MileHacker Logo
What to Pack for Jiuquan

What to Pack for Jiuquan

Jiuquan Gansu, China Travel Guide

Climate-Appropriate Clothing

Jiuquan's desert climate dictates a flexible wardrobe. Expect significant temperature variations, often within a single day. Layering is always a wise approach.

Season-Specific Recommendations

Cultural Dress and Activity Attire

Generally, dressing modestly is appropriate across China. While Jiuquan does not enforce strict dress codes for public areas, wearing clothing that covers your shoulders and knees demonstrates respect when visiting temples or other religious sites.

Activity-Specific Gear

Footwear Recommendations

Walking Shoes

Essential for exploring historical sites, city parks, and general urban walks.

Comfortable and supportive

Hiking Boots

Recommended for excursions into desert areas or natural landscapes, offering better grip and ankle support.

Sturdy and durable

Sandals/Casual Shoes

Suitable for resting in the evenings, but less practical for extensive daytime exploration on varied terrain.

Lightweight for comfort

Required Documents

Critical Travel Documents

Having all your important documents organized and accessible prevents delays and stress during your trip. Keep both physical and digital copies.

  • Passport and Visa: Valid passport (6+ months validity, blank pages) and valid Chinese visa.
  • Travel Insurance: Printed and digital copies of your policy, including emergency contacts.
  • Health Docs: Vaccination records (if needed), medical notes, prescriptions.
  • Reservations: Printed/digital flight, hotel, train, and tour confirmations.
  • IDs for Discounts: Student, senior, or press IDs (Chinese IDs generally preferred).
  • Important Note: An International Driving Permit is not recognized in China. Foreigners need a temporary Chinese driving permit to drive legally.
  • Emergency Contacts: List of family, friends, and embassy information.
  • Copies: Keep physical and digital copies of all important documents separate from originals.

Technology and Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Stay connected and preserve your memories with the right tech gear. China uses 220V, 50Hz. Power outlets are mainly Type A (two flat parallel pins), Type C (a type c plug), and Type I (three flat pins, angled). A Universal travel adapter is highly recommended.

Mobile Phones & VPN

  • Most modern smartphones are compatible. Purchase a local SIM card (China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom) upon arrival for local calls and mobile data (passport needed for registration).
  • A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is absolutely needed if you wish to access services like Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, or X, as they are blocked. Download and configure a VPN Before you arrive. Consider ExpressVPN.
  • Portable chargers and power banks are highly recommended for long sightseeing days.

Camera & Apps

For camera gear, consider a camera with good low-light performance. A Wide-angle lens captures vast landscapes; a Telephoto lens is useful for distant views. Bring extra batteries and memory cards. Explore choices at B&H Photo.

Recommended Apps

  • WeChat (微信) and Alipay (支付宝) for communication and mobile payments.
  • Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行) for ride-hailing.
  • Baidu Maps (百度地图) or Gaode Maps (高德地图/AutoNavi) for navigation (superior to Google Maps in China).

Data Backup & Translation

Backup Important Data

Use cloud storage or an External hard drive to store photos and copies of important documents.

Translation Apps

Pleco (for Chinese dictionary) and Google Translate (download offline Mandarin pack) are helpful.

Airalo eSIMs

Consider Airalo for convenient eSIM data plans for your smartphone, supporting easy connectivity upon arrival.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal Health Kit

Protect your health and comfort with a tailored health kit. Include standard items like Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, Anti-diarrhea medication, and antihistamines.

Jiuquan-Specific Additions

  • Rehydration salts for the dry climate.
  • Lip balm, strong moisturizer, and eye drops for dust.
  • Adequate supply of prescription medications with documentation (doctor's note, generic names).

Preventative Care

Pack over-the-counter remedies for colds, flu, indigestion, and mild pain relief. While you can easily find bottled water, a Personal water filter bottle or Purification tablets are useful for remote excursions or as backup.

Sun & Insect Protection

  • High SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat due to intense desert sun.
  • Insect repellent is less crucial in dry desert but wise near vegetated areas.
  • Personal hygiene items difficult to find locally (specific feminine hygiene, specialized skincare).

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Considerations

  • Jiuquan city (approx. 1,400m) not typically high enough for altitude sickness.
  • Awareness needed if traveling to higher altitude areas in Gansu.
  • Symptoms might have headache, nausea, dizziness.

Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness remedies are useful for long bus or car journeys.
  • Roads in some areas can be winding.
  • Pack your preferred medication if you are prone to motion sickness.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Essentials

For hiking around Jiuquan's natural areas or near Jiayuguan Fort.

Desert Exploration Gear

Specific items for comfortable and safe desert excursions.

  • Goggles or scarf (splus security)
  • Gaiters (sand in shoes)
  • Sunscreen & hat
  • Extra water

Specialty Items

Items for rent vs. Bring and unique Jiuquan experiences.

  • Desert activity gear often rented on-site.
  • Warm clothing for stargazing (desert nights get cold).
  • Camera with spare batteries.
  • Binoculars (for distant views).

Rent vs. Bring Decision Matrix

When to Bring Your Own Gear

  • Specific quality preferences for your gear.
  • Extended trips where personal fit is critical.
  • Cost savings on long-term rentals.
  • Things with high personal comfort requirements (e.g., hiking boots).

When to Rent Gear Locally

  • Common gear for arid activities (camel rides, dune buggies).
  • Specialty items not frequently used on other trips.
  • Avoids luggage weight/space issues.
  • Typically available on-site at designated tourist areas (e.g., near Dunhuang).

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Do not forget these extra items for comfort and security during your travels.

Travel Comfort

Reusable & Hygiene Items

These items promote sustainability and hygiene on the go.

Eco-Friendly & Clean Travel

Sustainable Travel Items

Water Filter Bottle

Reduces plastic waste.

Universal Adapter

Minimizes multiple adapters.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For local markets.

Pack Light

Lowers carbon footprint.

Items to Purchase Locally

Local Purchases

  • Snacks and drinks.
  • Basic clothing items (if needed).
  • Common toiletries.

Items to Bring From Home

  • Specialized outdoor gear.
  • Specific brands of toiletries or medication.
  • Items catering to larger body sizes may be harder to find.

Packing Pro Tip

Always make a packing list designed for your itinerary and the season. This assists you avoid forgetting critical items and overpacking.

What to Pack for Jiuquan. Clothes, Accessories, Essentials