The Ultimate Guide To Flying Within Vietnam: Tips, Airlines, And Domestic Flights
Traveling across Vietnam can feel daunting, with the country’s many geographical divisions and distinct cultural regions. In fact, flying is often the most efficient way to navigate this vast country.
This guide gives you a detailed look at domestic air travel within Vietnam: from choosing the right airlines, tips for booking and check-in procedures to cost-effective deals on popular routes.
Ready? It’s time to reach your journey’s peak faster than ever!
Key Takeaways
- Domestic flights in Vietnam offer several advantages, including saving time and providing a comfortable travel experience.
- The top domestic airlines in Vietnam include Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Jetstar Pacific, Bamboo Airways, and Vietravel Airlines.
- When booking and checking in for domestic flights within Vietnam, you have various options available such as booking through airline websites or using online travel agencies like Skyscanner or Traveloka. Remember to check baggage allowances and arrive early at the airport.
Why Choose Domestic Flights in Vietnam?
When flying within Vietnam, domestic flights offer several advantages. They allow you to save time and reach your destination faster, while offering a comfortable travel experience.
In addition, domestic flights in Vietnam are often more affordable than other modes of transportation. With flexible schedules and convenient options for booking and checking in, flying domestically is the perfect choice for exploring this beautiful country.
Time constraints
In Vietnam, flying is the fast way to travel. If you don’t have a lot of time, taking a domestic flight is good. It can take you far in less time. You will not waste hours on long car or train rides.
This helps when your trip to Vietnam is short and full of things to do. So saving time by flying lets you see and do more!
Comfortability
Flying within Vietnam gives you comfort. The seats in the planes are cozy. You can sit, relax and enjoy your trip. Also, many airlines offer snacks and drinks for free. There is no need to worry about long bus rides or bumpy roads.
Each plane has cool air-conditioning too. This keeps you fresh during hot days. Noise-cancelling headphones are also provided by some airlines. These let you watch movies or listen to music without disturbance from the plane’s noise.
Cost
You might need to spend a bit more money on flying within Vietnam than taking a bus. But, the price is still easy for many people to pay. You can save money if you buy your ticket before you fly.
The cost may go up around times when many people want to fly like holidays. If you are coming from the US, a round-trip ticket could be between $500 and $800. Keep in mind that they will not count your checked bags as part of your ticket price in Vietnam’s local flights.
Schedule
Flying within Vietnam offers the convenience of having a flexible schedule. With domestic flights available between major cities, you can easily plan your travel according to your preferred timing.
Whether you need to reach your destination quickly or have specific time constraints, domestic flights allow you to efficiently manage your itinerary. This is especially useful when you have limited time for exploring different parts of Vietnam, making it easier to cover more ground without wasting precious hours on long bus or train rides.
Domestic flights in Vietnam provide a reliable and convenient way to stick to your schedule and make the most out of your travel experience.
Convenience
Flying within Vietnam offers great convenience to travelers. With domestic flights, you can easily reach your destination without long travel times or tedious journeys by road. You can save time and energy by choosing to fly, especially when visiting distant locations.
Domestic flights also provide more flexibility in terms of scheduling, allowing you to plan your trip according to your preferences and needs. Additionally, Vietnam Airlines is known for its excellent track record of on-time departures and arrivals, making it a convenient option for travelers.
Pre-booking airline tickets can also help you secure competitive rates for domestic flights in Vietnam. While they may not be as cheap as buses, domestic flights are still affordable and offer a convenient choice for tourists exploring the country.
Top Domestic Airlines in Vietnam
The top domestic airlines in Vietnam include Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Jetstar Pacific, Bamboo Airways, and Vietravel Airlines.
Vietnam Airlines
Vietnam Airlines is one of the top domestic airlines in Vietnam and has been recognized as one of the best airlines in the world. They offer a combination of tradition, culture, and high-quality customer service, ensuring a comfortable flying experience.
As the main operator for most routes within Vietnam and to international destinations, Vietnam Airlines provides a wide range of options for travelers. Additionally, they partner with other airlines to offer even more destinations and services.
While specific baggage allowances may vary, Vietnam Airlines does provide baggage allowances for domestic flights.
Vietjet Air
Vietjet Air is a popular domestic airline in Vietnam. It started operating in December 2011 and is owned by Sovico Holdings, HDBank, and other entities. Vietjet Air is known for offering budget flights within Vietnam, making it a great choice for travelers looking to save money.
They also provide priority check-in services, which can help you save time at the airport. However, it’s important to note that Vietjet Air charges a fee for checked baggage, so make sure to plan accordingly if you need to bring extra luggage.
Jetstar Pacific
Jetstar Pacific, now known as Pacific Airlines, is one of the domestic airlines in Vietnam. It was founded in 1991 and used to be called Jetstar. However, in 2020, it changed its name back to Pacific Airlines.
Although it is a smaller and less popular airline compared to others in Vietnam, it has been providing low-cost air tickets since its establishment. In fact, from 2008 to 2020, Pacific Airlines operated under the name Jetstar Pacific Airlines as part of the larger airline group called Jetstar.
It is also worth noting that Vietnam Airlines owns part of Pacific Airlines. So if you’re looking for an affordable option for domestic flights within Vietnam, consider checking out what Pacific Airlines has to offer!
Bamboo Airways
Bamboo Airways is a private airline in Vietnam, making it the first of its kind in the country. It was established in 2017 and officially launched on January 16, 2019. The airline operates flights to all 22 domestic airports within Vietnam, allowing travelers to easily explore different parts of the country.
In addition to domestic destinations, Bamboo Airways also flies to major airports in Asia, Australia, and even the United States. Notably, Bamboo Airways made history as the first Vietnamese carrier to operate a nonstop passenger flight with the U.S. as its final destination.
This opens up exciting possibilities for travelers looking to explore beyond Vietnam’s borders while enjoying reliable and comfortable air travel with Bamboo Airways.
Vietravel Airlines
Vietravel Airlines is one of the top domestic airlines in Vietnam. They aim to provide convenient domestic air transport services and support the country’s travel tourism industry.
With Vietravel Airlines, you can enjoy comfortable flights within Vietnam at affordable prices. They operate domestic routes, including popular ones like Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City.
In fact, their excellent service and commitment to promoting Vietnamese culture and people earned them the title of Asia’s leading new airline in September 2022. So if you’re looking for a reliable and enjoyable way to travel within Vietnam, consider flying with Vietravel Airlines.
Booking & Checking In for Domestic Flights
To book domestic flights in Vietnam, you have various options available such as booking directly through the airline’s website or using online travel agencies.
Options for booking flights
You can book domestic flights in Vietnam through different websites and platforms. Some options for booking flights include:
- Skyscanner
- Traveloka
- Airline websites such as Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Jetstar Pacific, and Bamboo Airways
Check-in process
To check-in for your domestic flight in Vietnam, follow these simple steps:
- Visit Vietnam Airlines’ website or download their mobile app to check – in online.
- Complete the required information, such as your booking reference number and passport details.
- Select your preferred seat from the available options.
- If you have reserved seats, you can check – in online up to 24 hours before your scheduled departure time.
- Make sure to arrive at the airport with enough time before your flight to complete any necessary procedures.
- At the airport, follow the signs or ask staff for directions to the check – in counters.
- Prepare your travel documents, including your passport and booking confirmation, for inspection.
- Provide the necessary information to the airline staff so they can assist you with the check-in process.
- Once checked in, proceed through security and immigration checks before heading to your boarding gate.
- Remember that checked baggage is not included in ticket prices for domestic flights in Vietnam, so make sure to adhere to any baggage allowance and restrictions.
Baggage allowance & restrictions
For domestic flights in Vietnam, it’s important to be aware of the baggage allowance and restrictions. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Checked baggage is not included in ticket prices and an extra fee needs to be paid for checked baggage.
- The maximum weight per piece of baggage is 32kg, and the total dimensions should not exceed 203cm, unless otherwise specified.
- Vietjet only provides water as a complimentary beverage on domestic flights in Vietnam. Meals are not included in their flights.
- Beverages containing 70% or more alcohol are prohibited on domestic flights.
- Asian Airlines charges a handling fee of KRW 10,000 for large baggage on domestic flights.
- The carry – on baggage allowance may vary depending on the airline, cabin class, and aircraft size.
Airport Information
Vietnam has several main airports that cater to domestic flights, including Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang International Airport.
These airports are well-equipped and offer a wide range of domestic flight options for travelers within Vietnam.
Main airports
The main airports you need to know about when flying within Vietnam are located in Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City. These airports are important points of entry for travelers visiting the country.
The Hanoi airport is just 40 minutes away from the center of Hanoi, making it a convenient choice. Da Nang airport offers frequent flights to various destinations within Vietnam. And finally, the Ho Chi Minh City airport, also known as Tan Son Nhat International Airport, serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.
Flight times
Flight times for domestic flights in Vietnam can differ depending on the route. For instance, flying from Hanoi to Da Nang takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, whereas a flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Duong Dong is around 20 minutes.
| Route | Flight Time |
|---|---|
| Hanoi to Da Nang | Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes |
| Ho Chi Minh City to Duong Dong | Approximately 20 minutes |
These times are, however, subject to change based on a number of factors such as weather conditions and air traffic control. Therefore, it’s always important to check with your airline for the most accurate and up-to-date flight times.
Travel Tips for Flying Within Vietnam
Choose reliable transportation options such as taxis or Grab to get to the airport on time and avoid any potential delays.
Transportation options
If you’re traveling within Vietnam, you have several transportation options to choose from:
- Domestic flights: Taking a domestic flight is the best way to travel around Vietnam. It’s safe, convenient, inexpensive, and saves time.
- Trains: Train travel is another option in Vietnam. It offers a unique experience and allows you to enjoy the scenery as you move between cities.
- Local buses: Buses are a popular choice for getting around Vietnam. They provide excellent connectivity and are relatively cheap.
- Ferries: If you’re planning to visit the islands or coastal areas in Vietnam, ferries are available for transportation.
Tips for internal flights
- Book your domestic flights in advance to secure the best prices and availability.
- Pack light and adhere to baggage restrictions to avoid extra fees.
- Arrive at the airport early to allow enough time for check-in and security procedures.
- Check the flight status before leaving for the airport to avoid any last – minute changes or delays.
- Keep important travel documents, such as your passport and tickets, easily accessible during your journey.
- Familiarize yourself with the airport layout and facilities beforehand to navigate more efficiently.
- Stay updated on any travel advisories or regulations related to flying within Vietnam.
- Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances.
- Stay hydrated during your flight by drinking plenty of water and avoiding excessive alcohol or caffeine consumption.
- Follow all safety instructions provided by the airline crew and keep your seatbelt fastened throughout the flight.
Safety precautions
To ensure a safe and enjoyable flight within Vietnam, it’s important to take some safety precautions. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots. Petty crime rates can be high in Vietnam, so always stay aware of your belongings.
- When traveling to and from the airport, use reputable transportation services or arrange for a transfer through your hotel. Avoid unmarked taxis or motorbike taxis as they may not be reliable or safe.
- It’s advisable to avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics while traveling. This can attract unwanted attention from potential thieves.
- When using ATMs or making transactions with credit cards, be vigilant and cover the keypad while entering your PIN. Skimming devices may be present, so it’s important to protect your personal information.
- If you’re targeted by thieves, it’s best not to resist and report the incident immediately to the local authorities or your tour guide if applicable.
- Due to air pollution levels in Vietnam, particularly in large cities, consider wearing a mask if necessary for your personal comfort and health.
Popular Domestic Routes & Prices
Though prices can fluctuate based upon the season and availability, here’s a look at the average cost of some of the most popular domestic flights within Vietnam:
| Route | Average Flight Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City | 70 – 100 |
| Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang | 30 – 60 |
| Da Nang to Hanoi | 30 – 60 |
| Hanoi to Phu Quoc | 40 – 80 |
| Da Nang to Nha Trang | 35 – 55 |
| Hanoi to Da Lat | 45 – 70 |
| Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc | 25 – 50 |
These prices are indicative and may change based on factors like the time of booking and airline. Utilizing low-cost carriers like Vietjet and Jetstar can usually result in savings. Pre-booking is recommended to avail competitive offers.
Traveling with Asia Highlights
Experience Vietnam like never before with Asia Highlights. Our expert planning and support ensure a seamless journey, while our itineraries offer unique and authentic experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on popular tours and get inspired for your next adventure in Vietnam.
Itineraries
Here are some itineraries to help you plan your trip to Vietnam:
- Two Weeks in Vietnam:
- Explore the bustling city of Hanoi and visit iconic landmarks like Hoan Kiem Lake and the Temple of Literature.
- Cruise through the stunning limestone formations of Halong Bay.
- Visit the enchanting ancient town of Hoi An, known for its colorful lanterns and historic architecture.
- Experience the vibrant city life of Ho Chi Minh City, including a visit to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels.
- Relax on the beautiful beaches of Phu Quoc Island.
- Four Weeks in Vietnam:
- Start your trip in Hanoi and spend time exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage.
- Take a scenic train ride to Sapa and hike through terraced rice fields.
- Head south to explore the imperial city of Hue and its historical sites.
- Discover the natural beauty of Ninh Binh, known as “Halong Bay on land.”
- Visit the Mekong Delta region and experience local floating markets and villages.
- End your trip with a few days on Phu Quoc Island, enjoying its pristine beaches.
- Two Months or More in Vietnam:
- Follow the above itineraries for two weeks and four weeks, allowing more time to immerse yourself in each destination.
- Explore off-the-beaten-path destinations like Dalat, where you can hike through pine forests and visit coffee plantations.
- Consider visiting lesser – known islands like Con Dao or Cat Ba for a secluded beach getaway.
Expert planning & support
Asia Highlights is your go-to travel agency for flying within Vietnam. They provide expert planning and support to ensure that your trip goes smoothly. Whether you need help booking domestic flights or figuring out the best routes to take, they’ve got you covered.
Their team of travel experts are knowledgeable about Vietnam and can offer personalized recommendations based on your preferences. With their flexible approach, they can integrate their advice seamlessly into your itinerary, making sure you have an unforgettable experience in this beautiful country.
Trust Asia Highlights to handle all the details so you can focus on enjoying your trip without any worries.
Authentic experiences
Traveling with Asia Highlights provides you with authentic experiences in Vietnam. As a professional travel agent specializing in holiday packages to various destinations in Southeast Asia, including Vietnam, Asia Highlights offers attractive and customizable trips.
Whether you want to explore the bustling streets of Hanoi, visit ancient temples in Hue, or cruise through the breathtaking Halong Bay, Asia Highlights will expertly plan and support your journey.
With their insider knowledge and local connections, they can ensure that you have an immersive and culturally rich experience in Vietnam. So dive into the vibrant markets, taste traditional Vietnamese cuisine, and create lasting memories on your trip with Asia Highlights.
Additional Inspiration & Ideas
Get inspired by signing up for our newsletter to receive updates on the latest travel tips, promotions, and exclusive offers. Plus, explore our popular tours that will take you to breathtaking destinations across Vietnam, providing you with expert planning and support while ensuring authentic experiences throughout your journey.
Sign up for newsletter
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You’ll also get insights into the top domestic airlines in Vietnam like Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Jetstar Pacific, Bamboo Airways, and Vietravel Airlines. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your travel experience within Vietnam by signing up for our newsletter today!
Popular tours
Vietnam is a beautiful country with many popular tours to explore. Here are some of the top tours you can consider:
- Halong Bay Cruise: Sail through the stunning limestone karsts of Halong Bay and enjoy activities like kayaking, cave exploration, and delicious seafood.
- Mekong Delta Tour: Discover the vibrant floating markets, lush rice paddies, and peaceful villages of the Mekong Delta region on a boat trip.
- Hoi An Lantern Tour: Experience the enchanting atmosphere of Hoi An at night as you stroll through its ancient streets adorned with colorful lanterns.
- Cu Chi Tunnels Tour: Learn about Vietnam’s history by exploring the intricate network of tunnels used during the Vietnam War in Cu Chi.
- Sapa Trekking Adventure: Embark on a trekking journey through the picturesque terraced rice fields and ethnic minority villages in Sapa.
- Hue Imperial City Tour: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hue and explore its ancient citadel, royal tombs, and pagodas.
Conclusion
In conclusion, flying within Vietnam offers a convenient and time-saving way to explore the country. With reliable airlines like Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air, you can enjoy comfortable flights at affordable prices.
Remember to check the baggage allowance and arrive early for your domestic flights to ensure a smooth travel experience. So hop on a plane and discover the beauty of Vietnam from above!
FAQs
1. What are the major airlines in Vietnam for domestic flights?
The major airlines in Vietnam for domestic flights include Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways.
2. Do I need a visa to fly within Vietnam?
No, if you’re traveling within Vietnam, you don’t need a visa for domestic flights.
3. Can I book my domestic flight online?
Yes, you can easily book your domestic flight online through the airline’s website or through travel booking websites.
4. Are there any baggage restrictions for domestic flights in Vietnam?
Each airline has its own specific baggage restrictions, so it’s important to check with your chosen airline before flying. Generally, there are weight and size limits for both checked-in and carry-on luggage.
5. What are some tips for a smooth domestic flight experience in Vietnam?
Some tips for a smooth domestic flight experience in Vietnam include arriving at the airport early, keeping important documents handy, following all security procedures, and being mindful of local customs and etiquette during your journey.