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What to Pack for Zhangjiakou

What to Pack for Zhangjiakou

Zhangjiakou Hebei, China Travel Guide

Winter Clothing Dec-Mar

This season is extremely cold. Layering is for warmth and adaptability.

Winter Layers & Accessories

Spring/Autumn Apr-May, Sep-Nov & Summer Jun-Aug

These seasons bring mild to cool temperatures, while summer is warm with rain.

Seasonal Attire

Footwear and Cultural Dress Code

Footwear for Walking

Comfortable, broken-in Walking shoes are advised for exploring the city. For different types of ground, consider sturdy hiking boots or Trail shoes.

City exploration.

Winter Footwear

Insulated, Waterproof boots with good traction are essential for navigating snow and ice.

Snow and ice.

Cultural Attire

Casual wear is acceptable. When visiting temples or religious sites, modest attire shows respect; cover shoulders and knees.

Religious sites.

Essential Documents

Documents for Travel

Careful organization of your travel documents prevents stress and helps a smooth trip. Always maintain these items secure and accessible.

  • Original Passport & Valid Chinese Visa.
  • Photocopies & Digital Scans of Passport/Visa.
  • Travel Insurance Policy Details.
  • International Driving Permit (Not recognized in mainland China).
  • Vaccination Records & Health Documentation.
  • Printed & Digital Copies of Reservations (Flights, Hotels, Tours).
  • Emergency Contact Information.
  • Student/senior/press Cards for possible discounts.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

China uses 220V electricity at 50Hz. Plug types are A (two parallel flat pins), C (two round pins), and I (three flat pins in a triangular pattern).

Electrical Needs

Mobile & Apps

Most unlocked GSM phones are compatible. Purchasing a local SIM card is cost-effective. ESIM options are available.

Essential Apps & VPN

  • Baidu Maps or Amap for navigation.
  • Pleco & Google Translate (offline pack).
  • WeChat & Alipay for communication/payments.

Data Backup & Security

Vpn

Download and set up a reliable VPN (e.g., NordVPN, ExpressVPN) before arrival for access to blocked international sites.

Camera Gear

Bring standard photography equipment. In winter, extra batteries (B&H Photo) are needed as frigid conditions drains them faster.

Backup Solutions

Use cloud storage, an External hard drive, or a second memory card for photos/videos.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid & Medications

A well-stocked health and wellness kit offers tranquility. Local pharmacies are available, but language barriers can make specific purchases difficult.

First Aid Kit Contents

Prevention & Hygiene

Cold and flu remedies (notably in the wintertime), rehydration salts, and blister treatment are useful. Bring a duplicate of your prescriptions and a doctor's note translated into Mandarin.

Hygiene & Protection

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Remedies

  • Chongli ski areas reach moderate elevations (up to 2,100m).
  • Stay hydrated to help mitigate mild symptoms.
  • Consider bringing remedies if sensitive to altitude.

Motion Sickness

  • Pills for motion sickness are useful for bus or traveling by car.
  • Winding mountain roads can cause discomfort.
  • Pack preferred brand to avoid language barriers.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Skiing/Snowboarding Gear

Full ski gear is needed for Chongli. This includes skis/snowboard, boots, bindings, poles, helmet, goggles, and waterproof, insulated clothing.

Hiking Equipment

For hiking, pack a comfortable backpack, suitable Hiking poles (optional), and a Water bladder or bottles.

  • Comfortable backpack.
  • Sturdy hiking boots.
  • Water bottles.
  • Rain gear.

Camping Gear

If camping, bring a tent, Sleeping bag, cooking gear, and other camping necessities. Check local regulations for designated camping areas.

  • Tent.
  • Sleeping bag.
  • Cooking equipment.
  • Check local regulations.

Rent vs. Bring Decision Matrix

Rent Equipment Locally

  • Saves hassle of transporting bulky gear.
  • World-class winter sports resorts in Chongli offer good quality rental equipment.
  • Hiking gear can be purchased in larger Chinese cities.
  • Bicycles may be rented from guesthouses or shops in tourist areas.

Bring Your Own Equipment

  • Experienced skiers/snowboarders prefer their own gear for optimal fit.
  • Familiar and well-fitting hiking equipment is more comfortable.
  • Serious cyclists may prefer bringing their own bike or specific components.
  • Requires planning for transport logistics.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security Items

Small stuff can greatly enhance your travel comfort, security, and convenience.

Items

Reusable & Locally Difficult Items

Reduce waste and avoid issues with finding specific items locally.

Sustainability & Specifics

  • Reusable water bottle, Shopping bag, and Cutlery.
  • Specific over-the-counter medications and international toiletries.
  • Specialized outdoor gear like specific hiking boots or advanced climbing equipment.
  • Travel blanket or Shawl.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Bottle

Reduces plastic waste.

Shopping Bag

For market purchases.

Reusable Cutlery

For street food or picnics.

Support Local

Sustainable travel choices.

Destination-Specific Items

Winter Comfort

  • A good quality thermos for hot drinks.
  • Provides coziness in cold weather, especially on slopes.
  • Useful for Chongli ski adventures.

Daily Essentials

  • A lightweight daypack for daily essentials.
  • Holds water, snacks, camera, and an extra layer.
  • Useful for exploring the city or grasslands.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll your clothes to save space and reduce wrinkles. Use Packing cubes to organize different clothing types or outfits.

Pack a little, empty bag in your luggage for souvenirs or dirty laundry. This maintains your main bag organized and provides extra space if needed.