Packing List for China: What to Bring and What to Leave
China has different plug types, limited OTC medications, and strict luggage rules. Here's what belongs in your suitcase — and what you should buy there instead.
Packing List for China: What to Bring and What to Leave
Short answer: Bring a universal adapter, a VPN, comfortable walking shoes, and any prescription medications. Leave bulky toiletries, hair dryers, and guidebooks — China has better local alternatives.
Must-Bring Items
Documents
- Passport (6+ months validity)
- Printed visa confirmation
- Hotel booking confirmations (Chinese characters help at taxi stands)
- Travel insurance documents
Electronics
- Universal power adapter — China uses Type A, C, and I plugs; 220V
- Portable charger — You’ll use your phone constantly for payments and maps
- VPN — Essential for accessing Google, WhatsApp, and Western news sites
Health
- Prescription medications — Bring originals in labeled bottles; bring copies of prescriptions
- Basic first aid — Band-aids, anti-diarrheal, pain relievers
- Hand sanitizer — Useful for street food and public transport
Clothing
- Comfortable walking shoes — You’ll walk 15,000+ steps daily in cities
- Modest clothing — Shoulders and knees covered for temple visits
- Light layers — Air conditioning is aggressive indoors, even in summer
What to Buy in China
| Item | Why Buy Local |
|---|---|
| Toiletries | Cheaper; hotels provide basic amenities |
| Umbrella | Sudden rain is common; umbrellas cost 20 RMB ($3) |
| Water bottle | Bottled water is cheap everywhere |
| Phone charger | USB-C and Lightning cables sold on every corner |
| Snacks | Infinite variety at convenience stores |
What to Leave Home
- Hair dryer — Hotels have them; voltage difference may fry yours
- Guidebooks — Heavy and outdated; use apps instead
- Excessive cash — Mobile payment dominates; 500-1000 RMB backup is enough
- Formal wear — Even fine dining is casual by Western standards
Seasonal Adjustments
| Season | Extra Items |
|---|---|
| Spring (Mar-May) | Light jacket, allergy medication (pollen) |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Sunscreen, breathable fabrics, rain jacket |
| Autumn (Sep-Nov) | Layers, light scarf |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Heavy coat, thermal layers, lip balm (heating dries the air) |
The Bottom Line
Pack light, pack smart. China is a shopper’s paradise — anything you forget can likely be bought cheaply in major cities.