Book Cheap Flights to Vietnam from The US
Booking a flight to Vietnam from the US (United States of America) typically involves at least one connecting flight, with one-way fares starting from USD 487 (*). The only direct route currently operates from San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City with 4 flights per week. For travelers from other US cities, common transit options include Tokyo, Taipei, or Hanoi, with total travel times ranging from 19 to 45 hours, including layovers. Continue reading below for comprehensive booking tips and travel information.
1. Direct Flight Information From the US to Vietnam
Currently, there is only one direct flight route from the United States to Vietnam: San Francisco (SFO) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN). This non-stop service offers the most convenient option for US travelers, with fares starting from USD 487, a flight duration of 15 hours 40 minutes, and operating 4 flights per week. Click here for full details on flight schedules, airlines, and tips for finding cheap tickets.
2. Transit Flight Information From the US to Vietnam
For travelers flying from the US, transit flights through key Asian hubs such as Tokyo, Taipei, or Seoul offer flexible options to reach Vietnam’s major cities: Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City. These are the most common international gateways for passengers departing from major U.S. cities, such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York.
The table below summarizes popular connecting routes from these three major US cities to Vietnam’s top destinations. In addition, Vietnam Airlines provides onward connections to other Vietnamese cities such as Hue, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc Island, etc. Passengers can explore more options and book flights directly through the official Vietnam Airlines website.
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Distance |
Flight Duration (*) |
Flight Frequency (*) |
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San Francisco → Hanoi (SFO → HAN) Transit options:
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From 11,778 kilometers (7,318 miles) |
From 20 hours 15 minutes to 25 hours 15 minutes. |
4 - 6 flights per day, operating 4 days per week. |
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San Francisco → Da Nang (SFO → DAD) Transit options:
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From 12,065 kilometers (7,497 miles). |
From 19 hours 30 minutes to 24 hours 50 minutes. |
6 flights per day, operating 4 days per week. |
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Los Angeles → Hanoi (LAX → HAN) Transit options:
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From 12,320 kilometers (7,655 miles). |
From 19 hours 25 minutes to 45 hours 10 minutes. |
32 - 35 flights per day, operating daily. |
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Los Angeles → Ho Chi Minh (LAX → SGN) Transit options:
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From 13,146 kilometers (8,169 miles). |
From 19 hours 22 minutes to 45 hours 35 minutes. |
25 flights per day, operating daily. |
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Los Angeles → Da Nang (LAX → DAD) Transit options:
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From 12,601 kilometers (7,830 miles). |
From 22 hours 15 minutes to 44 hours 45 minutes. |
48 flights per day, operating daily. |
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New York → Ho Chi Minh (JFK → SGN) Transit options:
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From 14,306 kilometers (8,890 miles). |
From 24 hours 30 minutes to 45 hours 35 minutes. |
3 - 8 flights per day, operating 6 days per week. |
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New York → Hanoi (JFK → HAN) Transit options:
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From 13,156 kilometers (8,175 miles). |
From 29 hours 55 minutes to 40 hours 20 minutes. |
11 - 48 flights per day, operating 4 days per week. |
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New York → Da Nang (JFK → DAD) Transit options:
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From 13,726 kilometers (8,529 miles). |
From 28 hours 20 minutes to 35 hours 25 minutes. |
7 - 22 flights per day, operating 4 days per week. |
(*) Flight frequency and duration can differ depending on the airline and the length of the layover.
(**) Fares and seat availability can change depending on when you book and the time of year you plan to travel.
3. Transportation Guide to and from Airports for US to Vietnam Flights
Planning your airport transfers in advance ensures a smooth travel experience for your journey from the US to Vietnam.
3.1. Getting to US Departure Airports
Choose airports with the most convenient flight options and frequencies for your Vietnam-bound journey.
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Airport |
Transportation - Estimated Time - Estimated Cost |
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San Francisco (San Francisco International Airport) |
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Los Angeles (Los Angeles International Airport) |
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New York City (John F. Kennedy International Airport) |
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3.2. Getting from Vietnamese Airports to City Centers
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Transportation |
Instruction |
Estimated One-way Cost |
|
Airport Bus/Shuttle |
Available at most major airports. Travel time ranges from 15 - 45 minutes. Pick-up points are usually located just outside the arrival terminals and are clearly marked. |
From VND 20,000 - VND 50,000 (Approximately USD 0.8 - USD 2). |
|
Public Bus |
Common in larger cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang. Bus stops may require a short walk. Luggage space is limited. |
From VND 5,000 - VND 35,000 (Approximately USD 0.2 - USD 1.4). |
|
Taxi |
Use official taxi stands at the airport. Always choose licensed taxis and confirm fare or meter use before departure. |
Short: VND 40,000 - VND 200,000 (Approximately USD 1.6 - USD 8). Long: VND 250,000 - VND 500,000 (Approximately USD 10 - USD 20). |
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Hotel Transfer |
Many hotels offer airport pickup services. Book in advance. A driver will usually wait with a name sign at the arrivals area. |
Free - VND 350,000 (Approximately USD 14) |
|
Private Car/Driver |
Suitable for groups or travel to remote areas. It can be arranged through hotels or travel agencies. |
VND 300,000 - VND 800,000 (Approximately USD 12 - USD 32) depending on distance. |
Notes:
Airport distance to city centers varies:
- Close proximity (under 10 km / 5 - 20 mins): Buon Ma Thuot, Pleiku, Hai Phong (Cat Bi), Tuy Hoa, Dong Hoi, Dien Bien Phu, Da Nang, Can Tho, Rach Gia, Ca Mau.
- Medium distance (10 - 20km / 20 - 40 mins): Hue (Phu Bai), Vinh, Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat), Chu Lai, Thanh Hoa, Da Lat (Lien Khuong), Con Dao, Phu Quoc.
- Farther away (20+km / 35 - 70 mins): Hanoi (Noi Bai), Nha Trang (Cam Ranh), Ha Long (Van Don), Quy Nhon (Phu Cat).
Traffic advisory: Expect longer travel times and potentially higher fares during peak hours (07:00 - 09:00 AM and 04:00 - 06:00 PM), especially in major cities.
Smaller airports may have limited transportation services and lower frequency.
All costs and durations are approximate and subject to change.
Transportation options from Vietnamese airports to city centers vary by distance and location
4. Essential Tips for US to Vietnam Flights
To ensure a smoother and more enjoyable journey from the United States to Vietnam, consider these practical pre-flight tips designed to enhance your travel experience.
4.1. Find the Best Flight Deals
To secure the best airfare for your US-to-Vietnam journey, here are proven strategies to keep in mind:
- Book early: Aim to book your flight at least 3 - 4 months (or at least 120 days) before departure. Early booking can help you save up to 15% on your fare.
- Travel during off-peak times: Flying on weekdays or outside of the holiday season typically offers better prices than peak travel periods.
- Monitor promotions: Check the Vietnam Airlines website, mobile app, or official social media channels for limited-time offers. Vietnam Airlines regularly updates discounts and offers, making it easier to find great deals.
- Join a loyalty program: Enroll in the Lotusmiles Program to earn miles, unlock member-only perks, and enjoy additional benefits like extra baggage allowance.
- Explore payment options: Vietnam Airlines often offers discounts for early payments or via certain payment methods. Look out for promotional campaigns to save even more on your flight ticket to Vietnam from the USA.
It's recommended to reserve your ticket at least 3 - 4 weeks in advance on the official Vietnam Airlines channels
4.2. Verify Flight Information and Transit Points
Flight Information: If you're taking a direct flight from the USA to Vietnam (such as San Francisco to Tan Son Nhat), check flight details on the airline's mobile application. These flights typically last 14 to 16 hours.
Transit: If your flight includes a stopover (for example, from San Francisco to Hanoi with a transit at Tan Son Nhat), ensure you understand the transit time, connecting gate, and entry procedures at the transit point. You will need to collect your baggage at the transit point and check in again for the domestic flight.
Transit time: Choose reasonable transit times of 2 to 3 hours at major airports to avoid missing connecting flights.
Double-check your flight information and transit points before boarding to avoid unnecessary errors (Source: Internet)
4.3. Adapting to the time zone difference - weather of the two countries
Flying from the US to Vietnam means adjusting to an 11 - 14 hour time difference. To reduce jet lag, start shifting your sleep schedule 3 - 4 days before departure, go to bed, and wake up earlier each day.
- Set your watch to Vietnam time during the flight to help adjust your internal clock.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Avoid alcohol, as it can cause dehydration.
- Wear comfortable, breathable clothing for the long flight.
- Bring a light jacket in case the cabin temperature is cool.
- Prepare for Vietnam’s typically warm and humid weather upon arrival.
Stay hydrated, choose appropriate clothing for the long journey, and follow healthy practices while onboard
4.4. Learn about Immigration Procedures at Vietnamese Airports in Advance
Before flying to Vietnam, make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months and check if you need a visa or a visa approval letter. In general, arrive at least 3 hours before departure to allow time for check-in, TSA screening, and exit procedures. Have your passport, visa documents, and flight ticket ready.
Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) or other major Vietnamese airports, head to the immigration counters. If you hold a valid visa or qualify for visa exemption, simply present your documents and complete any required health declarations. For those using a visa-on-arrival, follow the airport signs to the Visa on Arrival (VOA) counter before proceeding to immigration.
Learn about immigration procedures at Vietnamese airports in advance
5. Top Must-Visit Destinations in Vietnam
After your long journey from the United States, Vietnam offers incredible destinations that showcase the country's rich culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities. Here are the essential places to add to your itinerary:
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City |
Destinations |
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Hanoi |
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Ho Chi Minh City |
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Da Nang |
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Hoi An |
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Halong Bay |
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Phu Quoc |
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For a deeper dive into Vietnam's tourist destinations, travel tips ,and local experiences, be sure to check out the full Travel guide by Vietnam Airlines.
The Golden Bridge in Da Nang, supported by giant stone hands, offers stunning views and a unique, unforgettable experience
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Below are common questions that passengers often have when booking tickets to Vietnam from US and preparing for flights from the US to Vietnam:
6.1. How far in advance should I book my flight to Vietnam from the US?
For the best prices and availability, book your US to Vietnam flight at least 3 - 4 months in advance. Booking early can help you save up to 15% compared to last-minute purchases. During peak travel seasons (summer holidays, Tet holiday), consider booking even earlier.
6.2. How long is the flight to Vietnam from the US?
Flight duration depends on your departure city and chosen route. The direct San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City flight takes approximately 15 hours and 40 minutes. Connecting flights from other US cities typically range from 19 to 45 hours of total travel time, including layovers.
6.3. How frequent are flights from the US to Vietnam?
Flight frequency varies by route and season. The direct San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City route operates 4 times per week. Connecting flights from major US cities like Los Angeles and New York offer multiple daily options through various Asian transit hubs. Check the Vietnam Airlines website for current schedules and availability.
That’s everything you need to know for a smooth flight to Vietnam from the US. Ready to explore? Fly with Vietnam Airlines to enjoy attractive fares, reliable service, and world-class comfort. Have questions or need personalized assistance? Our team is here, don't hesitate to get in touch!