Ultimate China Packing List 2025: Everything You Need to Bring

Packing for China requires some unique considerations—from voltage compatibility to medicines you can't easily find. This comprehensive packing list covers everything you need for a smooth trip, whether you're visiting for a week or several months.

Use this guide as your definitive checklist. We've organized it by category and included notes on what you can easily buy in China versus what to bring from home.

Quick Checklist: Absolute Essentials

Before diving into details, here are the non-negotiables:

• Passport (valid 6+ months, with blank pages)
• Visa or visa-free transit documentation
• Phone with eSIM or China SIM plan
• Power adapter (Type A/C or I)
• VPN installed on devices
• Credit/debit card for emergencies
• Travel insurance documents
• Prescription medications (with documentation)
• Cash (some USD for emergency exchange)

Documents and Cards

Must Bring

Item	Notes
Passport	Valid 6+ months beyond travel dates, 2+ blank pages
Visa	If required for your nationality
Passport copies	2-3 printed copies, stored separately
Digital passport scan	Saved in email and cloud storage
Travel insurance	Print confirmation and policy number
Flight itinerary	Printed copies for immigration
Hotel confirmations	First night minimum, printed
Emergency contacts	Printed list with embassy numbers
Credit cards	2+ cards, Visa/Mastercard (Amex limited)
Debit card	For ATM withdrawals
Driver's license	May help with car rental (with IDP)
International Driving Permit	If planning to rent a car
Vaccination records	COVID and routine vaccines

Recommended

Item	Notes
Passport photos	4-6 extras for any visa extensions
Bank contact numbers	To call if cards blocked
Insurance emergency number	International collect call number
List of card numbers	Stored separately from cards

Technology and Electronics

Must Bring

Item	Notes
Smartphone	Unlocked, eSIM compatible if possible
Power adapter	China uses Type A (US), Type C (EU), Type I (Australia)
USB charging cables	2-3 for redundancy
Power bank	10,000-20,000mAh (must be in carry-on)
VPN	Pre-installed and tested before departure

Recommended

Item	Notes
Universal power adapter	One with multiple outlet types
Multi-port USB charger	Charge multiple devices, save outlets
Laptop	If working or need computing
Tablet/e-reader	For entertainment, books
Camera	If phone camera insufficient
Headphones	Wired backup for flights
AirPods/wireless earbuds	Daily use
Small flashlight	For exploring temples, caves

Tech Tips

Power adapters: China uses 220V/50Hz electricity. Most modern electronics (phones, laptops) handle 110-240V automatically—check your charger's label.

Socket types: China primarily uses:

• Type A (US-style 2-prong) – Most common
• Type I (Australian-style 3-prong) – Also common
• Type C (European 2-prong) – Works in most outlets

Recommendation: Bring a universal adapter or a simple US-to-China adapter (usually unnecessary as US plugs fit Chinese outlets).

Power banks: Chinese regulations limit power banks on flights:

• Under 100Wh (27,000mAh): Allowed in carry-on
• 100-160Wh: May require approval
• Over 160Wh: Not allowed
• Must be in carry-on luggage, not checked

Apps to Download Before Departure

Essential (Download Now)

App	Purpose	Note
VPN (2+ options)	Access blocked sites	Test before travel
Amap or Baidu Maps	Navigation	Download offline maps
Alipay	Mobile payment	Set up with passport
WeChat	Messaging, payment	Register before China
Didi	Taxi/ride-hailing	Link to Alipay
Google Translate	Translation	Download Chinese offline
Pleco	Dictionary	Best Chinese dictionary

Recommended

App	Purpose
Trip.com	Hotels, trains, flights
Meituan	Food delivery, restaurants
Dianping	Restaurant reviews
Amap Subway	Metro navigation
XE Currency	Exchange rates

Clothing: By Season

Spring (March-May)

Weather: Variable, 10-25°C (50-77°F)

Item	Quantity	Notes
Light jacket	1	Layering essential
Sweater/fleece	1-2	For cooler days
Long pants	2-3
Long-sleeve shirts	3-4
T-shirts	3-4
Light rain jacket	1	Compact, packable
Comfortable walking shoes	1 pair	Break in before trip
Socks	5-7 pairs
Underwear	7+

Summer (June-August)

Weather: Hot and humid, 25-38°C (77-100°F)

Item	Quantity	Notes
T-shirts/tank tops	5-7	Quick-dry preferred
Shorts	2-3
Light pants	1-2	For temples, nice restaurants
Light dress/skirt	2	Women
Swimsuit	1	For hotel pools
Sandals	1 pair
Comfortable walking shoes	1 pair	Breathable
Sunhat	1	Wide-brimmed
Light cardigan	1	For AC in buildings
Rain jacket or umbrella	1	Afternoon storms common

Autumn (September-November)

Weather: Pleasant, 10-25°C (50-77°F)

Item	Quantity	Notes
Medium jacket	1
Sweaters	2
Long pants	3
Long-sleeve shirts	3-4
T-shirts	2-3
Light scarf	1
Comfortable walking shoes	1 pair

Winter (December-February)

Weather: Cold, -10 to 10°C (14-50°F) in north; milder in south

Item	Quantity	Notes
Heavy winter coat	1	Down jacket recommended for north
Sweaters	2-3
Thermal underwear	1-2 sets	Essential for Beijing, northeastern China
Long pants	2-3
Winter hat	1
Gloves	1 pair
Scarf	1
Warm socks	5-7 pairs	Wool or thermal
Winter boots	1 pair	Waterproof for snow
Indoor slippers	1 pair	Many hotels/homes require

Universal Items (All Seasons)

Item	Notes
Comfortable walking shoes	Most important item
Sleepwear	1-2 sets
Workout clothes	If exercising
Formal outfit	1, for business or nice dinners
Belt	1
Laundry bag	For dirty clothes

Clothing Tips

Temple visits: Shoulders and knees should be covered. Bring a light shawl or pants.

Shoe notes:

• You'll walk A LOT—comfort over style
• Slip-on shoes are convenient (removing shoes often)
• Avoid brand-new shoes

Laundry: Most hotels offer laundry service. Some budget hotels have self-service machines.

Shopping: China has excellent clothing options. Consider packing light and buying there:

• Uniqlo (优衣库) everywhere
• Great quality at lower prices than home
• Larger sizes can be difficult to find (XXL+)

Toiletries and Personal Care

Bring from Home

Item	Notes
Prescription medications	With doctor's letter
Preferred skincare	Specific brands may not exist
Sunscreen	Quality varies in China
Deodorant	Stick/spray hard to find
Contact lenses	Bring enough for trip
Contact solution	Available but bring travel-size
Tampons	Limited availability in China
Specific makeup	Foundation matches
Razor	Available but bring preferred brand
Shaving cream	Available

Easy to Buy in China

Item	Notes
Shampoo/conditioner	Good selection
Body wash	Widely available
Toothpaste/toothbrush	Everywhere
Tissues	Buy immediately, essential
Wet wipes	Very common
Hand sanitizer	Widely available
Basic skincare	Many options
Sunscreen	Available but check SPF
Feminine pads	Easily found

Pro Tips

Tissues: Public restrooms often don't provide toilet paper. Carry tissues at all times.

Deodorant: China has limited deodorant options. Bring enough for your trip or buy online (JD.com, Taobao).

Tampons: Pads are common; tampons are rare. Stock up before travel or buy from international stores (City Shop, Ole).

Sunscreen: Available but read labels carefully for SPF levels. Japanese/Korean brands often best.

Medicine and Health

Bring From Home

Item	Purpose
Prescription medications	90-day supply with documentation
Prescription letter	Doctor's note for customs
Pain relievers	Ibuprofen, acetaminophen
Antidiarrheal	Imodium or equivalent
Antihistamines	Benadryl, Claritin
Stomach medicine	Pepto-Bismol, Tums
Cold medicine	DayQuil, NyQuil
Motion sickness pills	For long train/bus rides
Rehydration salts	Electrolyte packets
First aid basics	Band-aids, antibiotic ointment
Insect repellent	DEET-based
Allergy medication	If applicable

Medicine Tips

Prescription documentation:

• Carry medications in original containers
• Bring doctor's letter explaining need
• Carry copy of prescription
• Keep in carry-on luggage

Controlled substances: Some medications legal in other countries may be restricted in China. Check with your embassy if unsure.

Pharmacies in China:

• Common and well-stocked
• Staff may not speak English
• Many familiar medicines have different brand names
• Traditional Chinese medicine also available

Useful phrase:

我需要止痛药 (Wǒ xūyào zhǐtòng yào) – "I need pain medicine"

Travel Comfort Items

Flights

Item	Notes
Neck pillow	Inflatable saves space
Eye mask	Light-blocking
Earplugs	Foam or silicone
Noise-canceling headphones	Worth the investment
Compression socks	For long flights
Lip balm	Planes are dry
Moisturizer	Small tube for carry-on
Entertainment	Downloaded movies/books
Snacks	In case of food issues
Empty water bottle	Fill after security

Daily Comfort

Item	Notes
Day backpack	For daily adventures
Reusable water bottle	Refill at hotels, restaurants
Umbrella	Compact, for sun and rain
Sunglasses	Good quality
Handkerchief/bandana	Wipe sweat, cover face in dust
Plastic bags	For wet/dirty items
Luggage locks	TSA-approved
Packing cubes	Organization
Foldable shopping bag	Reduce plastic use

Photography Gear

Basic Setup

Item	Notes
Camera	Or use phone
Extra batteries	2+ for safety
Memory cards	64GB+
Camera bag	Protective, easy access

Advanced

Item	Notes
Tripod	Mini or full-size
Filters	Polarizer for skies
Lens cleaning kit	Dust can be an issue
Waterproof bag	For rain/water activities
Drone	Check regulations (restricted in many areas)

Photography Tips for China

Drone regulations: Drones are restricted near airports, government buildings, military areas, and many tourist sites. Register with authorities if bringing one.

Photo restrictions: No photography in some museum sections, temples, and government areas. Follow signs.

Best photography times: Early morning (6-8 AM) at major tourist sites avoids crowds and has best light.

What NOT to Pack

Prohibited Items

Item	Reason
Weapons of any kind	Illegal
Drugs	Severe penalties
Politically sensitive materials	May be confiscated
Religious materials (large quantities)	May be questioned
Pornography	Illegal
Fresh fruits/vegetables	Agricultural restrictions
Excessive medication	Raises questions

Leave at Home

Item	Reason
Expensive jewelry	Safety concern
Irreplaceable items	Risk of loss
Too many clothes	Buy there if needed
Books (physical)	Heavy, buy e-books
Hair dryer	Hotels provide
Towels	Hotels provide
Excessive toiletries	Buy there
Multiple pairs of shoes	2-3 max

Items Easy to Buy in China

Save luggage space—these are cheap and available everywhere:

Item	Where to Buy	Approximate Price
Umbrella	Any convenience store	¥10-30
Tissues	Every store	¥2-5
Snacks	Everywhere	¥3-20
Phone chargers	Electronics stores	¥20-50
Clothes	Uniqlo, local stores	Varies
Toiletries	Watsons, supermarkets	Similar to home
Slippers	Supermarkets	¥10-30
Day backpack	Decathlon, Taobao	¥50-200

Packing by Trip Length

Weekend/Short Trip (3-5 Days)

Carry-on only is possible:

• 3-4 tops
• 2 bottoms
• 3-4 underwear/socks
• 1 jacket
• Minimal toiletries
• 1 pair walking shoes
• Tech essentials

Standard Trip (1-2 Weeks)

One carry-on + personal item or small checked bag:

• 5-7 tops
• 3-4 bottoms
• 7 underwear/socks
• 2 jackets/layers
• Full toiletry kit
• 2 pairs shoes
• All tech

Extended Trip (3+ Weeks)

Checked bag + carry-on:

• 7-10 tops
• 4-5 bottoms
• 10+ underwear/socks (or plan to laundry)
• Full seasonal clothing
• Complete medical kit
• Multiple backup items

Tip for long trips: Pack light and buy items as needed. China has excellent shopping.

Luggage Recommendations

Carry-On Bag

Size: 22" x 14" x 9" (most airlines) Features to look for:

• 4 spinner wheels
• TSA-approved lock
• Multiple compartments
• Durable exterior

Personal Item

Options:

• Backpack (most versatile)
• Laptop bag
• Small duffel

Should contain:

• All valuables
• Electronics
• Medications
• Change of clothes
• Important documents
• Snacks

Checked Luggage

Size: 26-28" for most trips Features:

• Hard shell for protection
• TSA-approved lock
• Bright color or distinctive tag (easy to spot)

Never check:

• Electronics
• Medications
• Important documents
• Valuables

Special Circumstances

Business Travel

Add to standard list:

• Business cards (100+, China loves them)
• Formal attire
• Laptop and accessories
• Portable WiFi hotspot
• Nice pen (for signing)
• Gifts for hosts (non-food, quality items)

Traveling with Kids

Add to standard list:

• Diapers (bring enough, brands differ)
• Baby formula (bring from home)
• Favorite snacks
• Entertainment (tablets, games)
• Stroller (compact, for metro)
• Child medications
• Comfort items (stuffed animal, blanket)

Hiking/Adventure Travel

Add to standard list:

• Hiking boots (broken in)
• Trekking poles
• Headlamp
• First aid kit (expanded)
• Water purification
• Sun protection
• Quick-dry clothing
• Layers for altitude

Pre-Departure Checklist

2 Weeks Before

• Check passport validity
• Confirm visa status
• Download and test VPN
• Set up Alipay
• Register WeChat
• Notify banks of travel dates
• Arrange travel insurance
• Check medication supplies
• Research destinations

1 Week Before

• Download offline maps
• Print important documents
• Exchange some cash
• Pack medications in carry-on
• Charge all electronics
• Download entertainment
• Confirm first night hotel
• Share itinerary with family

Day Before

• Final packing check
• Weigh luggage
• Charge phone and power bank
• Check flight status
• Set out-of-office email
• Secure home
• Early bedtime

At the Airport

• Passport in easy-access pocket
• Boarding pass ready
• Liquids in clear bag
• Electronics accessible
• Power bank in carry-on
• Arrival documents ready

Printable Packing Checklist

Copy this list for easy checking:

DOCUMENTS
[ ] Passport (valid 6+ months)
[ ] Visa / transit documents
[ ] Passport copies (2-3)
[ ] Travel insurance
[ ] Flight itinerary
[ ] Hotel confirmations
[ ] Credit cards (2+)
[ ] Emergency contacts

TECHNOLOGY
[ ] Phone (unlocked)
[ ] Power adapter
[ ] USB cables
[ ] Power bank
[ ] Headphones
[ ] VPN installed
[ ] Essential apps downloaded
[ ] Offline maps downloaded

CLOTHING
[ ] Tops (5-7)
[ ] Bottoms (3-4)
[ ] Underwear (7+)
[ ] Socks (7+)
[ ] Jacket/layers (1-2)
[ ] Walking shoes (1-2 pairs)
[ ] Sleepwear
[ ] Weather-specific items

TOILETRIES
[ ] Prescription medications
[ ] Pain relievers
[ ] Stomach medicine
[ ] Deodorant
[ ] Sunscreen
[ ] Personal care items
[ ] Tissues
[ ] Hand sanitizer

TRAVEL COMFORT
[ ] Day backpack
[ ] Neck pillow
[ ] Eye mask / earplugs
[ ] Water bottle
[ ] Umbrella
[ ] Sunglasses

FINAL CHECKS
[ ] Luggage locked
[ ] Valuables in carry-on
[ ] All electronics charged
[ ] Important items accessible

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Want more detailed China travel preparation? The China Survival Kit includes app setup guides, payment configuration, phrase cards, and destination-specific tips.