Chongqing Chongqing, China Travel Guide
For the spring season (March-May) and autumn (September-November), pack light jackets or sweaters for cooler days and evenings. Long-sleeved shirts, thin trousers, and dresses work for daytime. Layers help adapt to varying temperatures. Summer (June-August) calls for extremely lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Shorts, t-shirts, light dresses, and skirts are practical. A Wide-brimmed sun hat and Sunglasses offer sun protection. Quick-drying materials are good due to humidity.
Chongqing is a modern city with relaxed everyday dress codes. However, show respect when visiting religious sites (temples, monasteries). Cover your shoulders and knees for both men and women. Loose-fitting, comfortable clothes are practical for extensive walking. For hiking or city walking tours, comfortable, supportive Walking shoes or sneakers are good. Brooks Ghost 15 Running Shoes are often good for cushioning and comfort.
Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes or sneakers are a must. Your feet will appreciate them on Chongqing's hilly terrain.
If traveling in summer, consider water-resistant shoes or Sandals for comfort during potential downpours.
A pair of dressier but still comfortable shoes may be useful if you plan to dine out at nicer restaurants.
Careful organization of your documents makes for a smooth trip. Keep both physical and digital copies of all important papers. Make multiple photocopies of your passport's main page and your visa. Keep one set separate from your passport, leave one with someone at home, and keep a digital copy on your phone and in cloud storage (e.g., encrypted Dropbox folder).
China uses Type A (two flat pins), Type C (two circular pins), and Type I (three flat pins, angled) sockets. The standard voltage is 220V at 50Hz. A Universal travel adapter with USB ports is highly recommended. Ensure your mobile phone is unlocked and supports GSM 900/1800 and WCDMA/LTE bands. Purchase a local SIM card (from China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom) at the airport, which needs your passport for registration. An ESIM for China From Airalo can be activated before arrival, offering immediate connectivity.
Chongqing offers diverse photographic opportunities. A versatile camera (DSLR, mirrorless, or a high-end smartphone) works well. A portable Travel tripod helps with stunning night views. Bring Portable chargers and power banks like an Anker Power Bank (20000mAh) for long sightseeing days. A VPN is absolutely needed for reaching many Western apps and online platforms due to China's "Great Firewall." Set up and test a reputable VPN service (e.g., NordVPN, ExpressVPN) Before arriving.
Regularly create backups of pictures and important files using cloud storage (via VPN), an External hard drive, or a USB drive.
A VPN is critical for accessing many Western apps and websites due to China's "Great Firewall." Set up and test it before arrival.
Ensure your mobile phone is unlocked and supports the GSM, WCDMA, and LTE bands used inside China. Most modern smartphones work.
A well-stocked Personal first aid kit makes for comfort and readiness. Carry all prescription medications in their original packaging with the pharmacy label, along with a doctor's note or prescription. Bring familiar over-the-counter brands for common issues, as local availability or specific brands might vary.
Altitude sickness is not considered an issue in Chongqing city itself. Motion sickness remedies like Dramamine Motion Sickness Tablets are helpful for long bus or boat journeys. Mosquitoes are present, especially in warmer months; use Insect repellent, particularly one with DEET or Picaridin like Repel 100 Insect Repellent, 4oz.
For activities like Wulong Karst, sturdy Hiking shoes or comfortable trainers are good. A light Daypack for water and snacks will be handy.
For Yangtze River cruises, Binoculars are good for watching distant scenery. A good book for relaxation on deck is nice.
For most tourist activities in Chongqing, specialized gear is not typically needed beyond general travel comfort and safety items. Focus on being adaptable and comfort for the city's unique terrain.
A Travel pillow for long flights or train journeys can add to comfort. An Eye mask and earplugs help with sleep while in transit or in noisy accommodations. A Combination lock for your luggage or hostel lockers RFID blocking wallet for credit cards and passport gives peace of mind.
A reusable water bottle helps lower plastic waste. A Reusable shopping bag for markets and purchases is handy. Consider portable utensils to lower single-use plastic when eating street food. A small, Portable fan can offer relief during the hot Chongqing summer. A portable humidifier or moisturizer might be useful for dry indoor environments in winter.
Lower plastic waste by refilling your water bottle.
Bring your own bag for purchases in markets or stores.
Reduce single-use plastic when eating street food.
Support local businesses and minimize your environmental impact.
Pack light however clever. Focus on versatile, layered clothing and durable, comfortable footwear. Embrace mobile payment for practicality and consider what you truly need versus what can be easily purchased locally.
Remember a VPN for digital access and keep important documents safe. This forward-thinking approach to packing makes for a more pleasant and stress-free trip to Chongqing.
