China Packing List: What to Bring on a 10-Day China Tour

Travel Tips • 6 min read

Pack Smart, Travel Light

Packing for China doesn't need to be complicated. This list covers everything you need for a 10-day guided tour — and just as importantly, what you can leave behind.

Essential Documents

Your valid Australian passport (must be valid for the duration of your stay), printed booking confirmation, printed or saved hotel details (your guide handles this, but backup is smart), travel insurance policy documents and emergency contact number, copies of your passport (separate from the original), and emergency contact list.

Clothing: Pack for the Season

Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November): Layers are key. Pack light jackets, long-sleeve shirts, comfortable trousers, and a light rain jacket. Mornings and evenings can be cool, daytime is pleasant. These are the best seasons for comfort.

Summer (June-August): Light, breathable clothing. Cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics. A hat and sunscreen are essential. A light rain jacket for summer downpours. Air conditioning is strong indoors — carry a light layer for restaurants and coaches.

Winter (December-February): Warm layers, a heavy jacket, thermal underwear, scarf, gloves, and a warm hat. If visiting Harbin, pack the warmest clothing you own. Insulated waterproof boots are essential for northern China in winter.

All seasons: Comfortable walking shoes are the most important item. You'll walk 5,000-10,000 steps per day. Shoes should be broken in, supportive, and suitable for uneven surfaces (the Great Wall has steep, irregular steps).

Technology Essentials

A universal power adapter (China uses Type A, C, and I plugs — a universal adapter covers everything), a portable phone charger (10,000mAh minimum — your phone is your camera, translator, and payment device), a VPN app downloaded and configured before departure (you cannot download it in China), the Alipay app downloaded and linked to your card, offline Google Maps downloaded for your tour cities, and your camera if you prefer one over your phone.

Health and Medications

Any prescription medications you take regularly (bring more than you need in case of delays), basic painkillers (paracetamol/ibuprofen), anti-diarrhoea medication (Imodium or equivalent — sensible precaution), rehydration sachets, any motion sickness medication (for coaches and river cruises), sunscreen (SPF 30+ minimum), insect repellent (summer months), and hand sanitiser.

Pack all medications in carry-on luggage, not checked bags, in case of luggage delays.

Money

A Visa or Mastercard for hotel incidentals and emergencies. Approximately 500-1,000 RMB in cash (exchange at the airport on arrival or ask your guide). Alipay or WeChat Pay set up on your phone. Most daily spending on a guided tour is personal — souvenirs, drinks, and optional snacks. Your major costs (hotels, transport, entrance fees) are already covered.

What You Don't Need to Bring

Excessive clothing — hotels have laundry services. Bulky guidebooks — your guide is your guidebook. International calling cards — WeChat and VPN-enabled apps handle communication. Expensive jewellery or watches — leave valuables at home. Large amounts of cash — mobile payment handles almost everything.

Luggage Size

One medium suitcase (checked, 20-25kg) and one day bag or small backpack (carry-on). The day bag is for water, camera, charger, and snacks during daily touring. Keep it light — you'll carry it all day.

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