To fly from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Los Angeles (LAX), you'll need to take a connecting flight, as no direct options are available. Common transit cities include Tokyo, Seoul, or Taipei, with an average total travel time of about 24 hours and 30 minutes (*), including layovers. One-way fares start from VND 31,012,000/round trip (around USD 1,197). For more tips on booking and travel, continue reading below.
1. Ho Chi Minh City to Los Angeles Flight Information
If you're planning a trip from Ho Chi Minh city to Los Angeles, here are some key details you should know about this popular international route.
Key Flight Details:
- Distance: Approximately 13,100km.
- Flight Duration (*): About 24 hours and 30 minutes.
- Flight Frequency (*): 4 flights per week.
Departure Information
|
Departure |
Ho Chi Minh City |
|
Airport Name |
Tan Son Nhat International Airport |
|
Airport Code |
SGN |
|
Terminal |
International (T2) |
|
Location |
Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam |
Transit Information
|
|
San Francisco, USA |
Taipei |
|
Airport Name |
San Francisco International Airport |
Taoyuan International Airport |
|
Airport Code |
SFO |
TPE |
|
Terminal |
International (T1) |
International (T2) |
|
Location |
San Francisco, CA 94128, USA |
Taoyuan, Taiwan |
Arrival Information
|
Arrival |
Los Angeles |
|
Airport Name |
Los Angeles International Airport |
|
Airport Code |
LAX |
|
Terminal |
International (B/6/7) |
|
Location |
1 World Way, Los Angeles, California, USA |
(*) 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.
2. How to Get to Tan Son Nhat Airport and Los Angeles City Center
Below are some common options for getting to Tan Son Nhat Airport from Ho Chi Minh City, along with ways to get to Los Angeles City Center to help you plan your journey with ease.
2.1. Getting to Tan Son Nhat Airport - Ho Chi Minh City
|
Transportation |
Instruction |
Estimated One-way Cost |
|
Taxi |
Hail a taxi at the airport or book a ride via ride-hailing apps. |
About VND 11,000/km (USD 0.42/km). |
|
Hotel Shuttle |
If you book a hotel in advance and request a pickup service, please wait for the vehicle at the front door. |
Usually included in the hotel service fee (Confirm in advance). |
|
Bus |
Take bus number 152 to the airport. |
VND 5,000+ (USD 0.19+). |
|
Motorcycle Taxi |
Suitable for short distances; you can haul a motorcycle taxi on the street. |
VND 30,000 - 100,000 (USD 1.2 - USD 3.86). |
Passengers can easily book a taxi or bus to Tan Son Nhat Airport (Source: Vietnam Airlines)
2.2. How to Get From Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
|
Transportation |
Instruction |
Estimated One-way Cost |
|
LAX FlyAway Bus |
You can catch the FlyAway bus at designated stops outside the terminals (follow the blue FlyAway signboards). |
~ VND 100,000 (USD 10). |
|
Metro Rail (Subway) |
Take the free LAX Shuttle G to Aviation/LAX Station to board the Metro C (Green) Line toward downtown Los Angeles. |
~ VND 45,000 (USD 1.75). |
|
Taxi |
You can find taxi pickup points at Terminal 1, Parking Lot 3 (between Tom Bradley and Terminal 3), Terminal 7, etc. |
VND 1,200,000 - 1,420,000 (USD 46.5 - USD 55).
|
Passengers can board the FlyAway bus at the designated pick-up locations outside the terminals (Source: Internet)
3. Flight Tips for Traveling From Ho Chi Minh City to Los Angeles
Here are some useful tips to make your journey smoother and more cost-effective:
3.1. Book Early to Get the Best Airfare
Flight prices from Ho Chi Minh City to Los Angeles range from USD 571 - USD 6,100/one-way, depending on the peaking season. However, by applying a few smart booking tips, you can optimize your budget and save more for other expenses during your trip:
- It’s recommended to book your ticket at least 2 - 3 months in advance to avoid sold-out flights and increase your chances of securing better fares.
- Opt for early-morning or late-night flights, which are typically more affordable. Traveling on weekdays instead of weekends can also help you save on airfare.
- Follow airline promotions via the Vietnam Airlines website, app, or social media channels.
- Join Lotusmiles by Vietnam Airlines to earn miles, redeem rewards, and enjoy extra baggage allowances.
Regularly visit the Vietnam Airlines Fanpage/Website/Application to promptly update special promotions (Source: Vietnam Airlines)
3.2. Choose a Comfortable Seat Class
Given the long flight duration and transit, comfort is essential. Therefore:
- Consider Premium Economy or Business Class for extra legroom and upgraded services.
- Check the aircraft type, wide-body aircraft such as Boeing 787 or Airbus A350 provide more space and better in-flight facilities.
- With advanced seat selection, passengers can choose seats that best suit their preferences – whether it’s a window seat for added privacy or an aisle seat for easier mobility. Learn more and book your preferred seat in advance here.
3.3. Be Aware of Time Zone and Weather Differences
The time difference between Vietnam and Los Angeles is 14 hours, as Vietnam operates on GMT+7 and Los Angeles on GMT-7. Passengers heading to Los Angeles might experience jet lag, so it's recommended to adjust their sleep patterns in advance and stay hydrated throughout the flight.
Additionally, the weather contrast can be quite noticeable – Ho Chi Minh City has a hot and humid tropical climate, whereas Los Angeles experiences a dry, Mediterranean climate with cooler evenings, especially from autumn to spring. Preparing appropriate clothing and staying hydrated during the flight can help ease the transition.
Passengers should take into account the significant time zone and climate differences between Ho Chi Minh City and Los Angeles (Source: Vietnam Airlines)
3.4. Make the Most of Your Transit Time
When traveling from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Los Angeles (LAX), passengers will need to take a connecting flight, as no direct routes are available. Here’s how to manage your transit effectively for a smoother travel experience:
- Double-check your boarding gate and boarding time – some gates may require a security check or a long walk.
- Use lounges for rest, food, and refreshments if accessible.
- Have light meals such as fruits, sandwiches, or yogurt to avoid bloating.
- Take a short nap to recharge before your next flight.
3.5. Understand the Arrival & Immigration Process in Los Angeles
Step 1: Immigration Check
Upon landing at LAX, proceed to Immigration. Present your passport, visa, and complete the CBP Declaration Form.
Step 2: Baggage Collection (If required)
After clearing Immigration, you will proceed to the baggage claim area to collect your checked baggage. This area is typically clearly marked with signs, and you can find the appropriate carousel based on your flight details.
Step 3: Customs and Security Checks
Proceed to Customs for inspection and be prepared for any additional security checks if required. Once you’ve completed all procedures, follow signs to exit the terminal.
After completing immigration procedures, you can travel by taxi, bus, or subway to the city center (Source: Vietnam Airlines)
4. 5 Suggested Tourist Attractions to Visit in Los Angeles
If you're visiting Los Angeles, a city where entertainment, art, and coastal beauty come together, check out the guide below for some of the most iconic attractions to explore during your trip:
|
Attraction |
Distance from Downtown LA |
Highlights |
|
Griffith Observatory |
~8 miles (13km) |
A must-visit for both astronomy lovers and photographers, offering fascinating space exhibits and one of the best panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign and LA skyline. |
|
Hollywood Walk of Fame |
~8.7 miles (14km) |
The Hollywood Walk of Fame honours individuals who have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry and pop culture. It’s not just a top-rated tourist destination but a cultural and artistic symbol of Los Angeles. |
|
Universal Studios Hollywood |
~10 miles (16km) |
A world-renowned film studio and theme park where visitors can enjoy thrilling rides, behind-the-scenes tours, and attractions based on blockbuster movies. |
|
Venice Beach |
~17.4 miles (28km) |
Famous for its bohemian spirit, Venice Beach features a lively boardwalk, street performers, quirky shops, and the iconic Muscle Beach outdoor gym. |
|
Santa Monica Pier |
~15 miles (24km) |
It features a family-friendly amusement park with the iconic Pacific Wheel, an interactive aquarium, a variety of restaurants and shops, and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. |
Universal Studios Hollywood is a famous theme park, known for its thrilling rides, live shows, and behind-the-scenes film tours (Source: Vietnam Airlines)
5. Frequently Asked Questions
5.1. How Many Flights a Week Are There from Ho Chi Minh City to Los Angeles?
There are currently 4 flights per week from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Los Angeles (LAX). The frequency may vary based on the season, demand, and any operational changes. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on flight schedules, it’s recommended to check directly with Vietnam Airlines or on their official website.
Note: Flight frequency and transit cities may vary depending on the airline and season.
5.2. When Is The Best Time to Book The Cheapest Flight Tickets?
The most affordable fares are usually available when booked 2 - 3 months in advance, especially during low travel seasons such as late spring or early autumn. Keep an eye on airline promotions, and consider traveling mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) for lower prices.
5.3. What’s The Fare for A Flight?
Flight prices typically start from 14.797.000 VND (around USD 567) for one way, depending on the booking time, transit options, airline, and travel class.
Note: Prices may fluctuate due to demand, seasonality, and promotional campaigns.
This concludes all the details you need to book your flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Los Angeles. Book your next adventure with Vietnam Airlines now to enjoy great fares and experience comfort like never before! If you have any questions, feel free to Contact us for further assistance and personalized guidance.