Weather Comparison
Luang Prabang vs Vientiane
Side-by-side weather comparison for May
May Weather: Luang Prabang vs Vientiane
| Metric | Luang Prabang | Vientiane | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 32°C (90°F) | 32°C (90°F) | Tie |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 24°C (75°F) | 25°C (77°F)▲ | Vientiane |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 20 days▲ | 23 days | Luang Prabang |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 142 mm▲ | 242 mm | Luang Prabang |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 10h/day▲ | 9h/day | Luang Prabang |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 78% | 78% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 9 | 9 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 9 km/h▲ | 10 km/h | Luang Prabang |
Which City is Better in May?
Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Luang Prabang edges ahead as the better destination in May. Luang Prabang offers 10 hours of daily sunshine with only 20 rain days, while Vientiane sees 9 sunshine hours and 23 rain days.
Luang Prabang can feel quite hot at 32°C, so plan for heat. Vientiane runs hot at 32°C.
For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Luang Prabang is the stronger choice in May. Luang Prabang receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Temperature Comparison in May
Luang Prabang reaches an average high of 32°C (90°F) and drops to 24°C (75°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 8°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.
Vientiane averages 32°C (90°F) for the high and 25°C (77°F) for the low, with a daily range of 7°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
Luang Prabang receives approximately 142 mm of rainfall across 20 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.
Vientiane sees 242 mm over 23 rain days. That makes Luang Prabang the drier option by 3 rain days and 100 mm of total precipitation.
Both cities share similar humidity levels at 78%.
What to Pack: Luang Prabang vs Vientiane
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
Packing for Vientiane in May
Highs of 32°C, lows of 25°C, 23 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: Luang Prabang vs Vientiane
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 | Luang Prabang | Vientiane | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 27°C | 3d | 27°C | 2d |
| Feb | 30°C | 2d | 30°C | 2d |
| Mar | 33°C | 6d | 32°C | 6d |
| Apr | 33°C | 12d | 34°C | 11d |
| May | 32°C | 20d | 32°C | 23d |
| Jun | 31°C | 22d | 30°C | 26d |
| Jul | 30°C | 26d | 30°C | 28d |
| Aug | 30°C | 28d | 30°C | 28d |
| Sep | 29°C | 22d | 30°C | 24d |
| Oct | 29°C | 12d | 29°C | 11d |
| Nov | 28°C | 4d | 29°C | 3d |
| Dec | 26°C | 3d | 27°C | 1d |
Luang Prabang Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Vientiane Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities