What to Pack for a Trip to Hangzhou?

Packing for a trip to Hangzhou depends on the time of year you are visiting and the activities you plan to do, but there are a few essentials that you’ll need no matter when you go. Below is a guide to help you pack based on different seasons and travel needs.

General Packing List (for any time of year)

1. Travel Essentials:

   • Passport and Visa: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date and have your Chinese visa if necessary.

   • Travel Insurance: A good idea to cover any unexpected incidents (health, cancellations, etc.).

   • Credit Cards/Local Currency: Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s also good to have Chinese yuan (RMB) on hand for small purchases or when traveling to less touristy areas. You can use Alipay or WeChat Pay with a local bank account, but many shops still accept cash.

   • Travel Adapter: China uses Type A, C, and I plugs with a 220V, 50Hz power supply. A universal adapter is helpful.

   • Phone and Charger: Your phone, along with a portable power bank (since you’ll likely be using it for navigation and translation apps).

   • Phrasebook/Translation App: While many people in Hangzhou speak English, it’s still useful to have a translation app like Google Translate or Pleco.

2. Clothing:

   • Comfortable walking shoes: Hangzhou is a city best explored on foot, especially around West Lake and Xixi Wetlands, so pack comfortable sneakers or hiking shoes.

   • Lightweight clothing for summer (June-August): Pack shorts, t-shirts, and breathable fabrics for the hot, humid months. Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.

   • Layered clothing for spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November): A mix of light jackets, sweaters, and long-sleeved shirts. Light scarves or shawls can help for cooler evenings.

   • Warm coat or jacket for winter (December-February): A down jacket or thick sweater is essential for the colder months. Make sure to pack thermal layers as well, especially if you're not used to the humidity, which can make the cold feel even colder.

   • Umbrella or rain gear: Hangzhou gets a fair amount of rain, especially in the summer and spring, so bring a compact umbrella or a light rain jacket.

   • Pajamas: Comfortable sleepwear for your hotel or accommodations.

3. Toiletries and Health Items:

   • Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, soap, etc.). Hotels typically provide these, but you may prefer your own.

   • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes for hygiene.

   • Sunscreen (especially for the summer months).

   • Prescription medications: If you take any prescription drugs, make sure to bring enough for your entire trip, as they might not be easily accessible in local pharmacies.

   • Basic health kit: Over-the-counter medications for headaches, cold, upset stomach, or allergies. You can also bring any specific items you might need like motion sickness pills if you plan to take boat rides on West Lake.

4. Tech & Gadgets:

   • Camera or smartphone: Hangzhou’s natural beauty, especially West Lake, is famous, so you’ll want a good camera or smartphone to capture your trip.

   • Portable charger/power bank: You’ll be using your phone a lot for maps, translation, and photos, so keep a power bank handy.

   • Travel apps: Download useful apps such as Google Maps, WeChat (for messaging), Alipay (for payments), and Baidu Maps for navigation.

5. Miscellaneous:

   • Backpack or daypack: A small backpack is great for carrying water, snacks, sunscreen, and anything else you need when exploring the city.

   • Reusable water bottle: Hangzhou has good tap water, and it's a good idea to bring a refillable bottle to stay hydrated.

   • Travel guidebook or maps: While you can find information online, a physical guidebook or local maps can still be helpful, especially in more remote areas.

   • Small notebook and pen: Handy for jotting down notes, addresses, or directions.

Season-Specific Packing Tips

Spring (March to May):

• Light jacket or coat: Mornings and evenings can be cool, so pack a light jacket or cardigan.

• Rain gear: Spring can be rainy, so don’t forget your umbrella or raincoat.

• Comfortable shoes: If you plan to walk around parks or temples, comfortable shoes are a must.

Summer (June to August):

• Breathable fabrics: Lightweight, breathable clothes like cotton and linen to handle the heat and humidity.

• UV protection: A sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential for protecting yourself from the sun.

• Light clothing: Short-sleeve shirts, shorts, and skirts will help keep you cool.

• Rain protection: Pack an umbrella or light rain jacket, as summer in Hangzhou is also the rainy season.

Autumn (September to November):

• Light jacket: Mornings and evenings can get chilly, so a light jacket or sweater is ideal.

• Layers: Pack long-sleeved shirts and sweaters for cooler weather, as well as lighter items for warmer afternoons.

• Comfortable shoes: For walks around the lake or in parks, comfortable walking shoes are important.

Winter (December to February):

• Warm clothing: A thick down jacket, thermal clothing, and layers to protect from the cold, damp air.

• Waterproof footwear: Waterproof boots or shoes to handle any wet conditions.

• Thermal socks, gloves, and scarves: Keep warm, especially if you're not used to the cold.

Bonus Items for Specific Activities:

• Tea-related items: If you're visiting Hangzhou for its famous tea culture, particularly to tour the Longjing Tea Village, you may want to pack extra bags for carrying tea or souvenirs back.

• Camera gear: If you plan to take professional photos of West Lake, Lingyin Temple, or the Xixi Wetlands, bring the necessary camera equipment.

• Hiking gear: If you plan to hike around the area, bring hiking shoes, a hat, and a backpack for water and snacks.

Conclusion:

Packing for Hangzhou is about being prepared for the city’s mix of beautiful landscapes, historical sites, and the possibility of humid weather in the summer and cooler temperatures in winter. By bringing layered clothing, comfortable shoes, rain gear, and tech essentials, you can enjoy your trip to Hangzhou no matter what season you visit.