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What to Pack for Putian

What to Pack for Putian

Putian Fujian, China Travel Guide

Climate-Appropriate Clothing

Seasonal Attire

Pack clothing suitable for Putian's subtropical monsoon climate. Choose breathable fabrics for comfort.

General Recommendations

  • Spring/Autumn: Light jackets, Long-sleeved shirts, sweaters.
  • Summer: Lightweight, breathable fabrics (cotton/linen), shorts, t-shirts.
  • Winter: Sweaters, light-to-medium weight jackets, slacks.

Activity & Cultural Dress

When visiting temples, monasteries, or other religious sites, dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees out of respect. Casual clothing finds acceptance elsewhere.

Specific Considerations

Footwear Essentials

Walking Shoes

Comfortable Walking shoes are crucial for city and attraction exploration.

You will spend significant time on your feet.

Summer Footwear

Sandals or open-toed shoes are good for summer visits and regions along the coast.

Ideal for warmer weather.

Outdoor & Rain Shoes

Waterproof shoes or sturdy Sneakers if you plan outdoor activities in rainy seasons or rural areas.

Hiking footwear for trails.

Essential Documents

Critical Travel Documents

Assemble all required documents prior to your trip to Putian. Your original passport with a valid visa holds main importance. Always maintain physical and digital copies.

  • Passport & Visa: Original passport with valid Chinese visa.
  • Copies: Photocopies or digital copies of your passport and visa, stored separately.
  • Travel Insurance: Policy information, emergency contacts, summary of coverage.
  • Health Docs: Vaccination records, doctor's letter for prescription medications.
  • Reservations: Printed/digital copies of flights, hotels, train tickets, tours.
  • Emergency Contacts: List of family/friends, embassy/consulate, local emergency lines.
  • Driving: International Driving Permit (IDP) not recognized; temporary local license needed (complex).
  • Student/Senior IDs: May offer discounts, but local IDs often preferred.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

China uses Type A, C, and I outlets (220V at 50Hz). A universal adapter is recommended. Bring a voltage converter if your devices do not support 100-240V.

Mobile Phone & VPN

  • Ensure your Mobile phone is unlocked for international SIM cards.
  • Install a VPN app like NordVPN or ExpressVPN Before arriving in China.
  • VPN is useful for accessing many international websites (Google, Facebook, WhatsApp, X).

Cameras & Charging

Bring camera equipment based on your preference, ensuring spare batteries and memory cards. B&H Photo has options.

Power Management

  • Portable chargers and power banks are highly recommended.
  • Your mobile phone battery drains quickly for payments, navigation, and translation.
  • A Voltage converter if devices do not support 100-240V.

Essential Apps & Data Security

Navigation Apps

Baidu Maps (百度地图) or Amap (高德地图) for local accuracy (mainly Chinese). Airalo for eSims.

Translation & Communication

Google Translate (with VPN) or Baidu Translate (百度翻译). WeChat (微信) and Alipay (支付宝) for communication and transactions.

Ride-Sharing & Backups

Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行) for ride-sharing. Cloud storage or an External hard drive for photos and documents.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

Prepare a destination-specific First aid kit for Putian. Include standard items and specific medications you might need.

Kit Contents

  • Pain relievers, antibacterial wipes, bandages, adhesive tape.
  • Anti-diarrhea medication.
  • Motion sickness pills (especially for mountainous or winding roads).

Medications & Sun Protection

Bring all prescription medications in their original packaging. Carry a copy of your prescription and a doctor's letter. Pack over-the-counter medications for common issues.

Sun & Insect Care

Personal Hygiene & Specialized Items

Hygiene Essentials

  • Pack specific brands of toiletries you prefer.
  • Contact lens solution.
  • Feminine hygiene products.

Specialty & Altitude

  • Specific dietary supplements if needed.
  • Certain foreign snacks or very large shoe/clothing sizes.
  • Altitude sickness is not a concern in Putian.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking & Outdoors

For treks in Jiulonggu National Forest Park, pack appropriate Hiking footwear and a light Backpack.

  • Durable clothing.
  • Water bottle.
  • Sun protection.
  • Trail snacks.

Swimming & Beaches

For taking a swim or beach visits on Meizhou Island, bring your Swimwear and a towel.

  • Beach towel.
  • Flip-flops or sandals.
  • Sunscreen.
  • Waterproof bag for phone.

Rent vs. Bring

Most basic equipment, like beach chairs, can be rented locally. Specific gear, such as high-quality Hiking boots, should be brought if needed.

  • Local rentals for convenience.
  • Personal specialized gear.
  • No unique specialty items required.
  • Consider baggage limits.

Rent vs. Buy Decision Matrix

Advantages of Renting

  • Less luggage, lighter travel.
  • Green, less waste.
  • Cost-effective for short-term use.
  • No maintenance or storage worries.

Advantages of Bringing Your Own

  • Guaranteed quality and fit.
  • Familiarity and comfort with personal equipment.
  • May be cheaper for long-term or frequent travel.
  • Avoid potential language barriers for rentals.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Include comfort items for transportation, especially for long train or bus journeys. Bring security items to protect your valuables.

Essentials for Ease & Safety

Sustainable & Regional Items

Pack reusable items to reduce plastic waste and for convenience. A VPN subscription activated Before arriving inside China stands as a required region-specific item.

Eco-friendly & Tech Prep

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For markets and shopping.

Reusable Utensils

For street food and takeaways.

Solar Charger

For charging small electronics.

Local Tastes & Essentials

Putian's Culinary Delights

  • Putian Braised Loach noodles.
  • Oyster Omelets.
  • Fresh seafood dishes emphasizing local Fujianese flavors.

General Putian Essentials

  • Offline maps for navigation.
  • Small cash denominations (though mobile payment dominates).
  • Light face masks if sensitive to occasional air quality issues.

Packing Pro Tips

A carefully curated packing list saves you time and potential inconvenience during your trip. Focus on practical and adaptable items for a seamless journey.

Remember, local availability for specific items might differ from what you expect, so pack what you truly cannot live without.

What to Pack for Putian. Clothes, Accessories, Essentials