Vietnam Souvenirs 2026: The Ultimate Guide to Practical Gifts You'll Use Every Day

Janet2

2026-02-05

When you think of "Must-Buy Souvenirs in Vietnam 2026," what comes to mind?

Is it the rich, aromatic drip coffee from a hidden alleyway cafe? or the colorful dried tropical fruits lining supermarket shelves? While these snacks offer a delightful taste of your trip, the flavor is fleeting. True travel memories are kept alive by items that integrate into your daily life. Imagine bringing the exotic atmosphere of Vietnam into your home: nourishing your hair with Vietnamese coconut oil every morning, or winding down after work with a homemade Vietnamese coffee. Every use evokes a beautiful memory of your journey.

This article isn't just a simple list of "Top 10 Snacks." It is a Vietnam shopping guide designed for insiders. We have selected practical items that allow you to feel the charm of Vietnam long after you return. From natural, gentle skincare and textured home goods to essential kitchen spices, this guide focuses on high value and unique character.

1. Natural Herbal Charm: Beauty & Skincare for Skin Renewal

Located in the tropics, Vietnam's local beauty industry relies heavily on natural herbal ingredients. These formulas are designed for hot, humid climates, featuring lightweight, non-sticky textures. Combined with friendly prices, they are a high-value choice for travelers' shopping lists.

Coconut Oil: Vietnam's "National Treasure"

Southern Vietnam is a coconut paradise, producing a wealth of coconut oil products. Coconut oil is a local beauty secret used from head to toe. In supermarkets and drugstores, you can find everything from body oil, hair oil, and lip balm to cleansing oil and handmade soaps. These products are typically natural, additive-free, and moisturizing without being heavy—perfect for dry and sensitive skin.

Recommended Brands: Cocoon (a local vegan beauty brand), BenTre Coconut (famous for coconut products).
Price: 50ml approx. 40,000 – 60,000 VND (Great value).
Usage Tip: After washing your hair, apply a small amount to the tips. It effectively moisturizes, reduces frizz, and leaves your hair shiny with a natural fragrance.

Herbal Skincare: A Savior for Tropical Climates

In Vietnamese drugstores, you will find many skincare products based on Aloe Vera and Green Tea. They are lightweight, highly hydrating, and soothe the skin in hot weather. Aloe gel is a holy grail for after-sun care, while green tea facial cleansers provide a deep clean without stripping moisture—a summer essential.

Where to Buy: Chain drugstores like Guardian and Medicare ensure product quality.
Price: Facial cleansers approx. 70,000 VND—an accessible price point.

Essential Oils & Herbal Balms: The Pocket First-Aid Kit

Peppermint oil and herbal balms (like the famous Golden Star Balm) are must-buys. Usually sold in small tins or bottles, they are easy to carry. They are effective for soothing headaches, motion sickness, staying alert, and relieving mosquito bites. Whether for travel or daily life, keeping one in your bag is always useful.

Price: 30,000 – 70,000 VND (Extremely cost-effective).

2. Home & Lifestyle: Textured Items to Brighten Daily Life

Practical home goods are not just souvenirs; they are the best way to bring Vietnamese craftsmanship and natural vibes into your home.

Bamboo Cutlery & Eco-Products: Taste the Slow Life of SE Asia

Vietnam's bamboo craftsmanship is exquisite. In Ho Chi Minh City's Ben Thanh Market or Hoi An Ancient Town, you will find bamboo chopsticks, straws, and bowls. They are lightweight, durable, and eco-friendly.

Price: A cutlery set is approx. 20,000 – 40,000 VND.
Usage Tip: Use a set of bamboo chopsticks when eating Pho at home to instantly transport yourself back to Vietnam.

Vietnamese Silk: Elegant Home Art

Hang Gai Street in Hanoi is internationally renowned for silk known for its soft luster and fine craftsmanship. A pure silk scarf or pillowcase not only elevates your home decor but also makes for an elegant and presentable gift.

Price: 150,000 – 300,000 VND.
Shopping Tip: Real silk feels smooth and has a natural sheen. If it feels rough or looks dull, it may be a synthetic blend.

Fragrance & Agarwood: Vintage Woody Scents

Agarwood (Oud) is a significant Vietnamese product with a unique, deep aroma. Beyond expensive wood blocks, you can find affordable agarwood sachets, incense cones, or essential oil candles. Placing a sachet in your wardrobe or bedroom adds a calming, vintage woody scent to your space.

Price: Sachets start from approx. 30,000 VND.
Where to Buy: Specialty stores in Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi are recommended for guaranteed quality.

3. Kitchen Essentials: Bring the Taste of Vietnam Home

For those who love to cook, the seasoning aisle in Vietnamese supermarkets is a treasure trove.

Vietnamese Fish Sauce (Nuoc Mam): The Magic of Umami

Fish sauce is the soul of Vietnamese cuisine. Whether for dipping, soups, or salads, it is indispensable. Phu Quoc Fish Sauce is particularly famous for its superb brewing process and rich flavor.

Recommended Brands: Phu Quoc, Nam Ngu (National brands).
Price: 50,000 – 80,000 VND.
Packing Tip: Fish sauce is a liquid and must be checked in. Wrap it in multiple plastic bags and seal tightly with tape to prevent leaks.

Spice Kits: Recreate Classic Flavors

Lemongrass, star anise, cinnamon, and lime leaves are the foundation of Vietnamese cooking. You can find pre-packaged spice mixes in supermarkets, making it easy to store and use. With these, you can recreate authentic Pho or curry at home.

Price: 20,000 – 40,000 VND.
Cooking Tip: Simmer the spices from the packet together with your meat to bring out rich, layered flavors in the broth.

Coffee Filters (Phin) & Instant Pho

The classic Vietnamese Phin Filter is a must-buy for coffee lovers. Paired with local coffee powder, you can brew strong drip coffee with just hot water—no electricity needed. Additionally, instant Pho or rice vermicelli is a quick, delicious solution for busy days.

Price: Filters 50,000 – 100,000 VND.

Recommended Shopping Locations

Supermarkets: Co.opmart, Big C, Vinmart (WinMart). Best for ingredients, snacks, and souvenirs. Prices are transparent (no bargaining needed).
Drugstores: Guardian, Medicare. Trusted spots for skincare and essential oils.
Markets: Ben Thanh Market (HCMC), Dong Xuan Market (Hanoi), Hoi An Ancient Town. Treasure troves for handicrafts and silk. Remember to enjoy the fun of bargaining.
Specialty Stores: The go-to places for Agarwood and high-end fragrances.

Shopping Tips

Avoid Fakes: When buying silk in markets, check the texture and sheen carefully.
Liquids: Items like fish sauce and oils must be checked in. Seal them well.
Payment: Small stalls mostly accept cash. Carry enough Vietnam Dong (VND).
Bargaining: In traditional markets, start bargaining at half the quoted price. Keep smiling and stay polite for a better chance of a deal.

Conclusion: Integrate the Beauty of Travel into Life

The value of travel lies not just in scenery and food, but in bringing the local culture back into your life. On your next trip to Vietnam, look beyond the snacks that disappear in a bite. Choose practical treasures that will accompany you daily: a smooth silk scarf, a bottle of natural coconut oil, or a classic coffee filter. Let every use be a brief journey back to Vietnam.

So, which practical Vietnam souvenir do you want to bring home the most?

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