Hot Air Balloon Vang Vieng Ride with Kids: Everything You Need to Know
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Let’s be honest—hot air balloon rides sound magical, but when you’re traveling with little kids? The questions come fast.
Is it safe? Will my toddler stay still? What if they cry mid-air? And is it actually worth the money?
That was us. We’d already been in Vang Vieng for two and a half weeks, and every single morning and evening, we watched those colorful balloons drift over the mountains. At first, we didn’t think we were going to do it. We were trying to be practical—it’s short, it’s not cheap, and honestly, it seemed like the kind of thing better suited for honeymooners or backpackers.
But then, as our time in this small town started winding down, I kept thinking—we might not get another chance like this. Our kids won’t be this age again. And when we started comparing the cost of balloon rides in other countries (hello, $280+ per person in Cappadocia), it clicked: this wasn’t just a bucket list moment—it was one we could actually afford to do here. So we went for it. And I’m so glad we did.
If you’re a parent wondering whether a hot air balloon ride in Vang Vieng is doable, enjoyable, or even safe with young kids—this post is for you. I’ll walk you through everything from prices and weather tips to safety, packing, and what the actual experience is like, based on our firsthand ride with a 3- and 5-year-old.
What Makes the Hot Air Balloon Vang Vieng Experience So Special for Families?
This wasn’t just another tourist thing we did, it actually felt really special. We’d been watching the balloons take off every day for over two weeks. Our kids would spot them flying and just to watch them float by. So when we finally decided to do it, it already felt familiar and exciting for them.
Seeing the balloons get set up in the field was probably the best part for the kids. They were totally into it pointing things out, asking questions, just full of excitement. Once we got into the basket and started going up, everything slowed down. It was calm and quiet. Our 3-year-old was in the child carrier so she could see, and our 5-year-old was popping her head over the edge of the basket, looking around in awe the whole time.
For us, it just felt like one of those you’ll always remember this moments. Not something we could’ve planned for months in advance just something that happened, and I’m so glad we didn’t skip it. We likely won’t be back in Vang Vieng anytime soon, and our kids won’t be this little again. It was worth it for that alone.
Is It Safe to Take Young Kids on a Hot Air Balloon in Vang Vieng?
We had a 3-year-old and a 5-year-old with us, and safety was the first thing on our minds. I’d heard from a few people that some companies have age restrictions and won’t let young kids ride, but that wasn’t the case with the company we used—Da Dar Tour. They didn’t have any issue with us bringing our kids, but it’s still something I’d check ahead of time because I know other families who weren’t allowed to book with other companies due to age.
We brought a child carrier for our 3-year-old so she could see over the top of the basket. She’s small for her age and wouldn’t have been able to see out of the basket otherwise. The staff at check-in seemed a little unsure about it at first, but the pilot looked it over the morning of our ride and was totally fine with it. The straps went around my husband and around our daughter, keeping her safely in place.
Our 5-year-old didn’t need anything as she could see over the basket without assistance. There are no seatbelts, and the company didn’t require anything special. The basket was high and solid, and we made sure to keep a hand on the kids the whole time.
I will say, this is not the kind of thing you want to do with a wiggly or impulsive toddler. If your child can’t stay still, follow directions, or would panic at a loud sound (like the fire blast when they pump hot air into the balloon), I’d maybe wait a year or two. But if you know your kid and they’re calm and curious? It’s absolutely doable.
A few extra notes:
- The basket is divided into compartments, so each family or group has their own section. That helped us feel more secure and not crammed next to strangers.
- The takeoff and landing were smooth. No big jolts, no sketchy moments.
- Our pilot had over 12 years of balloon experience and made it clear he takes safety seriously.
So is it safe for kids? For our kids, yes. We knew our kids, we came prepared, and we felt really comfortable the whole time. But I’d say use your judgment. Every kid is different, and every company has their own rules.
How Much Does a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Vang Vieng Cost for a Family?
We paid 5 million kip total for our family of four, two adults and two kids, which came out to about $232 USD. The breakdown was 1.8 million kip per adult and 700,000 kip per child, and yes, we paid for our 3-year-old even though she was in a carrier. She still took up a spot in the basket, so it made sense.
If you’re trying to compare costs globally, this is honestly a steal. In Cappadocia, for example, it’s averages $280 USD per person.
In Vang Vieng, most balloon companies seem to charge about $80–90 USD per adult, depending on whether you book through a third party in town or directly through a company. Kids are usually half-price, but it’s worth asking each place individually because policies vary.
If you’re only in Vang Vieng for a short time, just keep in mind: prices don’t fluctuate much, even if you walk around to compare. And you’ll want to book early in your stay in case there’s bad weather or cancellations.
So yeah, $232 for all four of us? Totally worth it.
When Is the Best Time to Ride a Hot Air Balloon in Vang Vieng with Kids?
We went at the end of April, right as rainy season was starting. In Laos, Songkran (Lao New Year) marks the shift, and you can expect rain almost daily after that.
Here’s our advice:
- Go in the dry season (Nov–March) for clearer skies overall.
- If you’re going during the rainy season like we did, book a morning flight. Afternoon storms are more common.
- We were picked up at 5:30 a.m. for a sunrise ride, and the morning air was cool and calm, perfect for kids.
What Should You Expect on the Day of the Ride?
Here’s how it went, step-by-step:
- Picked up at our hotel at 5:30 a.m. with a small group.
- Driven directly to the balloon launch field.
- Watched crews inflate several balloons at once—honestly, a whole show in itself!
- Our pilot checked weight distribution before we climbed in.
- Smooth, gradual takeoff into the sky.
The whole ride lasted 30 minutes. No jerks, no sudden movements, just peaceful floating above the jungle, cliffs, and rivers of Vang Vieng. After landing, we waited for the team to pack up before heading back.
What Should You Pack or Wear for a Hot Air Balloon Ride with Kids?
We dressed in pants and long sleeves, expecting it to be cold, but the heat from the balloon’s burner kept us warm. I’d say:
- Layers are best for early mornings.
- Bring water, but no need for snacks or toys. The kids were fully entertained.
- If your child is small, consider a carrier so they can see and stay secure.
Which Balloon Companies in Vang Vieng Are the Most Family-Friendly?
We booked through a third-party vendor in town, but the flight itself was operated by Da Dar Tour.
Here’s why I’d recommend them:
- Our pilot had 12 years of experience.
- They were open to the child carrier and our kids ages.
- Everything felt organized, smooth, and safe.
They weren’t overly “kid-focused” (most of the other riders were couples and backpackers), but they made it work for us.
Can You Bring a Baby or Toddler on a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Laos?
You can, but it really depends on the company you book with and what you’re comfortable with as a parent.
Would I bring a baby? Honestly, probably not. There’s just too much that’s out of your control, and you really don’t want to be holding a baby in your arms while you’re up in the air with a big flame blasting every few minutes.
But a toddler? If they’re old enough to stay still, follow simple directions, and aren’t super sensitive to noise, then yes, I’d do it again. Our 3-year-old did great. We brought a child carrier, strapped her in so she could see everything safely, and that made all the difference. I’d definitely recommend a carrier if your kid is too small to see over the basket otherwise they’ll just be staring at wicker the whole time, and that’s no fun.
There are a few things to keep in mind though:
- The burner is loud. Like, really loud, we can often hear it from the ground when its floating over. It didn’t bother our kids, but if your toddler is sensitive to noise, this could be overwhelming.
- You need to limit movement in the basket. It’s stable, but you can definitely feel it if someone shifts around too much. So if your child is the type to wiggle or try to climb, it might not be the right fit just yet.
- Not every company allows little kids. We used Da Dar Tour, and they were okay with it once they saw the carrier setup. But I’ve heard from others that some balloon companies have age minimums, so it’s important to ask ahead of time and not assume.
At the end of the day, you know your kid best. If they’re calm, curious, and able to follow your lead, it can be an amazing experience. But if you’re unsure or the thought of it stresses you out, it’s also okay to wait. The balloons will still be there another time.
What Happens After the Flight?
We landed in a wide-open parking lot with no cars around—very smooth and safe. The crew helped guide us down with ropes, and the basket tipped slightly before settling. Everyone followed the pilot’s instructions, and it all went well.
There wasn’t a big “champagne celebration” like some tours do, but the vibe was joyful. We hung around, chatted with other riders, and took photos.
Our kids were quiet during the ride, just soaking it in. But afterward? Non-stop chatter about what they saw.
Would You Recommend the Hot Air Balloon Ride in Vang Vieng for Other Families?
Yes. 100% yes.
If your child is at least 2.5 or 3 years old, can handle the early wake-up, and doesn’t scare easily, it’s such a cool experience.
Would we do it again? Absolutely, but I’m also really grateful we did it now. The kids were the perfect age, and we may never return to this small town again. It was a moment suspended in time, literally and figuratively.
