MileHacker Logo
What to Pack for Fuzhou

What to Pack for Fuzhou

Fuzhou Fujian, China Travel Guide

Climate-Appropriate Clothing

Fuzhou's distinct seasons mean your wardrobe needs to get used to your visit time.

Seasonal Recommendations

Cultural & Activity Attire

Fuzhou is a modern city with relaxed dress codes. However, respect for cultural sites is important.

Specific Dress Codes

  • Religious Sites: Dress modestly; cover shoulders and knees.
  • Hiking: Comfortable walking shoes, breathable clothing for Mount Gushan.
  • Swimming: Pack a Swimsuit for pools or nearby beaches like Pingtan Island.

Footwear Recommendations

City Exploration

Comfortable walking shoes are absolutely necessary for city walks and historical sites.

Daily Comfort

Rainy Season

Waterproof shoes or Sandals are useful for summer due to frequent rain.

Damp Weather

Hiking & Outdoors

Hiking shoes provide support for mountain trails and parks.

Trail Ready

Essential Documents

Critical Travel Documents

Carefully manage your physical and digital documents for a seamless journey.

  • Carry your physical passport with a valid Chinese visa.
  • Keep photocopies (physical and digital) of your passport and visa; store them separately.
  • Print a copy of your travel insurance policy details, including emergency contacts.
  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not recognized in mainland China; driving requires someone From china permit.
  • Carry vaccination records and a doctor's letter for prescription medications.
  • Have printed and digital copies of your flight, hotel, train tickets, plus tour arrangements.
  • List local emergency numbers and your embassy/consulate detailss; keep this information accessible.
  • An International Student Identity Card (ISIC) may offer discounts, but Chinese IDs often apply for local discounts.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Your electronic devices enhance your travel experience, but specific Chinese considerations apply.

Essentials

  • China uses 220V, 50Hz. Pack a Power adapter compatible with Type A, C, and I sockets.
  • Purchase a local SIM card (China Mobile, Unicom, Telecom) upon arrival; passport registration is necessary. Consider Airalo eSIMs.
  • A reliable VPN (ExpressVPN) is necessary for accessing blocked international apps. Set it up and test it BEFORE you arrive.

Gadgets & Apps

Bring your standard camera gear, spare batteries, and memory cards. A lightweight setup is good for carrying convenience. Consider B&H Photo for gear.

Recommended Apps

  • Navigation: Baidu Maps or Gaode Maps for China-specific transport.
  • Translation: Google Translate (downloadable packs) or Baidu Translate.
  • Payments: WeChat Pay and Alipay are essential; link an international credit card.

Data Backup & Security

Portable Chargers

Bring Portable chargers and power banks; your mobile phone is heavily relied upon.

Cloud Storage

Use cloud storage or an External hard drive for backing up photos and documents.

Ride-Sharing

Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行) is the dominant ride-sharing app. WeChat (微信) is the main messaging app.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

A well-stocked personal health kit addresses minor ailments and improves comfort.

Contents

  • Include Band-aids, antibacterial wipes, pain relievers.
  • Anti-diarrhea medication, antihistamines, and motion sickness pills.
  • Carry prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor's letter.

Outdoor & Personal Care

Prepare for Fuzhou's climate and ensure individual comfort.

Essentials

  • Insect repellent is useful, especially in summer and near water bodies.
  • Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses provide protection from the sun.
  • Bring specific brands of toiletries or get in touch with lens solution; international brands might be limited.

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Motion Sickness

  • Useful for long bus or train journeys.
  • Helpful for boat trips, specifically on the Minjiang River or to nearby islands.
  • Pack your preferred motion sickness remedies.

Altitude Considerations

  • Fuzhou city itself does not present altitude issues.
  • Even Mount Gushan is not at an altitude that typically causes sickness.
  • No specific altitude sickness remedies are generally necessary for this region.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Essentials

For excursions up Mount Gushan or other natural parks, specific items make your trip better.

  • Small daypack for water and snacks.
  • Water bottle to stay hydrated.
  • Comfortable hiking or walking shoes.
  • Lightweight, breathable clothing.

Photography Gear

Capture Fuzhou's scenic beauty and cultural moments with your preferred camera setup.

  • Your camera and preferred lenses.
  • Extra batteries and memory cards.
  • Lightweight tripod for night shots or stable landscapes.
  • Protective bag or case.

Cycling & General Tourism

For exploring the city and general travel, most items are easily accessible.

  • Bicycles are easily rented through shared bike apps.
  • No specific gear is generally necessary for standard Fuzhou tourism.
  • Other specialized gear is unlikely to be rented by tourists.
  • Focus on general travel comfort and convenience items.

Rent vs Buy Decision Matrix

Buy Bring from Home

  • Prescription medications with documentation.
  • Specific non-Chinese brand electronics or toiletries.
  • Your preferred VPN service, configured and tested.
  • Portable chargers and power banks.

Rent / Buy Locally

  • Local SIM cards for phone service.
  • Shared bicycles via apps (HelloBike, Didi Bike).
  • Bottled water is widely available.
  • Most common over-the-counter medications.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items improve comfort, security, and convenience during your Fuzhou trip.

Travel Comfort & Safety

  • A Neck pillow and Eye mask for long journeys.
  • Luggage locks and a Money belt to secure valuables.
  • PROTECTION from rfid skimming for your cards for extra security.
  • Pre-configured VPN access on all your devices.

Eco-Friendly & Region-Specific

Sustainable choices and Fuzhou-specific items simplify your trip.

Sustainable & Smart Travel

  • A Reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste, refilled with purified water.
  • A Reusable shopping bag for daily purchases.
  • Mobile payment apps (WeChat Pay, Alipay) linked to an international card.
  • Consider bringing specific non-Chinese brand electronics or medications, as these might be limited or costly.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Eco-friendly for purchases.

Travel Utensil Set

Avoids single-use plastics.

Solar Charger

Sustainable device charging.

Destination-Specific Items

Fuzhou Unique Needs

  • Pre-configured VPN for international app access.
  • Mobile payment apps (WeChat Pay, Alipay) with linked international cards.
  • Baidu Maps or Gaode Maps downloaded for local navigation.

General Travel Enhancements

  • Consider a travel-sized laundry detergent for extended journeys.
  • A small notebook and pen for quick notes or directions.
  • Offline entertainment for long journeys (books, podcasts).

Packing Pro Tips

Roll your clothes to maximize space and minimize wrinkles. Use packing cubes for better organization within your luggage.

Place heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase and distribute weight evenly for more convenient carrying.