VIP Sleeper Bus: Hanoi to Hoi An Vietnam Backpacker Tips

Experiencing a VIP Sleeper Bus in Vietnam

Vietnam is known for its scenic landscapes, mouthwatering cuisine, and adventurous activities. For backpackers and budget travelers, one essential Vietnamese experience is taking an overnight sleeper bus to traverse the country. Not only are sleeper buses an affordable and efficient means of transport between Vietnam's top destinations like Hanoi and Hoi An, but they allow you to save money on accommodation as you sleep while traveling. And the latest sleeper buses on offer are far from the basic local buses of old. Nowadays, Vietnam has a range of sleeper bus services to choose from, including VIP buses equipped with premium amenities for maximum comfort on your journey.

What is it Like on a VIP Sleeper Bus?

VIP sleeper buses provide upgraded amenities and comforts for travelers who don't mind spending a little extra. The term "VIP bus" is used loosely, but typically refers to the highest quality sleeper buses available for a route. These buses stick to a strict schedule, have fewer stops, newer and more spacious berths, better onboard facilities, and even entertainment like movies and wifi.

A VIP sleeper bus can have between 33 sleeper berths in three rows, up to 45 berths depending on the model. The berths typically have a thin mattress, pillow, blanket or duvet, padded privacy curtains, individual lights, charging ports, and lockable storage space. Some beds even have a mini TV screen. For such a small personal space, they can be surprisingly comfortable!

Why Take an Overnight Sleeper Bus?

Taking a 33 sleeper street bus allows you to maximize your time in Vietnam. The main advantage is avoiding paying for accommodation on nights spent traveling between destinations. An open VIP sleeper bus ticket also allows date and route flexibility if your plans change.

Overnight transport is also an iconic Vietnamese experience and a great way to meet other travelers. Backpacker tours often arrange entire VIP sleeper buses for their groups. The buses provide much needed comfort and privacy after a tiring day of activities and sightseeing. You can sleep soundly as the bus navigates through the night to your next destination.

The Journey from Hanoi to Hoi An

The route between Vietnam's capital Hanoi up north to the ancient town of Hoi An along the central coast spans over 1000km. Even in a premium VIP sleeper bus with direct route, rest stops, and no traffic, this epic journey takes around 17-18 hours.

Several reputable bus companies operate direct overnight VIP sleeper buses between Hanoi and Hoi An. Routes stop in major cities like Hue and Danang along the way. For travelers starting in Hanoi, VIP sleeper buses typically depart in the late afternoon or early evening from Hanoi's My Dinh bus station.

What to Expect at Bus Stations

At the chaotic bus stations, drivers and bus company staff yell out destinations to fill any last seats. They sometimes oversell tickets which can mean seat swapping later into the journey. Your tickets will be collected and luggage stored safely in the storage compartments. Before long, you will be settling into your berth for the long haul ride south.

Sleeper buses make occasional stops at rest areas that have basic washroom facilities and small shops selling snacks. At major bus stations along the route, staff will yell out the destination and call passengers to reboard. You can also choose to disembark for a longer break before the bus continues without you.

Arriving Well Rested

If all goes smoothly, you'll arrive refreshed in central Vietnam having slept soundly through the night. For sightseers heading onward to Hoi An, the charming UNESCO town makes for a pleasant next stop after an 18 hour bus journey. After checking into accommodation, exhausted travelers can spend the day wandering Hoi An's picturesque laneways and art galleries, before relaxing at cafes or on the nearby beaches.

Or if you still need to rest, simply extend your bus snoozing patterns into a glorious lie-in. You deserve it after successfully navigating an epic #backpackingtips trip across beautiful #Vietnam by VIP #sleeperbus!

Have you experienced Vietnam's long distance sleeper buses or cross-country transport? Share your adventures with us!

FAQs

What is a sleeper bus?

A sleeper bus allows you to sleep onboard during long journeys. They are climate controlled buses with bunk-like beds or sleeper berths for each passenger. Sleeper buses save on hotel costs for overnight trips between destinations.

How comfortable are sleeper berths on VIP buses?

VIP sleeper buses are premium buses with 33 comfortable berths, amenities like wifi, power outlets, storage, padded mattresses, privacy curtains, and even TVs and movies. While tight on space, VIP buses prioritize comfort and convenience for long overnight trips.

What is the journey time from Hanoi to Hoi An?

The route between Hanoi in northern Vietnam and the central coast town of Hoi An is over 1000km. With limited stops, VIP sleeper buses take around 17-18 hours to complete this journey.

What should I bring for an overnight bus trip?

Pack light for sleeper bus travel. Bring earplugs, eye mask, warm socks, snacks, power bank, medicine, blanket, and layerable clothing to help sleep soundly through stops and temperature changes. Store valuables safely for the long bus trip.