Layers matter most: mornings and evenings are much colder than midday, and Fansipan is about 10°C colder than town.
- Winter (Dec – Feb): thermal base layer, sweater, down or heavy windproof jacket, beanie, gloves, thick socks, scarf.
- Spring and autumn (Mar – May, Sep – Nov): T-shirt or shirt, light fleece, windbreaker; a warm layer for the evening.
- Summer (Jun – Aug): light clothing plus a light jacket and rain jacket; sudden showers are common.
- Shoes: trainers or trekking shoes with good grip; avoid slippery sandals or heels in villages and on slopes.
- Always bring: packable rain jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, a waterproof phone pouch and personal medicine.
- In villages: dress modestly.
For photos, bright colours (red, yellow, white) stand out against green or golden terraces.