Vietnam souvenirs for kids include conical hats (Non La), To He rice dough figurines, water puppet toys, chopstick sets, lanterns, and mini Dragon Bridge models. These gifts are affordable, usually priced between 20,000 and 200,000 VND, lightweight, and easy to pack. You can find them in markets and souvenir shops across Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang.
Bringing home souvenirs for kids sounds simple, until you realize most toys either break, get boring quickly, or take up too much space in your luggage.
The good news is that many of these items are different. They are often handmade, culturally meaningful, and surprisingly fun to play with, not just display. Even better, they are affordable and easy to carry, making them perfect for family trips.
Top Vietnam Souvenirs for Kids
1. Conical Hat (Non La)
One of the most recognizable Vietnam souvenirs for kids is the conical hat, or Non La. Made from palm leaves and bamboo, each hat is handcrafted and incredibly lightweight.
A young traveler happily enjoying a traditional conical hat
Kids love wearing them, whether for photos or just for fun. The best part? They’re lightweight and can be stacked or tucked into your luggage without taking up much space.
Price: ~30,000 – 80,000 VND
2. To He – Rice Dough Figurines
To He figurines are small, colorful toys made from glutinous rice dough. They often represent animals, folk characters, or even modern cartoon figures.
Handcrafted To He figurines made with great care and detail
They’re not meant to last forever (typically 3 – 30 days), but that’s part of the charm. For many kids, watching how they’re made is just as fun as owning one.
3. Water Puppet Figurines
These wooden figurines are inspired by Vietnam’s traditional water puppet performances. If you watch a live show, picking up a puppet afterward makes the experience more memorable.
Colorful water puppets showcasing traditional Vietnamese culture
They’re sturdy enough to last and unique enough that kids won’t already have something similar at home.
4. Mini Dragon Bridge Model (Da Nang)
Mini landmark models are becoming a trend, especially in Da Nang. The Dragon Bridge version, sometimes with LED lights, is eye-catching and makes a great display piece.
A miniature Dragon Bridge model makes a wonderful souvenir
It’s one of those Vietnam souvenirs for kids that actually stays on the shelf instead of getting forgotten.
5. Ao Dai for Kids
Kid-sized Ao Dai outfits make a unique and meaningful gift. They are lightweight, colorful, and comfortable to wear, making them perfect for photos or special occasions.
You can easily find a variety of designs, from simple styles to more detailed ones with patterns or embroidery. Since it is not something kids see every day, it feels even more special and memorable.
6. Handmade Lanterns
Handmade lanterns are always a favorite among kids thanks to their bright colors and playful shapes. They come in many designs, from simple round lanterns to fun animal or star shapes that instantly catch attention.
Adorable tourists excited with colorful lanterns
The best part is that they are lightweight and easy to carry. Many can be folded down, so you can pack them neatly in your luggage without taking up much space. They also make a nice decoration back home, adding a small touch of Vietnam to a child’s room.
Safety Tips When Buying
Before buying, take a quick moment to check:
- Materials (avoid sharp edges or fragile parts)
- Paint quality (non-toxic is best)
- Small pieces (not suitable for kids under 3)
As a general rule, stick to simple, handmade items, they tend to be safer and more durable.
Where to Buy Vietnam Souvenirs for Kids
In Hanoi
- Tohe Style (Old Quarter)
- Dong Xuan Market
- 79 Souvenir Shop
In Ho Chi Minh City
- Ben Thanh Market
- Saigon Kitsch
- Golden Gift
In Da Nang
- Danang Souvenirs & Cafe
- Han Market
- Conomi Souvenirs
Quick Packing Tips
- Flatten conical hats or wear them on the plane
- Fold lanterns and wrap in soft clothes
- Avoid fragile ceramics unless well protected
- Check customs rules for food items before packing
Vietnam souvenirs for kids do not need to be expensive or complicated to be meaningful. Simple items like a conical hat, a small puppet, or a handmade toy often become the most memorable because they connect directly to the travel experience.
If you are planning a family trip, joining a Vietnam tour can make it easier to explore local markets and find authentic gifts along the way. Travel providers like Asiaplus Tour offer convenient options that help you discover these spots without the stress, while still keeping the journey enjoyable for both adults and kids.
