Aussie travellers warned as storm season hits holiday hotspot
Updated . First published
It’s a travel hotspot that is surging in popularity for Aussie travellers, but Vietnam holidaymakers are being warned that storm season is well underway.
The Australian government’s Smarttraveller website issued a warning for travellers on Thursday that Vietnam’s storm season usually runs from June to November.
Storm season is impacting Vietnam. iStock
“Heavy rain, floods, landslides and typhoons can happen. These may affect flights, roads, power, transport and phone services,” the website read.
“Stay safe by checking weather updates, following local advice, and avoiding flooded or damaged areas.
“Keep your passport and important papers safe and dry. Check with your airline or tour company before travelling.”
Authorities also recommended that travellers check their travel insurance to ensure it covers bad weather.
The rainy season in some areas of Vietnam can involve high risks of typhoons, severe flooding and landslides during September, October and November in particular.
While other parts of the country can remain fairly pleasant, these hazardous weather conditions heavily impact the Central region, making it a difficult time for travellers wanting to experience all the hotspots Vietnam has to offer.
According to Booking.com’s latest search data, Vietnam is experiencing a notable surge among Australian travellers seeking winter escapes, with popular destinations across the country including Hanoi, Da Nang, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City all rising in international rankings compared to last year.
Booking.com’s 2026 Travel & Sustainability Report also suggested that 75 per cent of Aussie travellers let weather considerations dictate when they will travel.
There are dry and wet seasons across most of Vietnam. iStock
Best time to visit Vietnam
Vietnam’s seasons vary greatly by region, as four distinct seasons occur in Northern Vietnam, while Central and Southern Vietnam experience a two-season wet and dry cycle.
Northern Vietnam
Northern Vietnam is a vibrant historical region including Hanoi, Sa Pa, and Ha Long Bay, known for its dramatic mountain ranges and four-season weather.
Spring takes place from March to April, while Summer follows from May to August, with humidity rising and heavy rainfall and storms. Autumn in the North is from September to November, and this offers clear skies and crisp air, while Winter from December to February can have cold temperatures and dry, misty weather.
Spring and Autumn are some of the best seasons to enjoy Northern Vietnam’s legendary treks and landscapes.
Central Vietnam
Central Vietnam is a rich cultural region with pristine beaches and is home to Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An. This region, in particular the Central coastal locations, features a dry season that runs from February through July, which includes warm, sunny weather and low rainfall.
Alternatively, the wet season, which carries high risks of typhoons, torrential rainfall and extreme weather conditions, runs from August to January.
Central coastal locations, features a dry season that runs from February through July. Getty
Southern Vietnam
Southern Vietnam offers diverse destinations from Ho Chi Minh City to the tropical Mekong Delta and surreal surrounding islands.
This region also encompasses a dry season from December to April, and a wet season from May to November with high humidity and heavy afternoon downpours.
Discover more about Vietnam travel on nine.com.au
- This Vietnam resort is the ultimate escape from Aussie winter
- ‘The perfect family holiday spot we will keep coming back to’
- This city is the perfect introduction to a holiday in Vietnam
- ‘I used to judge people who travel this way, but after my recent trip to Vietnam everything has changed’
- ‘Height of rudeness’: Things not to do as a tourist when travelling to Vietnam
- I’ve been to Vietnam six times. This hotel transcends anything I’ve ever stayed in
- Here’s everything to know before planning a solo trip to Vietnam