So, you’re thinking about trading your adobo for a hot bowl of authentic pho? Flying from Manila to Ho Chi Minh City has become a bit of a travel rite of passage for many Filipinos, and most of the time, Vietjet is the airline that makes it affordable.
If this is your first time flying with Vietjet, especially on the Manila to Ho Chi Minh route, it helps to know what to expect. It can be smooth and budget-friendly if you come prepared, or stressful if you don’t. Here’s a simple, honest guide based on what you’ll actually experience.
Content
Flight Schedule
One thing you should expect right away is the schedule. Most Vietjet flights from Manila depart very late at night, usually around 12:00 AM or 1:00 AM, from NAIA Terminal 3.
The flight itself takes about three hours, and you’ll land at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City around 3:00 AM or 4:00 AM. The upside is that you arrive just as the city is starting to wake up, giving you a full first day to explore. The downside is you’ll probably arrive at your hotel way before check-in time. If you can, try to nap on the plane. A window seat helps. CHECK: Manila to Ho Chi Minh Flights by Vietjet
✈️ Flight Schedule
- Departure from Manila (NAIA)
- Most flights leave late at night, usually around 12:00 AM – 1:00 AM.
- Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat)
- You typically land around 3:00 AM – 4:00 AM (local time).
- Flight time is about 3 hours.
The 7kg Baggage Rule
This is the most important thing to remember. If you book a Vietjet Eco fare, you only get 7kg of carry-on baggage. And yes, they really check.
In Manila, your bag is often weighed at check-in and sometimes again at the boarding gate. If you’re even slightly over the limit, you could be charged a gate baggage fee that’s more expensive than your original ticket.
If you already know you’ll be shopping for Vietnamese coffee, snacks, or souvenirs, do yourself a favor and buy checked baggage online at least 24 hours before your flight. It’s much cheaper than paying at the airport and saves you a lot of stress. Manila to Ho Chi Minh Flights by Vietjet
Knowing the Terminals Helps a Lot
In Manila, Vietjet operates from NAIA Terminal 3. It’s the newest terminal, but traffic getting there can be unpredictable. Arriving three to four hours early is a smart move, especially for a midnight flight.
In Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll arrive at the international terminal, Terminal 2. After clearing immigration, booking a Grab is the easiest way to get to District 1 or other central areas. Just follow the signs and avoid random offers from drivers inside the terminal.
Don’t Forget the Philippine Travel Tax
If you’re a Filipino traveler, remember that the Philippine Travel Tax is usually not included in your Vietjet ticket. You’ll need to pay PHP 1,620 at the airport before check-in.
To save time and avoid lining up twice, you can pay this online through the TIEZA website before your flight. Just keep a copy of the receipt on your phone or printed out.
What the Flight Experience Is Like
Vietjet is a low-cost airline, so it’s best to manage your expectations. Seats are standard, legroom is basic, and there’s no built-in Wi-Fi or in-flight entertainment.
Food is not free unless you’re flying SkyBoss. If you’re hungry, it’s better to pre-order a meal using the Vietjet app. Their hot meals, like the Salted Egg Chicken, are cheaper when pre-booked and much better than buying snacks onboard.
Also, even water costs money on the plane. Fill your reusable bottle after you pass through security at NAIA to avoid paying extra in the air.
Is Flying Vietjet Worth It?
For most travelers, yes. Vietjet is well-known for its zero-peso base fare promos. If you manage to book one, you’re mostly paying for taxes and fees. Sometimes, a flight to Ho Chi Minh City ends up cheaper than a domestic trip to Boracay.
As long as you respect the baggage rules, prepare for a late-night departure, and know what fees to expect, flying Vietjet from Manila to Ho Chi Minh City is a solid and affordable way to visit one of Southeast Asia’s most exciting cities.
Vietnam is waiting, pho is calling, and now you know exactly what you’re getting into.
