Knowing what to bring to China can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re visiting for business, study, or leisure, packing the right items ensures you’re prepared for the country’s unique culture, climate, and travel needs.

From essential documents to clothing and tech gadgets, this checklist covers everything you need to have on hand. Being well-prepared helps you avoid common travel hassles and focus on experiencing all that China has to offer.

Read on to discover the must-have items for your journey and make your trip stress-free and comfortable.

Heading to China for work? Get essential info on the China Business Travel Visa (M Visa).

What to Bring to China: Travel Documents and Essentials

Getting your documents sorted is the most important part of your China travel checklist. You need the right ID, permits, and backup copies to get in and handle any emergencies.

Passport, Visa, and Travel Permits

Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months from your travel date. China checks this at entry, and airlines check before you board.

Most travelers need a tourist visa before they arrive. Apply at a Chinese consulate or embassy in your home country about 4-6 weeks before your trip.

Required visa documents:

• Completed application form
• Passport photos
• Flight bookings
• Hotel reservations
• Bank statements

Some people can visit China without a visa for short stays. Check if your country has a visa-free agreement with China for tourism.

Travel insurance is highly recommended, and sometimes you need it for your visa application. Get coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

If you're planning to visit Tibet, you'll need special permits in addition to your regular visa. Only licensed tour operators can arrange this, since individual travel to Tibet isn't allowed.

Important Copies and Emergency Contacts

Make copies of all your important documents before you go. Keep digital copies on your phone and stash paper copies somewhere separate from the originals.

Documents to copy:

• Passport photo page
• Visa page
• Flight tickets
• Hotel bookings
• Travel insurance policy
• Prescription medications

Email copies to yourself or store them in cloud storage you can reach from China. If you lose your documents, this can really help.

Write down emergency contact numbers and keep them handy. Include your country's embassy in China, your bank's international number, and your travel insurance company.

If you take prescription meds, save your doctor's contact info. Bring a note from your doctor explaining your medications, just in case customs asks.

Clothing and Personal Items

Packing the right clothes for China's many climates and having your personal care items will make your trip a lot more comfortable. Cultural norms also matter when you pick what to wear.

Weather-Appropriate Clothing

Check the weather for your destination before you pack. China has four seasons and the temperature can change a lot.

Spring (March-May): Bring jackets, long-sleeve shirts, and comfy shoes. It usually stays between 50-72°F.

Summer (June-August): Pack t-shirts, shorts, sandals, and a hat. Rain gear is a must since summer brings heavy showers.

Fall (September-November): Bring light sweaters, jackets, and something for rain. Temps are like spring, 50-72°F.

Winter (December-February): You'll want thick coats, warm sweaters, and lined jackets. Northern China gets really cold, so pack gloves, hats, and warm boots.

Pick clothes that dry fast and skip cotton if you can. Synthetics are lighter and dry quicker.

Pack one nice outfit for formal occasions. Otherwise, stick with casual and comfy clothes.

Avoid military-style clothing to prevent issues. Slip-on shoes are handy since you'll take them off at temples and some restaurants.

Toiletries and Health Supplies

Bring your regular toiletries in travel sizes. Hotels have basics, but you might want your own stuff.

Pack these essentials:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and soap
• Deodorant
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Personal hygiene items

Medications: Bring all prescription meds in their original bottles. Pack a little extra in case of delays.

Include a basic first-aid kit with:

• Pain relievers like aspirin
• Anti-diarrhea medicine
• Antihistamines for allergies
• Band-aids and antiseptic

Write down your medical history, blood type, and allergies. Keep this info in your first-aid kit.

Don't overpack medicines—Chinese customs might question large amounts.

Bring your medical insurance card and any health certificates you might need.

Curious about visa-free options? Discover the latest updates on China Visa-Free Travel.  

Tech, Money, and Miscellaneous

China runs on digital payments, and you'll need the right electronics and adapters to stay connected. A few comfort items can make travel way easier in this fast-changing country.

Electronics and Adapters

Your electronics need the right power setup in China. The country uses 220V electricity and Type A, C, and I outlets.

Essential Power Items:

• Universal travel adapter with Type A, C, and I plugs
• Portable power bank (under 20,000mAh for flights)
• USB charging cables for all devices

Most modern phones and laptops handle 220V automatically. Check your device's adapter for "110-240V" to be sure.

Install a VPN before you get to China. A lot of popular sites—Google, Facebook, YouTube—are blocked. ExpressVPN usually works well.

Recommended Electronics:

• Unlocked smartphone for local SIM cards
• Backup phone charger
• Wired headphones (for airplane entertainment)
• Camera with extra memory cards

Download offline maps and translation apps before you go. Internet can be spotty in remote places.

Currency, Payment Methods, and Apps

China is mostly cashless, thanks to mobile payment apps. Still, cash is handy for small vendors and emergencies.

Payment Methods:

• WeChat Pay - Most widely accepted mobile payment
• Alipay - Also very popular
• Cash - Chinese Yuan (RMB) for backup
• Bank cards - International cards work at big hotels and malls

WeChat is huge for both social and payments in China. Download it before you arrive and set up your account. Many places only take WeChat Pay or Alipay.

Bring enough cash for a couple days. ATMs are common in cities and usually have good rates. Split your cash between bags for safety.

Money Tips:

• Tell your bank about your China travel dates
• Bring a backup debit card
• Keep receipts for currency exchange
• Small bills work best for street vendors

Useful Extras for Comfort and Convenience

These aren't essential, but they make travel easier and more comfortable.

Comfort Items:

• Travel pillow for long flights or train rides
• Portable tissues (public restrooms often lack toilet paper)
• Hand sanitizer for quick cleaning
• Reusable water bottle with filter

Helpful Extras:

• Chinese phrasebook or translation app
• Business cards with your hotel address in Chinese
• Snacks from home for familiar tastes
• Travel insurance documents

Pack wet wipes for cleaning hands and surfaces. Public restrooms may not have soap.

A small flashlight is handy for dim areas. Some historic sites and smaller hotels don't have great lighting.

Document Copies:

• Passport and visa photocopies
• Emergency contact information
• Hotel confirmations in Chinese and English
• Travel insurance policy numbers

Store digital copies of important docs in the cloud. Keep paper copies separate from your originals.

Planning to bring your furry friend? Learn more about Traveling with Pets to China.  

Conclusion: What To Bring To China

Knowing what to bring to China can make your trip more comfortable and hassle-free. From essential documents to thoughtful gifts and tech tips, being prepared helps you focus on enjoying your experience.  

Packing smartly also means respecting local customs and staying connected safely. With the right items, you’ll navigate China’s unique environment with ease.  

For more insights on China travel and migration policies, check out our article on US-China Dual Citizenship.

Frequently Asked Questions: What To Bring To China

What do I need when entering China?

You need a passport valid for at least six months and usually a tourist visa. Bring visa documents, hotel reservations, and proof of return travel. Keep printed and digital copies of your passport and visa handy.

What are good gifts to bring to China?

Small, simple gifts like local chocolates, teas, or snacks are appreciated. Avoid expensive or political items. Books about your hometown or local specialties like coffee or honey are great choices.

How to protect your phone in China?

Install a VPN before arrival since it can’t be downloaded inside China. Consider an unlocked phone with a local SIM for cheaper data. Download offline maps and use a case plus a portable charger for protection.

Is China expensive to visit?

Costs vary by city and travel style; big cities are pricier. Budget travelers can manage on $30-50 a day; mid-range around $80-120. Transportation and food are affordable, with street food and subways costing very little.

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