Traveling to cold lands, be careful not to be redundant 6
Air
Booking tickets to go out in the winter means you have to be mentally prepared for cancellations, delays, changing landing locations… You should regularly check the weather forecast and bring a few books or load them onto your iPad or iPhone.
You can also ask about aviation insurance if the travel insurance package you buy has provisions about flight delays and cancellations.
Car
Driving a car in heavy rain and especially snow requires extreme caution.
When driving, you need to wear warm clothes, socks, shoes and gloves, making sure your body is always warm to avoid stiff limbs leading to loss of control of the vehicle.
Be prepared for unexpected problems that may arise and make sure you can call for help.
Whether driving a car or motorbike, always fully charge your phone before each journey and prepare the charger that comes with the car or a backup battery/power source for your phone if riding a motorbike.
Motorbike
Driving a motorbike in winter is not a perfect idea and if you have no other choice, you should be `equipped to the teeth` to keep your body warm.
If it’s raining or snowing, choose a raincoat with separate shirt and pants to avoid strong winds, rainwater or snow accumulation that often occur when using batwings.
In Vietnam, because there is little snow, spiked wheels for winter are not popular. Even if you have a lot of experience or have never run long distances, you should not try them, especially on steep, winding mountain passes.
In Vietnam, spiked wheels are not common, so you need to be careful with slippery roads when it snows.
Skin
Keeping warm during winter travel is of utmost importance.
Tourists who ride motorbikes can choose a heater suite specifically for motorcyclists and gloves of the same set are often available at shops specializing in `toys` for motorists.
In locations with snow, rain, or hail, you should use shoes with anti-slip soles and spikes.
Living
Even though it’s cold, your body still needs to metabolize. You should drink water regularly and eat protein foods to provide more energy.
Choose a hotel with a hot tub, soak before and after washing with soap.
Always pack a phone (as mentioned above), a map of your destination, a GPS if available, and an emergency phone number.
Exclusively for backpackers going to Sapa
Be extremely careful when driving (motorbike, car) up O Quy Ho pass
The cold in Sapa comes with high humidity, which can easily make you cold, so dress as warmly as possible and avoid playing outside for too long.
Always bring a fully charged phone, walkie-talkie (if traveling in a large group), GPS (if available) to communicate and find directions in case of trouble.
You should not climb the pass in the evening or early morning.
Inform friends and relatives about the route you are taking and stops.
Many cameras and camcorders, especially digital models, do not work when too cold, keep warm and avoid moisture before and after use.
Think carefully before intending to climb mountains or trekking in the forest, entering the village at this time.
