Weather Comparison
Hanoi vs Luang Prabang
Side-by-side weather comparison for May
May Weather: Hanoi vs Luang Prabang
| Metric | Hanoi | Luang Prabang | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 31°C (88°F) | 32°C (90°F)▲ | Luang Prabang |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 24°C (75°F) | 24°C (75°F) | Tie |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 17 days▲ | 20 days | Hanoi |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 230 mm | 142 mm▲ | Luang Prabang |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 8h/day | 10h/day▲ | Luang Prabang |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 78% | 78% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 9 | 9 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 13 km/h | 9 km/h▲ | Luang Prabang |
Which City is Better in May?
Hanoi and Luang Prabang are closely matched in May. Neither city has a clear advantage across all metrics. Your decision should come down to personal preference, cultural interests, and travel logistics rather than weather alone.
Hanoi can feel quite hot at 31°C, so plan for heat. Luang Prabang runs hot at 32°C.
For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Hanoi is the stronger choice in May. Luang Prabang receives 2 more hours of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Temperature Comparison in May
Hanoi reaches an average high of 31°C (88°F) and drops to 24°C (75°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 7°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.
Luang Prabang averages 32°C (90°F) for the high and 24°C (75°F) for the low, with a daily range of 8°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.
Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in May.
Rainfall Comparison in May
Hanoi receives approximately 230 mm of rainfall across 17 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.
Luang Prabang sees 142 mm over 20 rain days. That makes Hanoi the drier option by 3 rain days and 88 mm of total precipitation.
Both cities share similar humidity levels at 78%.
What to Pack: Hanoi vs Luang Prabang
Packing for Hanoi in May
Highs of 31°C, lows of 24°C, 17 rain days
- ✓lightweight breathable clothing
- ✓sunscreen SPF 50+
- ✓sunglasses
- ✓a wide-brimmed hat
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
- ✓moisture-wicking fabrics
Packing for Luang Prabang in May
Highs of 32°C, lows of 24°C, 20 rain days
- ✓lightweight breathable clothing
- ✓sunscreen SPF 50+
- ✓sunglasses
- ✓a wide-brimmed hat
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
- ✓moisture-wicking fabrics
Pack for both: lightweight breathable clothing, sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, moisture-wicking fabrics. These items are useful in either destination during May.
Year-Round Comparison: Hanoi vs Luang Prabang
The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.May is highlighted for quick reference.
| Month | Hanoi | Luang Prabang | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 20°C | 8d | 27°C | 3d |
| Feb | 22°C | 8d | 30°C | 2d |
| Mar | 25°C | 11d | 33°C | 6d |
| Apr | 29°C | 11d | 33°C | 12d |
| May | 31°C | 17d | 32°C | 20d |
| Jun | 33°C | 19d | 31°C | 22d |
| Jul | 32°C | 21d | 30°C | 26d |
| Aug | 31°C | 23d | 30°C | 28d |
| Sep | 30°C | 19d | 29°C | 22d |
| Oct | 28°C | 12d | 29°C | 12d |
| Nov | 25°C | 7d | 28°C | 4d |
| Dec | 21°C | 7d | 26°C | 3d |
Hanoi Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Luang Prabang Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities