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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Guizhou, China

Seasonal Wear

Choose fabrics that dry quickly for the humid conditions.

Spring & Autumn

  • Mild to cool, often rainy. Pack Long-sleeved shirts, light sweaters or fleeces.
  • Jeans or comfortable trousers are good.
  • A lightweight waterproof jacket or a compact umbrella is useful for frequent drizzle.

Warm & Cold Weather

Select fabrics that breathe in summer and provide insulation in winter.

Summer & Winter

  • Summer (June-August): Warm to hot, humid, very rainy. Choose light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Short-sleeved shirts and shorts are comfortable.
  • A Light rain jacket or an umbrella is necessary because rain showers can be sudden and heavy.
  • Winter (December-February): Cool to cold and damp. Warm layers are necessary. Pack thermal underwear, sweaters, and a warm, waterproof or windproof jacket. A scarf and Gloves are useful.

Footwear Choices

Walking Shoes

Comfortable, broken-in Walking shoes or sneakers are good for city exploration. Plenty of walking awaits in parks and ancient towns.

City exploration comfort.

Waterproof & Sandals

Due to Guiyang's frequent rain, waterproof footwear or Sandals that handle getting wet are beneficial, particularly in summer's sudden downpours.

Rainy day readiness.

Cultural Attire

For religious sites, respectful dress that covers shoulders and knees is appropriate. A light scarf or wrap helps if wearing less modest clothing.

Cultural respect.

Essential Documents

Documents

Carefully prepare all required documents before your trip to Guiyang.

  • Passport & Visa: Minimum six months validity remaining.
  • Travel Insurance Policy: Print and digital copies.
  • International Driving Permit: Requires a temporary Chinese permit.
  • Vaccination Records & Health Documents: With doctor's letter for prescriptions.
  • Reservations: Printed and digital copies for flights, hotels, tours.
  • Emergency Contacts: Local numbers, embassy, family/friends.
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs: For potential discounts.
  • Carry copies in a separate bag or digitally.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Modern travel relies heavily on technology. Proper power and mobile readiness are important.

Adapters & SIMs

  • Power: 220V, 50Hz. China uses Type A, C, I plugs. A Universal travel adapter is recommended.
  • Mobile Phone Compatibility: Most modern smartphones support China's 4G/5G networks.
  • SIM Card Options: Local SIM cards or ESIMs for immediate connectivity. Passport for local SIM registration.

Photography & Power

Capture your journey with suitable camera equipment and maintain device power on the go.

Camera Gear & Chargers

Digital Safety

Navigation Apps

Baidu Maps (百度地图) or Amap (Gaode Ditu 高德地图) are the most accurate and reliable mapping apps in China. Google Maps functions but may lack detail for public transport.

Communication Apps

WeChat (微信 Weixin) and Alipay (支付宝 Zhifubao) are necessary for virtually everything. Set these up and link your international credit card before arrival. Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行) is China's ride-sharing app.

Data Backup & VPN

Use cloud storage (accessible via VPN or VPN service), an External hard drive, or a USB flash drive to back up photos and important documents regularly. A VPN is necessary to access many Western websites and apps blocked by the "Great Firewall." Purchase and install a reliable VPN on all devices before arrival and test its function.

Health & Wellness Items

Travel First Aid

A tailored First aid kit manages minor ailments.

Kit Contents

Medication Management

Proper management of prescription and over-the-counter medications prevents issues.

Prescriptions & OTC

  • Prescription Medications: Carry in original labeled containers. Include a copy of your prescription and doctor's letter. Pack enough for the entire trip.
  • Over-the-Counter Medications: Cold and flu remedies, antacids, laxatives, and additional pain relief. Local pharmacies may lack specific brands or English-speaking staff.
  • Personal Hygiene Essentials: Bring specific preferences as Western brands might be hard to find. Travel-sized toiletries are convenient.

Special Health Needs

Altitude & Motion Sickness

  • Guiyang is not at high altitude; however, travel to higher elevations in Guizhou or Yunnan provinces might require altitude sickness remedies.
  • Motion sickness remedies are useful for winding mountain roads common in the region.
  • Insect repellent is important during warmer, wetter months. Choose a Repellent with DEET or picaridin.

Sun Protection & Water

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Essentials

For hikes in Qianling Park or other scenic areas, comfortable gear is .

Caving Gear

If venturing into caving in nearby areas like Tianhetan, tour operators typically provide specialized equipment.

  • Headlamps (usually provided).
  • Helmets (usually provided).
  • Wear sturdy shoes.
  • Comfortable, older clothing.

Rent vs. Bring

For casual hiking, comfortable, broken-in shoes from home are best. For specialized gear, renting from local operators is safer.

  • Casual hiking: Bring your own shoes.
  • Specialized gear (rock climbing, advanced caving): Rent locally.
  • Reputable local tour operators supply safety-checked rentals.
  • Professional guidance ensures safety.

Equipment Decisions

Benefits of Renting

  • Reduced baggage weight and airline fees.
  • Access to well-maintained, activity-specific gear.
  • Local knowledge regarding gear and conditions.
  • Cost-effective for single-use or specialized activities.

Considerations for Buying/Bringing

  • Higher initial cost if purchasing for one trip.
  • Baggage weight restrictions and potential excess fees.
  • Customs regulations on specialized equipment.
  • Maintenance and cleaning responsibilities.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

A few miscellaneous items greatly improve comfort and security during your Guiyang trip.

Travel Comfort & Safety

Sustainable Travel

Embrace eco-conscious practices to lessen your environmental footprint while traveling.

Reusable Items

  • Reusable water bottle: Fill with filtered or boiled water from your hotel to reduce plastic waste.
  • Reusable shopping bag: Useful for market purchases.
  • Reusable utensils: If you plan to eat street food frequently, minimize waste with your own.
  • These small changes contribute to responsible tourism.

Eco-Friendly Travel

Local Engagement

Support local businesses and minimize cultural disruption.

Waste Reduction

Carry reusable items to lessen disposable waste.

Resource Conservation

Mindful energy and water use in accommodation.

Water Responsibility

Choose safe drinking water, limiting plastic bottle use.

Local Considerations

Climate Adaptations

  • A reliable waterproof jacket or umbrella for frequent rain.
  • Lightweight, quick-drying clothing for humidity.
  • Comfortable walking gear for city and park exploration.

Cultural Respect

  • A phrasebook or translation app aids communication with locals.
  • Basic knowledge of Mandarin phrases shows respect.
  • Awareness of local customs.

Packing Wisdom

Efficient packing minimizes luggage and maximizes convenience. Roll clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles. Utilize packing cubes to organize items and compress clothing.

Place heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase. Keep important documents, medications, and valuables in your carry-on bag.