What to Pack for China: The Ultimate Packing List (All Seasons)
Essential Tech
- VPN installed BEFORE departure — Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp blocked
- Alipay or WeChat Pay — link foreign card. China is nearly cashless
- Universal power adapter — Type A/C/I, 220V
- Portable battery pack — phone = payments, maps, translation, photos
- Offline translation app — Google Translate with Chinese downloaded
Clothing by Season
Spring/Autumn: Lightweight layers, comfortable walking shoes (10,000-20,000 steps/day), light jacket.
Summer: Breathable fabrics, sun hat, UV umbrella, mosquito repellent, quick-dry clothes.
Winter: Thermal base layers, down jacket, warm hat, gloves, hand warmers.
Health & Comfort
- Prescription medications in original containers
- Imodium/Pepto-Bismol — street food is amazing but stomach may need time
- Hand sanitizer + wet wipes
- Tissue packs for restrooms
- Comfortable shoes — #1 tip from past travelers
DO NOT Pack
- Too many clothes — laundry is fast and cheap
- Traveler's checks — obsolete
- Heavy guidebooks — digital only
- Drones — heavily restricted
- Walkie-talkies — illegal without permit