Weather Comparison
Vientiane vs Luang Prabang
Side-by-side weather comparison for May
May Weather: Vientiane vs Luang Prabang
| Metric | Vientiane | Luang Prabang | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 32°C (90°F) | 32°C (90°F) | Tie |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 25°C (77°F)▲ | 24°C (75°F) | Vientiane |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 23 days | 20 days▲ | Luang Prabang |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 242 mm | 142 mm▲ | Luang Prabang |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 9h/day | 10h/day▲ | Luang Prabang |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 78% | 78% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 9 | 9 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 10 km/h | 9 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.
Vientiane can feel quite hot at 32°C, so plan for heat. Luang Prabang 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
Vientiane reaches an average high of 32°C (90°F) and drops to 25°C (77°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
Vientiane receives approximately 242 mm of rainfall across 23 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.
Luang Prabang sees 142 mm over 20 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: Vientiane vs Luang Prabang
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
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: Vientiane 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 | Vientiane | Luang Prabang | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 27°C | 2d | 27°C | 3d |
| Feb | 30°C | 2d | 30°C | 2d |
| Mar | 32°C | 6d | 33°C | 6d |
| Apr | 34°C | 11d | 33°C | 12d |
| May | 32°C | 23d | 32°C | 20d |
| Jun | 30°C | 26d | 31°C | 22d |
| Jul | 30°C | 28d | 30°C | 26d |
| Aug | 30°C | 28d | 30°C | 28d |
| Sep | 30°C | 24d | 29°C | 22d |
| Oct | 29°C | 11d | 29°C | 12d |
| Nov | 29°C | 3d | 28°C | 4d |
| Dec | 27°C | 1d | 26°C | 3d |
Vientiane Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Luang Prabang Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities