Family van life: Vietnamese couple travels across 3 Southeast Asian countries with 3-year-old daughter

Minh, an avid traveler, found the perfect partner, who shares his passion for exploration.

For them, travel is not just a break from routine but it is also a lifestyle, a way to bond as a family, and a path to hands-on learning for their child.

“Our recent trip lasted 30 days, starting from Vietnam through Cambodia and then into Thailand,” Minh shared.

“We drove through the Hoa Lu border gate into Cambodia, continued to Poipet, and entered Thailand.

“Most of our routes followed the central, northeastern, and northwestern regions of Thailand, where we explored scenic roads and experienced rich local cultures.”

One of the most unforgettable moments, he said, was visiting Ban Rak Thai, a serene village nestled near the Myanmar border.

In the village, his young daughter got her first taste of rural life by picking tea leaves alongside local residents and enjoying the calm of rolling green tea hills.

“At night, my family gathered for a Chinese-style hotpot amid the mountain chill. It was an unforgettable memory," Minh recalled.

Their journey also took them along Mae Hong Son Loop, with over 4,080 curves.

“It’s one of the most breathtaking routes I’ve ever driven,” Minh said.

He marveled at the majestic landscapes and the fresh air of northern Thailand.

“I’ve always loved hitting the road, but once I had a family, I realized the journey isn’t just mine anymore. It’s a chance for us to learn, experience, and grow together,” he shared.

He believes these real-world experiences help his daughter develop flexible thinking, adaptability, and a broader worldview.

“Instead of just reading about faraway places, she gets to see them, touch them, and feel them first-hand.”

Traveling with a young child demands thorough planning, Minh said, emphasizing the importance of carefully choosing rest stops, packing appropriate food and clothing, and ensuring their daughter remains comfortable and excited about each day’s adventure.

“The most important thing is to create a joyful atmosphere so that she can see the trip as fun, not as just tagging along with her parents,” he said.

Right vehicle makes family adventures more interesting

A crucial part of their successful trips was the right vehicle.

His family previously used a pickup truck, but now they rely on a Toyota Fortuner for its space and comfort.

“I chose the Fortuner because it’s roomy, which is ideal for a child and long road trips,” Minh explained.

“The rear seats can be adjusted to carry camping gear or provide a resting space when needed.”

While pickup trucks have advantages, especially its off-road capabilities, Minh found them less ideal for family travel due to limited cabin space.

In contrast, the Fortuner offers a spacious and durable ride, though its high center of gravity can affect handling on sharp turns or mountainous roads.

More trips ahead

Minh and his family have no plans to slow down. They are already mapping out future road trips to Malaysia and Singapore, with dreams of reaching Indonesia or the Philippines.

Beyond the travel itself, Minh hopes to inspire other families with a young child.

“These journeys create priceless memories and lifelong lessons,” he said.