The Journey Begins
Vietnam is famous for its sleeper trains, and we couldn’t resist the chance to take one for our journey south towards Hoi An. Our Vietnamese sleeper train experience promised long hours of rumbling tracks, narrow bunk beds, and plenty of stories to tell. What we didn’t expect was one of the most bizarre travel coincidences we’ve ever had.
Key Highlights & Experiences
The sleeper train itself had all the quirks you’d expect:
- Small, shared cabins with four berths.
- A constant click-clack rhythm that somehow lulled us to sleep.
- A mix of locals and travellers sharing snacks, stories, and travel tips.
We’ve travelled by overnight bus, but the train offered a slower, more scenic journey through Vietnam’s countryside. Watching rice paddies and rural towns roll by from our bunks was a memory we won’t forget.
Challenges & Mishaps
Of course, sleeper trains aren’t without their challenges:
- Tight spaces made it tricky to stretch out.
- Noise levels rose and fell throughout the night.
- Station stops often jolted us awake.
But these discomforts are all part of the adventure — the kind of travel moments that make budget backpacking both exhausting and rewarding.
The Backpack Twist
Now for the twist. Months earlier in England, we had sold one of our backpacks. We thought nothing more of it — until this train ride.
At the station, we struck up a conversation with two fellow travellers. Within minutes, we realised one of them was carrying our old backpack — the very same one we had sold months before. Thousands of miles from home, fate had brought us face-to-face with a stranger whose journey had crossed paths with ours long before Vietnam.
It was a surreal and funny moment, proving once again that the world is much smaller than we think.
Local Food & Culture on the Train
Food on the train was basic but part of the charm. Vendors walked the aisles offering hot meals, snacks, and drinks. Sharing food with new friends added to the community feel of the journey.
For backpackers, this is a great chance to:
- Sample authentic Vietnamese train food.
- Stock up on essentials before boarding.
- Bring snacks for long overnight hauls.
Budget Tips & Practical Info
If you’re planning your own Vietnamese sleeper train experience, here are some tips:
- Tickets: Book in advance via reputable apps or at the station.
- Cost: Expect to pay around £20–£30 depending on class.
- Comfort: Bring earplugs, a blanket, and plenty of water.
- Cabins: Choose soft-sleeper if possible for more comfort.
- Timing: Trains often take longer than buses but offer a safer, more relaxed ride.
Reflections on the Trip
This journey was about more than just getting to Hoi An. It reminded us why we love travel — the unpredictability, the people we meet, and the stories that stay with us long after we’ve moved on.
Coincidences like meeting the girl with our old backpack make these adventures truly unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering travelling through Vietnam, don’t miss the chance to experience an overnight train. It’s not the most luxurious journey, but it’s full of character, stories, and sometimes even once-in-a-lifetime coincidences.
👉 Watch the full video of our Vietnamese sleeper train experience here: YouTube Video
📖 Related: Tam Coc Vietnam Backpacking
💡 Planning your trip? Check out our guidebook on Amazon.
