Book Cheap Flights from Washington DC to Vietnam

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Although there are no direct flights from Washington DC to Vietnam, Vietnam Airlines provides seamless connections through major hubs, with one-way airfare starting from USD 804.50 (*). Depending on your transit city and final destination, total flight times vary from 33 hours 20 minutes (*). This article offers comprehensive details on fares, flight durations, distances, and connecting flights, helping you plan your trip with ease.

1. Detailed information about flights from Washington DC to Vietnam

The Washington DC metropolitan area is served by three major airports: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD).

Among them, Washington Dulles (IAD) stands out as the most important gateway for passengers from Vietnam because this is the only airport where Vietnam Airlines operates international flights from Washington DC to Vietnam.

Flight Information (Common Flights (**))

Route

Distance

Total duration (*)

Frequency (*)

Washington DC → Hanoi

(IAD → HAN)

Transit option:

  • San Francisco → Ho Chi Minh City

About 13,362km (8,302 miles).

From 37 hours 25 minutes.

7 - 27 flights/day, 4 days/week (except Monday, Tuesday and Friday).

Washington DC → Ho Chi Minh City (IAD → SGN)

Transit option:

  • San Francisco

About 14,498km (9,007 miles).

From 33 hours 20 minutes.

1 flight/day, 6 days/week (except Monday).

Washington DC → Da Nang

(IAD → DAD)

Transit option:

  • San Francisco → Ho Chi Minh City

About 13,897km (8,634 miles).

From 37 hours 10 minutes.

3 flights/day, 4 days/week (except Monday, Tuesday and Friday).

Washington DC → Nha Trang

(IAD → CXR)

Transit option:

  • San Francisco → Ho Chi Minh City

About 14,306km (8,891 miles).

From 36 hours 55 minutes.

5 flights/day, 4 days/week (except Monday, Tuesday and Friday).

(*) Flight duration and terminal may vary depending on the airline and stopover time. Ticket prices and availability are subject to change based on the booking time and travel season.

(**) Vietnam Airlines offers convenient connections from Washington DC to a wide range of destinations throughout Vietnam. Our network also includes Hai Phong, Quy Nhon, Con Dao, Dong Hoi, etc. Choose your destination to explore available flights, schedules, and fares.

2. Transportation Instructions Before and After Your Flight

For a hassle-free journey, it is helpful to plan your transportation, both to the airport before departure and from the airport after you arrive. Check out this practical guide for available travel options at the start and end of your trip.

2.1. How to get to Washington Dulles International (IAD)

Transportation

Instruction

Estimated Cost

Metro (Silver Line)

The Silver Line of the Metro system now connects directly from downtown to Dulles Airport.

From USD 3.85 - 6

Virginia Breeze Bus

An intercity bus service, picking up passengers at Union Station with a stop in Arlington to Curb 2A at the airport.

From USD 15

Taxi

The taxi service direct from the city center to Dulles Airport takes about 35 - 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

From USD 65

App Ride-Hailing

Popular ride-sharing services with similar travel times and pricing to taxis. Costs vary based on time of day and traffic conditions.

From USD 45

There are several transportation options available to reach Washington Dulles International Airport

There are several transportation options available to reach Washington Dulles International Airport (Source: Internet)

2.2. How to Travel from The Arrival Airport To The City Center

Transportation

Instructions

Estimated Cost

Airport Shuttle

Operates at most international airports. Runs every 15 - 30 minutes. Follow signs to shuttle pick-up areas near arrival exits.

VND 20,000 - VND 50,000 (USD 0.8 - 2).

Public Bus

Cost-effective but may involve longer travel times and limited space for luggage. Available in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang.

VND 5,000 - VND 35,000 (USD 0.2 - USD 1.4).

Taxi

Widely available at official taxi stands. Always confirm the use of a meter or agree on the fare in advance.

VND 40,000 - VND 500,000 (USD 1.6 - USD 20).

Hotel Pickup Service

Pre-booked in advance. A driver usually waits at the arrivals area with a sign. Often included in premium reservations.

Free - VND 350,000 (USD 0 - USD 13.5).

Private Car or Driver

Recommended for groups or traveling to rural areas. Can be arranged via accommodations or tour providers.

VND 300,000 - VND 800,000 (USD 12 - USD 32).

Notes:

Expenses can vary widely depending on how far the airport is from the city center.

  • Airports close to the city center (under 10km, ~5 - 20 min): Da Nang, Can Tho, Hai Phong, Buon Ma Thuot, etc.
  • Moderate-distance airports (10 - 20km, ~20 - 40 min): Ho Chi Minh City, Da Lat, Hue, Vinh, Phu Quoc, etc.
  • Far-distance airports (over 20km, ~35 - 70 min): Hanoi, Nha Trang (Cam Ranh), Ha Long (Van Don), Quy Nhon.

Smaller regional airports may have limited public transport access, you should plan ahead accordingly.

Passengers can also arrange airport pickup through Vietnam Airlines

Passengers can also arrange airport pickup through Vietnam Airlines (Source: Vietnam Airlines)

3. 4 Essential Tips for Flying from Washington DC to Vietnam

Below are some practical travel tips worth noting before your departure to make a smooth journey that you should know.

3.1. How to Find Cheap Flights to Vietnam from DC

Scoring a great deal on your flight from Washington DC to Vietnam is possible with some planning. Here are a few helpful strategies:

  • Book well in advance: To lock in lower fares and ensure availability, it is best to reserve your ticket 3 to 4 months ahead of your planned departure, especially if you are traveling during holidays or busy travel periods. Check out Vietnam Airlines’ Early Bird Discount offers to save more on your next trip.
  • Monitor fare discounts: Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions and limited-time offers. Vietnam Airlines often updates deals on their official website, Mobile app and Social media. Checking regularly can help you catch the best prices.
  • Sign up for the loyalty program: Enrolling in Vietnam Airlines’ Lotusmiles program can bring you valuable perks like extra baggage allowance and access to faster check-in lanes, adding both savings and convenience to your journey. Explore exclusive member deals to enjoy 5% off airfares and double your bonus or upgrade miles.

Double-check connecting flight details to ensure smooth transfers

Double-check connecting flight details to ensure smooth transfers

3.2. Baggage Rules for Connecting Flight

When flying from Washington, D.C. to Vietnam with Vietnam Airlines on a connecting flight, baggage rules typically follow the entire ticketed journey.

  • If your itinerary is booked on a single ticket with partner airlines, your checked baggage will usually be tagged through to your final destination in Vietnam.
  • If your itinerary is not booked on a single ticket (i.e., you booked separate tickets for each leg of the journey), your checked baggage will not be automatically transferred to your final destination. In this case, you need to collect your baggage at the first arrival airport (e.g., at your transit point), clear customs if required at that airport, and re-check your baggage with Vietnam Airlines for the next flight.

Baggage Information on Vietnam Airlines’ international flights differs by cabin class. You should check the airline’s official website for the most accurate and up-to-date details. For extra baggage, consider the prepaid baggage service to save and plan ahead.

3.3. Rest During Long Layovers

Many major transit airports, such as San Francisco or Ho Chi Minh offer comfortable lounges, day-use sleep boxes, and quiet rest zones for passengers. Vietnam Airlines’ Lotus Lounge also provides complimentary amenities, including luggage storage, a designated smoking area, a massage chair zone, fully equipped bathroom facilities, a diverse and attractive buffet-style dining service, workspaces, etc.

Vietnam Airlines’ Lotus Lounge also provides complimentary amenities

Vietnam Airlines’ Lotus Lounge also provides complimentary amenities

3.4. Consider Red-Eye Flights

Taking an overnight (red-eye) flight departing from Washington Dulles International Airport can help you better manage jet lag. You’ll have the chance to rest during the long-haul segment, and with many itineraries arriving in Vietnam in the evening, you can head straight to your accommodation and continue sleeping, making the time zone adjustment easier.

4. Top 10+ Destinations to Visit When Arriving in Vietnam

Whether you visit the North or the South of Vietnam, each location holds its unique charm, making your journey unforgettable. Here are some top destinations you should not miss. For more destinations and travel guides, please read more Here.

City

Highlights

Ho Chi Minh City

  • Ben Thanh Market: A bustling market known for local goods and street food.
  • Independence Palace: Historic site symbolizing Vietnam’s reunification.
  • Notre-Dame Cathedral: French colonial architecture with imported bricks.

Hanoi

  • Hoan Kiem Lake: Central lake with a legendary turtle history.
  • Old Quarter: Ancient trading streets with vibrant local culture.
  • Temple of Literature: Vietnam’s first university, featuring classic architecture.

Da Nang

  • Dragon Bridge: An Iconic fire-breathing dragon bridge.
  • Marble Mountains: Limestone hills with caves and ancient pagodas.
  • My Khe Beach: A long sandy beach ideal for swimming and relaxing.

Nha Trang

  • Po Nagar Towers: Ancient Cham temple with unique architecture.
  • Hon Chong Promontory: Natural rocky formations with stunning sea views.
  • Mun Island: A popular snorkeling spot with diverse coral reefs.

Hoan Kiem Lake offers a blend of history, culture, and cuisine

Hoan Kiem Lake offers a blend of history, culture, and cuisine (Source: Internet)

5. Frequently Asked Questions about the Flight

5.1. How Much Does It Cost to Fly from Washington DC to Vietnam?

One-way flight fares from Washington DC to Ho Chi Minh City typically range from USD 804 - 2,142, while flights to Hanoi cost between USD 917 - 2,147. Prices vary depending on the travel season. However, by applying smart booking strategies, you can better manage your budget and save more for other aspects of your trip.

5.2. How Many Flights per Week from Washington DC to Vietnam?

There are more than 20 flights per week from Washington DC to Vietnam. Passengers can connect IDA to numerous domestic destinations within Vietnam, including Hanoi, Da Nang and Nha Trang with minimal layover times.

5.3. When is The Best Time to Book A Flight from Washington DC to Vietnam?

To secure the best airfare when flying from Washington DC to Vietnam, it’s advisable to plan and book your tickets well in advance, ideally 3 to 4 months before your intended departure date. Booking early helps you avoid the surge in prices that often occurs as the flight date approaches, especially during high-demand periods such as the Tet holiday (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), summer vacations, and major Western holidays like Christmas and New Year.

Flights to Vietnam from LAX to explore the beauty of Vietnam with comfort and ease

Flights to Vietnam from LAX to explore the beauty of Vietnam with comfort and ease (Source: Vietnam Airlines)

Although flights from Washington DC to Vietnam often involve layovers, careful planning and the right tips can help make your trip comfortable and budget-friendly. Check out Vietnam Airlines for available routes, attractive deals, and a high standard of service to start your journey with ease and confidence.