What to pack for summer in China
China is an excellent destination to visit all year round, but the summer months are one of the best times to explore this great country. Despite the hot and humid temperatures found in places like Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu and Xi’an, July and August are still peak times to travel to China. TripSavvy describes why:
“There’s a lot to do in the summer months and some great festivals to try to catch as well. The summer months are the perfect time to tour Tibet as the weather is the mildest and most of the festivals take place in July and August. Visit beach cities like Qingdao and Xiamen to catch some rays, or head all the way down to Hainan to really cook on the white sand beaches of the island. If you’re hanging out in any of the big cities, Beijing, Chengdu, and Shanghai all have great outdoor venues and you’ll find many places to sit in the shade and drink tea – or something stronger – and relax.”
Whether you are exploring the cityscapes of China or heading to the vast nature reserves, open spaces and mountain landscapes that surround them, being prepared is the key to enjoying all this popular season has to offer. Read on to discover our definitive guide to packing for summer in China.
Keep clothing light
During the autumn and winter, layers are the key to acclimatising. But for the hot and sticky summer weather, packing a wardrobe that’s light and airy is vital for staying as comfortable as possible. As well as packing short sleeved tops and light hiking trousers, make sure your choice of footwear is super comfortable.
Be prepared for showers
Keeping clothes light and comfortable is essential to living like a local everywhere, from the big cities to the more rural villages and towns. Be prepared for some light rain. A small, portable umbrella and a light raincoat will come in handy during the summer months, as sporadic showers are common and they often start without warning.
The need for waterproof gear becomes even more apparent if a visit to Southern China is a part of your itinerary. The beautiful beaches here may provide an idyllic escape from the stiflingly hot cities, but their proximity to the Indian and Pacific oceans makes the chances of monsoon rains particularly high. Pack your swimwear and a heavy duty umbrella for extra assurance.
Stay cool and comfortable
Your choice of toiletries will make a huge difference to your comfort levels. Baby powder or talc is a great addition. Chaffing is no joke when you’ve been hiking in hot, damp conditions for hours and hours. Cooling mist sprays for the body and face also provide instant relief in such conditions. High-quality sun block, sunglasses and hats are prerequisites for travelling to China during summer. You should also carry a small towel, to help dry you off as you stay comfortable on the go.
Travelling to China at another time of the year? Read our recent article on what to pack for your China trip and be prepared whatever your chosen season.
