MileHacker Logo
What to Pack for Xuchang

What to Pack for Xuchang

Xuchang Henan, China Travel Guide

Season-Specific Clothing

Spring (March-May) & Autumn (September-November): Layering clothes is optimal. Light jackets, sweaters, and Long-sleeved shirts. A rain jacket or umbrella for spring showers. Days are mild, evenings cool.

Summer June-August

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton/linen).
  • Light rain jacket or umbrella for monsoon season.
  • Light sweater or jacket for air-conditioned spaces.

Winter December-February

Pack your warmest clothing. The cold can feel intense, especially outdoors. Proper insulation keeps you comfortable.

Winter Essentials

  • Heavy coats and thermal underwear.
  • Sweaters, scarves, gloves, and hats.
  • Warm accessories are necessary.

Footwear & Dress Code

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Paramount for touring the city and sightseeing. You spend many hours on your feet. Choose shoes with good support.

Sturdy walking shoes are recommended.

Waterproof Options

Waterproof shoes or Sandals are useful during the rainy summer months. Keep your feet dry.

Summer rain protection.

Cultural Dress Code

No strict dress codes, but modest attire at shrines (shoulders and knees covered) is respectful.

Respectful dress for religious sites.

Required Documents Checklist

Important Travel Documents

Secure and organize your important documentation before and during your Xuchang trip. Having both digital and physical copies separate from originals is a good practice.

  • Passport with valid Chinese visa.
  • Travel insurance policy.
  • Vaccination records and health documentation.
  • Printed/digital copies of reservations (flights, hotels, trains).
  • Student/senior/press IDs for potential discounts.
  • Emergency contact information (family, embassy).
  • International Driving Permit: not practical, Chinese license needed.
  • Create digital and physical copies of all important documents; store them separately.

Tech & Connectivity Essentials

Power & Mobile Connectivity

China uses 220V, 50Hz. Plug types: A, C, I (Type I most prevalent). Bring a Universal travel adapter. Most modern smartphones are compatible with China's GSM networks. Check if your phone is unlocked and supports relevant 4G LTE bands.

SIM Card & VPN

  • Purchase a local SIM card (passport for registration) or an ESIM from Airalo.
  • Many international apps (Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp) are blocked without a VPN.
  • Install a reliable VPN (NordVPN / ExpressVPN) Before arriving in China.

Cameras & Recommended Apps

Xuchang offers many photo opportunities, from historical sites to local street scenes. Consider a Lightweight tripod for night shots. Portable chargers are extremely useful for mobile phone usage for payments, navigation, and communication.

Essential Apps

  • Navigation: Baidu Maps or Amap (Gaode Maps).
  • Translation: Pleco (offline dictionary), Google Translate (offline Chinese language packs).
  • Local Services: WeChat, Alipay (mobile payments), Didi Chuxing (ride-hailing).

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Consider online storage for backing up important photos and data from your devices.

External Hard Drive

An External hard drive serves as a physical backup, especially for large media files.

Device Security

Keep devices password-protected and software updated to guard your information.

Health & Wellness Packing

First Aid & Medications

A well-stocked personal health kit prepares you for minor ailments. Pack common over-the-counter medications for colds, flu, allergies, and stomach upset.

Kit Contents

Sun & Water Protection

Protect the skin on your body, especially during sunny spring, summer, and autumn months. Use Sunscreen. A hat and Sunglasses provide additional Sun protection. Bottled water is standard and easily accessible.

Hydration & Hygiene

Motion Sickness & Altitude

Motion Sickness Remedies

  • Useful for long by bus or rail journeys.
  • Tablets or bands alleviate symptoms.
  • Natural remedies like ginger chews can be effective.

Altitude Sickness

  • Xuchang is generally flat.
  • There's no risk of altitude sickness here.
  • No specific remedies for this in Xuchang.

Activity-Specific Gear

Photography Enthusiasts

Bring your camera, extra batteries, and memory cards. A lightweight tripod might be useful for landscape or low-light shots. B&H Photo has equipment.

  • Camera and lenses
  • Extra batteries
  • Memory cards
  • Lightweight tripod

Cycling Adventures

If you plan to use shared bicycles extensively, consider bringing your own comfortable Cycling gloves or a small, Portable water bottle. Helmets are not universally worn by locals.

  • Cycling gloves
  • Portable water bottle
  • Helmet (optional)
  • Comfortable attire

Walking & Sightseeing

Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are the most important item. You spend many hours exploring historical sites and city parks. Your focus will likely be on historical exploration and cultural immersion.

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Light daypack
  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Camera

Rent vs. Bring Decision

Items to Rent

  • Shared Bicycles: Readily available through apps like Meituan Bike and Hello Bike.
  • Cost-effective for short distances within the city.
  • No highly specialized items unique to Xuchang experiences.
  • Specialty adventure gear (rock climbing, diving) is not a focus.

Items to Bring

  • Specialized dietary snacks (gluten-free, vegan) may be limited.
  • Specific brands of personal care items (toiletries, medications, cosmetics).
  • Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
  • Photography gear and power banks.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security Items

Beyond the basics, a few extra items greatly contribute to your travel comfort and security. A Neck pillow for long train rides. Eye masks and earplugs assist rest in noisy environments.

Security & Versatility

Reusable & Region-Specific

Be mindful of environmental impact and local customs. Refill your reusable water bottle with purified water. This reduces plastic waste. Bring a Reusable shopping bag for purchases.

Thoughtful Additions

  • Travel utensils for street food or picnics.
  • Small gifts for hospitable locals.
  • Hand sanitizer for hygiene.
  • Travel-size tissue packs (public restrooms often lack toilet paper).

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste.

Reusable Shopping Bag

An alternative to plastic bags.

Portable Power Bank

Keeps devices charged on the go.

E-reader/Books

Lightweight entertainment for travel.

Destination-Specific Items

For Cultural Exploration

  • Small notebook for sketching or notes.
  • Language phrasebook or app.
  • Camera with spare memory.

For Urban Navigation

  • Offline maps downloaded for navigation.
  • Power bank for phone.
  • Small denominations of local currency for incidentals.

Packing Pro Tip

Always carry travel-size tissue packs. Public restrooms in China frequently lack toilet paper.

This tiny item greatly enhances comfort during your travels.

What to Pack for Xuchang. Clothes, Accessories, Essentials