Pack light — you can buy almost anything in China, usually cheaper than at home.
The essentials
- Passport, visa documents, flight/hotel printouts
- Universal adapter — China uses 220V with Type A (flat pins) and Type I (three-prong) outlets
- Medications with original packaging plus prescriptions
- Phone + power bank (note: power banks over 160Wh are banned on flights; under 100Wh is always fine)
- Comfortable walking shoes — you will walk 15,000+ steps a day
By season
| Season | North (Beijing, Xi'an) | South (Shanghai, Guangzhou) |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | Layers, windproof jacket | Light layers, umbrella |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Hot — light clothes, sunblock | Very hot + humid, quick-dry |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Best season, light jacket | Mild, the sweet spot |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Heavy coat, thermals, gloves | Cool damp — light down jacket |
Buy locally instead
Umbrellas, sunscreen (though whitening formulas are common — bring your own if picky), toiletries, SIM cards, cheap clothing, and souvenirs. Malls and convenience stores (FamilyMart, 7-Eleven, Lawson) are everywhere.
Leave room in your bag
Tea, snacks, silk, and gifts add up. A foldable duffel takes zero space and saves you from buying a suitcase in Shanghai.
Don't bring: fresh fruit/meat (customs will seize it), satellite phones (illegal without a permit), or large amounts of professional camera gear you can't explain — declare drones at customs.