or time doesn’t allow international travel, explore local destinations. You can visit the cool mountains of the Northwest to experience Tết celebrations with ethnic minorities, or head to central Vietnam for the peaceful beauty of Huế, Da Nang, and Hoi An. For a quieter trip, try Quy Nhon or Phu Yen. No matter where you go, prioritize locations with good transportation and accessibility. Some must-visit destinations include Sapa with its snowy landscapes, Moc Chau’s stunning plum blossoms, or the warm coastal vibes of Nha Trang and Phan Thiet. Or, if you have the opportunity, take your loved ones on a trip to Southeast Asia, Japan, China, or Europe to celebrate the New Year!

To capture unforgettable moments, stunning landscapes, and the daily lives of locals, you can use a digital camera or even your smartphone, depending on what works for you. So, don’t forget to bring along a device to record your journey during this New Year’s trip. As you explore a new place, every scene you encounter is exciting and fresh. That's when a camera becomes an essential tool. Some of the best photos happen unexpectedly, so always have your camera ready. Remember, candid, natural moments are often more valuable than posed shots. A camera allows you to capture the activities of locals, groups conversing, or simply a visit to a landmark everyone dreams of seeing. All of these moments breathe life into your photos. Plus, capturing these memories during the New Year will bring back fond memories when you look back at them in the future. So, always bring a camera along!

Your health is crucial, and it should be your top priority. Without good health, you won't be able to enjoy your trip to the fullest. Therefore, ensure that both you and your travel companions stay healthy. A few days before departure, it’s a good idea to remind everyone to avoid eating leftover, cold, or unfamiliar foods to prevent stomach issues, indigestion, or diarrhea. If you're traveling by motorbike, refrain from consuming alcohol or any intoxicating substances to ensure your safety on the road.

Make sure to pack basic medications such as pain relievers, headache medicine, stomach remedies, and some medical supplies like bandages in case of emergencies. Common travel health concerns include respiratory issues, digestive troubles, or minor accidents while on the road.

Additionally, seasonal ailments like asthma can occur during the winter or spring, triggered by weather changes or other factors. So, always bring along any necessary medications, especially if you or a family member suffers from these conditions. If a child becomes ill during the trip and the symptoms worsen, seek medical attention immediately.

Use simple tricks and everyday items to stay beautiful no matter where you are. For loose powder, always add a cotton pad inside the compact to prevent it from breaking during travel.

For liquid cosmetics: To avoid leaks, tape over the bottle opening with plastic wrap or adhesive tape before sealing it tightly. When packing perfume, wrap the bottle in socks and place it inside your shoes. Alternatively, use solid perfumes or transfer some of your liquid fragrance into a small spray bottle.

To protect your makeup brushes from germs, place them inside a small plastic bag and secure the top with a rubber band or clip before packing. Keep each makeup item in its own pouch to prevent stains on your clothes from powders or lipsticks. Finally, pack all your cosmetics into a waterproof bag to keep them safe and dry when taking them into the bathroom. If you can, bring travel-sized samples, as they are compact, ready to use, and very convenient.

Snacks for flights should be easy to handle and not require refrigeration. Instead of the usual apples and bananas, try something more creative like kiwi, which has its own skin for easy eating without the need for bowls or plates. Almonds, placed in small bags, are also a convenient option for a quick snack.

Some dried fruits can be perfect for your trip. They are both practical and help minimize potential health risks related to food. Having snacks also boosts your mood if there are any bumps in your travel plans.

You won’t need to buy sweets while waiting to board. Instead, pick up some chocolate bars. Geagan, a frequent flyer, shares: 'I love dark chocolate with crunchy almonds. What you might not know is that the salt in the almonds helps with thirst during the flight. Eating plant-based snacks rich in sodium before flying helps prevent dehydration.'

The Lunar New Year is the perfect time to relax and spend quality moments with family and friends. Choosing the right, comfortable, and easy-to-clean clothing is key to making your Tet trip even more enjoyable. If your trip includes visiting relatives, dressing in elegant and sophisticated clothes is a safe choice.

In Vietnamese culture, bright colors like red, yellow, and orange are considered lucky, so wearing colorful outfits can add to the festive and joyful atmosphere of the New Year.

If your trip is more spiritual, seeking blessings for a prosperous and peaceful year, opt for neat, modest, and respectful clothing.

If you're planning a relaxing vacation in the mountains or on an island for the Tet holiday, simply choose clothing that suits the weather and ensures comfort, simplicity, and elegance. If you're headed to the beach, don't forget swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat. For cooler destinations like Da Lat, Sapa, or Ha Giang, pack warm clothes, low-heeled shoes, and scarves to stay cozy.

It's best to schedule your departure for early morning or late night. At these times, most people are still asleep, making traffic lighter and more manageable. Don't let heavy traffic delay your travel plans and tire out your family by making them wait in long lines.

During the holidays, traffic and security checks at airports can take up a lot of time, so arriving early can make the experience much more comfortable. Aim to arrive about 75 minutes before your domestic flight, and about 3 hours for international flights.

Gifts are an essential part of travel. Whether you're giving gifts to loved ones back home or receiving presents during your journey, you should always be aware of customs regulations. If you receive liquid gifts like perfumes or oils, make sure to pack them in your checked luggage, as liquids are usually restricted in carry-on bags.

Moreover, if you're traveling internationally, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the specific rules of the country you're visiting, as each country has different regulations on carry-on items. For wrapped gifts, it's advisable to remove the wrapping before flying, as they are often held for inspection by customs. When packing, double-check your items to ensure you don't have to leave behind any beloved gifts.

At the beginning of the year, many people travel to visit sacred places like temples and pagodas. These sites are deeply rooted in our cultural traditions, and as a result, they often attract large crowds during holidays. If you're planning to visit a temple to pray for good fortune, take some time to learn about the rules and customs that ensure respect and reverence. As shared by Dang Hoang Phuc, "Temples are sacred places, so it's important to dress modestly and respectfully. Women should avoid wearing skirts."

Many Vietnamese visitors to temples burn too much incense or scatter excessive amounts of money and gold paper. However, it's essential to practice moderation. You don't need to overdo it to receive blessings. Respecting the temple's atmosphere and preserving its beauty is crucial. On my own visits, I have been overwhelmed by the thick smoke and scattered gold paper, and it detracts from the peaceful and serene ambiance that one should feel when visiting these sacred places.

The Lunar New Year holiday usually lasts for about a week or more, depending on one's job. This is the longest holiday of the year, making it a perfect time for travel planning. However, before the holiday, everyone is typically busy finishing up tasks from the old year to welcome the new one with a fresh start and good fortune. During this time, companies and organizations operate at full capacity.

The Lunar New Year is also a traditional time for family reunions, where everyone gathers to celebrate, especially during the New Year's Eve meal or the first few days of the year, often referred to as "Visiting Father on Day 1, Mother on Day 2, and Teacher on Day 3".

If you decide to travel during this period, it's important to plan your time wisely to balance family commitments and avoid feeling guilty or stressed about missing out on family moments or other obligations. It’s much easier if you're single, but even if you're married, careful planning can help you make the most of both family time and your trip. This way, you’ll enjoy a more relaxed and fulfilling travel experience, without any interruptions. Planning ahead gives you ample time to book services in advance and prepare for your journey.

When planning a trip during the Lunar New Year, selecting a travel agency that offers good service and reliable packages is one of the first things you need to consider. However, choosing the right agency that balances cost-effectiveness with credibility and trustworthiness can be tricky.

There are numerous travel agencies offering different service packages, so it’s essential to compare various options in terms of program details, pricing, included services, and quality. You can find information on travel agencies through media outlets like newspapers and the internet—just a quick search will provide plenty of references.

One important tip: Avoid booking tours through intermediaries as this can lead to additional fees on top of the original cost set by the agency. Be sure to carefully check what’s included in the tour and what isn’t to avoid any misunderstandings down the road.

What exactly is an open tour? It’s a type of tour where meals are divided into two options: pre-arranged group meals or self-catered meals, depending on the customer’s preference. If you're on a special diet or prefer eating based on personal tastes, opting for the self-catering option might be more suitable. The tour price will be adjusted accordingly to exclude the meal costs.

For your health and the well-being of your group, it's important to pay attention to food hygiene and ensure you're getting the necessary nutrients for an active day. You can consult with your tour guide about local restaurants or recommended dishes. They are always happy to share helpful tips, both as a responsibility and to promote the local cuisine.

Before the trip, it’s advisable to discuss with your family whether to go on a self-planned trip or join a tour for maximum convenience. The advantage of booking a tour is that you don't need to worry about transportation, dining, accommodation, or the sightseeing schedule as everything is prearranged. Many families today choose organized tours for convenience and attractive New Year deals. On the other hand, if you prefer to travel independently, you'll need to plan thoroughly—from packing, accommodation, to transport arrangements.

Once you've chosen your destination, the next crucial step is planning your itinerary. Having a well-thought-out travel plan is always beneficial. You should calculate the travel time, the sequence of stops, must-see attractions, and additional costs. If you’re on a tour, this will already be planned out for you, and all you need to do is hop on the bus and enjoy the experience.