MileHacker Logo
What to Pack for Wuwei

What to Pack for Wuwei

Wuwei Gansu, China Travel Guide

Spring & Summer Attire

Spring (March-May) calls for layers as temperatures change throughout the day. Summer (June-August) means warm to hot days having robust sun.

Items

Autumn & Winter Attire

Autumn (September-November) calls for warmer layers as temperatures drop. Winter (December-February) means preparing for extreme cold.

Items

Cultural Dress Code

General Tolerance

China generally accepts Western dress styles in the majority of public areas.

No strict everyday dress codes.

Religious Sites

Modest attire is recommended when visiting temples, mosques, or other religious sites.

Cover shoulders and knees.

Showing Respect

Dressing appropriately for cultural sites demonstrates respect for local customs.

Embrace local traditions.

Essential Documents

Critical Travel Paperwork

Careful organization of your documents prevents potential travel problems. Keep both physical and digital copies.

  • Passport and Visa: Original passport with valid Chinese visa. Digital copies stored securely.
  • Travel Insurance: Policy number and emergency contact details for quick access.
  • Health Documentation: Vaccination records, important medical records, doctor's notes for prescriptions.
  • Reservations: Printed and digital copies of flight, hotel, and train bookings.
  • Emergency Contacts: List family/friends, embassy/consulate details, on phone and physical card.
  • IDs for Discounts: International student cards (ISIC) or senior IDs for potential discounts.
  • Driving Permit: International Driving Permit not sufficient for independent driving in China.
  • Invitation Letter: As needed, for family visits or if detailed accommodation reservations are insufficient.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

China uses Type A, C, and I power sockets, with a standard voltage of 220V at 50Hz. Ensure your devices support dual voltage. GSM/WCDMA/LTE are standard network types for smartphones.

Essentials

Apps & Camera Gear

Install apps before arrival. A VPN is useful for accessing blocked international online platforms and apps. Consider specific camera lenses for landscapes.

Digital Tools & Photography

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Utilize cloud services to back up photos and important documents regularly.

External Hard Drive

Carry a small External hard drive for local backups of crucial files.

Physical Copies

Keep physical copies of essential travel documents separate from digital versions.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal Health Kit

Pack a personal health kit to address common issues and specific needs. Include enough prescription medication for your entire trip.

Medication Essentials

  • First Aid: Adventure Medical Kits, band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers.
  • Prescription Meds: With doctor's note, in original packaging.
  • OTC Meds: For colds, flu, allergies, antacids (specific brands may be hard to find).

Protection & Hygiene

Strong sun exposure is common. Insect repellent may be handy in rural areas during warmer months. Pack personal hygiene essentials.

Sun, Bugs & Cleanliness

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Considerations

  • Wuwei's altitude is around 1500m.
  • Altitude issues are generally unlikely for most travelers.
  • Those sensitive to altitude should still take it easy upon arrival.

Motion Sickness

  • Bus journeys in mountainous areas might be winding.
  • Pack motion sickness cures if you are prone to it.
  • Longer bus rides may increase the likelihood.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

If exploring the Qilian Mountains (further afield), specific hiking gear will be helpful.

Camping Equipment

Wuwei generally does not involve specific camping gear for typical visits. For serious camping, consider renting.

  • Bring your personal belongings such as specific boots.
  • Rent larger items like tents.
  • Specialized outfitters are likely in Lanzhou.
  • No gear for snorkeling needed for Wuwei.

Specialty Items

No especially unique specialty items are required for general Wuwei experiences.

  • Focus on practical items for climate.
  • Consider items for cultural context.
  • Region-specific items are generally covered.
  • No unique local transport like tuk-tuks.

Rent vs. Bring Decision Matrix

Bring Cost-Effective & Personal Fit

  • Personal hiking boots (comfort and fit are important).
  • Small electronics like cameras and lenses.
  • Specialized medications or personal hygiene items.
  • Items difficult or expensive to purchase locally.

Rent Convenience & Avoid Bulk

  • Large camping gear (tents, a bag for sleeping ins) for serious trips.
  • Specific outdoor gear for an one-time use.
  • Bicycles (shared bike programs are available).
  • Anything that poses airline baggage restrictions or fees.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items enhance comfort, security, and convenience during your travels, especially for long journeys.

Travel Essentials

  • Comfort: Neck pillow, Eye mask, Earplugs for long trips.
  • Security: Small locks for luggage, Pacsafe anti-theft bags, Money belt, RFID-protected wallet.
  • Cash: Small denominations of cash for local use.
  • Smartphone: A Smartphone with essential navigation applications, translation, and communication.

Sustainable & Local Items

Focus on items that reduce waste and support sustainable travel. Pack any specific items that are difficult or expensive to buy locally.

Eco-Friendly & Convenient

  • Reusable Bottle: Reusable Water bottle (refill where possible, though bottled water is safer).
  • Reusable Bag: Reusable shopping bag for purchases.
  • Portable Utensils: A set of portable utensils.
  • Difficult to Find: Specific toiletries or favorite snacks. Amazon is a source for many items.

Nordace: Your Travel Companion

Smart Luggage

Innovative designs indicating organized travel. Explore Nordace.

Ergonomic Backpacks

Comfortable and practical for all adventures.

Travel Organizers

Keep your essentials neat and accessible.

Tech Accessories

Solutions for charging and protecting devices.

Destination-Specific Items

For Desert Proximity

  • Dust Mask: Especially for spring, due to potential dust storms.
  • Sunglasses: Protect eyes from sun and dust.
  • Hydration: Always carry water, especially when venturing near desert areas.

For Cultural Sites

  • Camera: Capture the beauty of ancient grottoes and temples.
  • Travel Guide/Notes: To understand the rich history of sites.
  • Comfortable Shoes: For extensive walking at historical sites.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll your clothes to save space and minimize wrinkles. Use packing cubes to organize your luggage efficiently, making items easier to find. Consider a carry-on only if possible to streamline travel.

Pack a small day bag for daily excursions, containing water, snacks, sunscreen, and your camera. Keep valuable documents and electronics in your personal item, always within reach.

What to Pack for Wuwei. Clothes, Accessories, Essentials