Vietnamese convert trucks and vans into motorhomes for cross-country travel

The article lists several camping spots near Hanoi, including Suoi Hai Lake (Ba Vi), Khe Dau Waterfall (Lang Son), Ngoa Van Rocks (Quang Ninh), and Tuy Lai Lake (My Duc). Distances from Hanoi range from 45 to 120 km, with travel times from 1 to 3.5 hours. Activities include camping, trekking, boating, and fishing.

A workshop in Ho Chi Minh City completed a camping conversion of a 2011 Toyota Hiace. The two-month project involved replacing the front end with a Japanese-spec version, installing round headlights, a steel bumper, 16-inch Forged wheels with all-terrain tires, and a roof rack with awning. Inside, the rear seats were removed to fit a sofa bed, cabinet, TV, and a 220V electrical system powered by a portable battery. Experts note that such modifications require regulatory approval to avoid inspection issues and fines.

Adrienne, a Subaru Ascent owner, shared a TikTok hack: using a carabiner to trick the trunk latch into thinking it's closed while the door remains open. This prevents the car from activating interior lights and sensors, saving battery power during long camping stops. The video garnered hundreds of thousands of views, with commenters noting that carabiners are a common Subaru owner accessory.

Subaru has updated its small camper van, the Sambar Van, for 2026. The model features an improved ADAS system with stereo cameras that can detect cyclists and pedestrians. A digital instrument cluster is added for the passenger version. The base manual transmission version starts at 1,155,000 yen (about 189 million VND), an increase of 55,000 yen over the previous model.

Encore RV has introduced the ROG 12RK-FB travel trailer, addressing the common lack of a proper bathroom in compact trailers. The model features a foldable wet bath that stows away when not in use and expands into a full shower and toilet. The design targets travelers seeking mobility without sacrificing comfort.

Starting July 1, 2025, Vietnam will require all accommodation providers, including hotels, homestays, resorts, as well as any mobile sleeping units such as cruise ships, floating houses, and campervans, to register guests. The new law (No. 118/2025/QH15) mandates submission of guest details (name, date of birth, ID or passport number, purpose and duration of stay) by 11 PM on the day of arrival. Registration can be done via the VNeID app or the Ministry of Public Security's temporary residence portal.