There are a lot of things available here in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) but the cost can be high, the quality questionable and consistency of availability unknown.  Historically, items have been becoming more readily available but we still find that if you see an item today in the shop, it might not be there tomorrow.  Lengthy outages of some products can be expected, so be sure you keep a few of everything on hand.

However, listed below are the items that other expats have brought with them in their shipment and suggestions.  It is recommended that you contact us to get an update on the latest situation:

For The Home

Sheets/pillows/cases (larger size pillows and sheets (American King and California King) are not available)   Standard size are availble now.

Mattresses and box spring – recommended, but you can have custome made.

Mattress topper - if you are renting a house, mattresses in Asia tend to be harder/firmer and most people are helped by a mattress topper

Transformers (voltage here is 220)  A typical house will need 6-8 large size and various other small sizes

Yankee Candles - standard tapers and non-scented larger candles are available.

Craft Items - scrapbooking, quiliting, cross stitch, etc. - there is a good selection of fabric available, but no "batting" for quiling.

Zip Loc baggies - there is a local version, but not very reliable.

Specialty spices and non-perishable food items - there is a wide variety of spices and food items available here.  If you have a particular favorite, check with us to see if it is available.

For the Medicine Cabinet

Over the counter medications such as Tylenol, Advil, Pepto Bismol, etc.  There are however, many over the counter items available, but different brand names.  Your local doctor can also help you get these from the clinic pharmacy. 

Prescription medications

Feminine hygiene products

Face/body soap

Make up and perfumes

Hair care products - brands like Pantene and Head and Shoulders currently availble.  Higher end products available and many salons, but sometimes out of stock.

For the Pool and Garden

Gas grill, extra burners, cover, etc

Ice chest – availabe here, but on a seasonal basis and very expensive

Mosquito spray

Sun screen - make sure it's a broad spectrum and sweat/waterproof.

Sun burn relief

Pool floats

Pet stairs for pool – some pools do not have stairs

Turkey fryer, if you are so inclined

Pet Care

Pet food - currently there is Pedigree (canned and dry) and Royal Canine (dry only)

Heartworm and flea/tick preventative

Microchip pets before arrival

Please contact us for more information on pet care in HCMC

Other Items

Laundry detergent/Fabric softener - Tide is available

Wine Cooler/fridge
Personal undergarments - western sizes not available

Shoes - up to ladies 39 available in most shops

Several golf umbrellas (for rainy season)

Evening/formal Wear - great selection of tailors and fabrice.  Ballgowns, dresses, men's suits and tuxedos can be custom made for reasonable price.

Clothes in general - only very petite sizes available