MileHacker Logo
What to Pack for Zhangjiajie

What to Pack for Zhangjiajie

Zhangjiajie Hunan, China Travel Guide

Season-Specific Attire

Zhangjiajie's variable climate means your choice of clothing should adapt to different seasons and activities. Wearing layers is a smart strategy year-round.

Spring & Summer

Autumn & Winter Attire

As seasons change, adjust your layers for warmth and protection against colder weather.

Autumn & Winter Essentials

  • Autumn: T-shirts, sweaters, warm jacket or fleece, comfortable long pants.
  • Winter: Thermal underwear, sweaters, heavy Winter coat, hat, Gloves, and Scarf.
  • Winter: A waterproof outer layer protects against snow or sleet.

Footwear Recommendations

Hiking Boots/Shoes

A must for comfort and safety on trails, stairs, and wet surfaces. Look for good ankle support and grip.

Essential for exploring the park.

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Useful for evenings or less strenuous activities in towns, ensuring relaxed strolls.

Good for town and not heavy walks.

Sandals/Flip-flops

Pack these for hotel use or very relaxed moments in summer, offering comfort after a day of hiking.

For leisure and hotel stays.

Essential Documents for Travel

Organizing Important Papers

Organizing your documents before you leave saves time and prevents stress during your trip. Keep both physical and digital copies of important papers.

  • Passport and Visa Documentation: Original passport with a valid Chinese visa.
  • Travel Insurance Policy Information: Digital and printed copies, including emergency contacts.
  • Vaccination Records and Health Documentation: Copies of vaccination records and any pertinent medical history.
  • Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations: Flights, accommodations, tours, and park tickets.
  • Emergency Contact Information: List of family/friends, embassy or consulate details.
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs for Discounts (if applicable): Bring international student cards (ISIC) for potential ticket discounts.
  • International Driving Permit: Not practical for overseas travelers inside China due to complex licensing requirements. Focus on alternative transport methods.
  • Ensure all documents are current and valid for your entire trip.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Ensuring your devices remain charged and connected is important for navigation and communication.

Adapters & SIM Cards

  • Power: China uses Type A, C, and I outlets (220V, 50Hz). A Universal travel adapter is highly recommended.
  • Mobile: Most smartphones work; purchase a local SIM card (e.g., China Mobile) or use an International eSIM upon arrival.
  • VPN: A VPN (ExpressVPN, NordVPN) is a must for accessing many Western websites and apps (Google, Facebook, WhatsApp); install before arrival.

Camera & Apps

Capture Zhangjiajie's beauty and navigate easily with these tech essentials.

Photo Gear & Software

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Utilize services like Google Drive or Dropbox (with VPN) for important files.

External Hard Drive

Bring a Small external hard drive for a physical backup of pictures and videos.

Second Memory Card

Carry a spare memory card for your camera as a quick backup solution.

Health & Wellness Items

Personal First Aid Kit

A well-stocked personal health kit helps you manage minor ailments and stay healthy all through your journey.

Essential Supplies

Protection & Hygiene

Protect yourself from the elements and maintain personal hygiene on the go.

Sun & Insect Defense

  • Insect Repellent: Choose one with DEET or picaridin, especially for summer.
  • Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen, a Wide-brimmed hat, Sunglasses.
  • Personal Hygiene: Bring specific brands of toiletries, contact lens solution, or menstrual products that may be hard to find locally.

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Motion Sickness

  • Relevant for long bus rides, cable cars, and the 99 Bends Road up Tianmen Mountain.
  • Pack appropriate solutions if you are prone to motion sickness.
  • Choose seats with better views or fresh air if possible.

Altitude Sickness

  • Generally not an issue as Zhangjiajie's peaks are not high enough to cause significant altitude sickness.
  • Focus on managing physical exertion due to many stairs and elevation changes.
  • Stay hydrated to avoid general fatigue from physical activity.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

Essential for comfort and safety on Zhangjiajie's trails.

Photography Kit

Take photos of the beautiful landscapes with the right equipment.

  • Camera with wide-angle and telephoto lenses.
  • Spare batteries and multiple memory cards.
  • A tripod for low-light or long exposure shots.
  • A rain cover protects equipment from mist or sudden showers.

Weather Protection

Anticipate Zhangjiajie's unpredictable weather changes.

  • Good quality Waterproof jacket or Rain poncho.
  • Waterproof pants for heavy rain or wet trails.
  • Quick-drying clothing for comfort.
  • Sunscreen and a hat for sunny days.

Gear: Rent vs. Bring Decisions

Items to Bring

  • Personal hiking boots (comfort and fit are of utmost importance).
  • Specialized camera gear and accessories.
  • Specific personal hygiene items or medications.
  • VPN-enabled devices (install prior to arrival).

Items to Rent or Buy Locally

  • Rain gear (ponchos are inexpensive locally).
  • Trekking poles (readily available near park entrances).
  • Power banks if you forget yours (widely available in cities).
  • Local SIM cards for data and calls.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These further items elevate comfort, security, and convenience during your trip.

Travel Comfort

Specialty & Practical Items

Region-Specific Essentials

  • Rain Poncho: Convenient for sudden showers in the parks.
  • Water Purification: Portable filter or Purification tablets (for sustainability or off-path travel).
  • Larger shoe sizes or specific personal care items may be difficult to find locally.
  • Adventure Medical Kits: For robust first-aid supplies.

Sustainable Travel Items

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduce plastic waste by refilling a personal bottle.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Avoid single-use plastic luggage for purchases.

Travel Utensils

Use your own cutlery instead of disposable options.

E-Tickets & Digital Copies

Minimize paper usage by storing documents digitally.

Clothing & Gear Affiliate Resources

Online Retailers

  • Amazon: Main consumer retail platform for a wide range of clothing and gear. Visit Amazon.com
  • Nordace: Modern travel bag and accessory store. Find stylish and functional items at Nordace.com
  • Pacsafe: Anti-theft bags and travel security products. Secure your belongings with Pacsafe.com

Tech & Electronics Retailers

  • B&H Photo: Camera and electronics retailer for all your photos needs. Explore at BHPhotoVideo.com
  • Airalo: eSIM provider for international data plans. Stay connected with Airalo.com
  • VPN Services: NordVPN and ExpressVPN for secure and private internet access.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll your clothes tightly to save space and minimize wrinkles in your luggage.

Use packing cubes to organize your belongings and compress them efficiently.