Air Travel in Vietnam
Many travelers fly to Vietnam from the southeast Asian hub of Bangkok, and we've found Vietnam Airlines tickets to be among the cheapest.
A typical triangle fare going from Bangkok to Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City to Bangkok is 13,500 baht ($337.50 USD).
This ticket can be used for 30 days, and allows you to see the north and south without taking buses and trains to make the journey of approximately 1400 kilometers, as the crow flies.
If you wish to make the north-south journey by land, an "open jaws" ticket from Bangkok to Hanoi, then Ho Chi Minh City to Bangkok is roughly 8,500 baht ($212.50 USD).
Consult your airline for current fares.
Vietnam Airlines is Vietnam's main carrier, serving virtually the entire country.
In Vietnam, although you may book air tickets from any authorized travel agency, you are required to confirm 24 hours in advance.
If you change your departure time, you may be required to go to the nearest Vietnam Airlines office to do so.
Pacific Airlines also runs the Saigon-Hanoi route daily.
Buying a ticket at the Vietnam Airlines office in Saigon is efficient, now that a number system has been installed to enforce a queue.
Baggage warning: When leaving Vietnam, be sure of your baggage limitation.
Excess baggage surcharges are expensive.
Vietnam Airlines allows 7 kg carry-on, 20 kg for checked luggage, with a surcharge of $3 USD per each additional kg.
Air France allows 12 kg carry-on, 20 kg for checked luggage, with a surcharge of $12 USD per each additional kg.
