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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Liaoning, China

Seasonal Attire

Spring (April-May) & Autumn (September-October): These shoulder seasons offer mild and pleasant weather. Layers are necessary. Pack Long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and a Light jacket or a Windbreaker. A Lightweight waterproof jacket is suggested for unexpected rain. Jeans, trousers, or comfortable skirts suit. Evenings may turn cool, so an extra layer stands beneficial.

Summer June-August

  • Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen are ideal. Pack t-shirts, light blouses, and dresses.
  • Shorts, skirts, and light trousers are appropriate.
  • Pack Swimwear if you plan beach visits or hotel pools.

Winter & Cultural Dress

Winter (November-March): Prepare for cold and dry conditions, often with snow. A heavy Winter coat or a Waterproof and windproof parka carries strong suggestion. Thermal base layers, mid-layers (fleece or wool sweaters), and warm shirts all prove necessary. Don't forget Scarves, Gloves, and a Warm hat for protection against biting winds.

Cultural Considerations

  • Dalian is modern; casual wear generally fits most public spaces.
  • For temples/religious sites, modest attire (covered shoulders and knees) shows respect.
  • Comfortable, sturdy Walking shoes are necessary for city exploration.

Footwear Recommendations

General Travel

Comfortable walking shoes stand as a prime suggestion for any time of year; much time will pass in on-foot exploration.

Versatile & Essential

Summer Months

Sandals, breathable sneakers, or light walking shoes suit the warm weather.

Light & Breathable

Winter & Indoors

Waterproof boots with good grip are necessary for snow and ice. Consider Travel slippers for hotel comfort.

Warm & Secure

Essential Documents

Travel Documents

Keeping your documents organized and secure prevents unnecessary stress during your trip. Have both physical and digital copies of everything.

  • Passport & Visa: Carry originals. It continues as your main identification.
  • Travel Insurance: Policy info, emergency contacts, coverage summary.
  • Driving Permit: Only bring an IDP if you plan to drive. China does not recognize the IDP; a temporary Chinese driving license becomes necessary.
  • Health Docs: Vaccination records, medical history, doctor's note for prescriptions.
  • Reservations: Printed and digital copies of flights, hotels, tours, tickets.
  • Emergency Contacts: Physical list of family/friends, embassy/consulate, local emergency numbers.
  • IDs for Discounts: Carry international student/senior IDs; recognition may vary.
  • Photocopies: Carry a photocopy of your passport/visa, originals stored securely.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Modern travel depends heavily on technology. China employs Type A (flat two-pin), Type C (round two-pin), and Type I (three flat-pin) sockets. The voltage is 220V at 50Hz. A Universal travel adapter with surge protection stands very beneficial to cover various socket types and protect your electronics. Most modern devices are dual voltage and only call for a Plug adapter.

Mobile Essentials

Recommended Apps & Backups

A good Mirrorless camera or Smartphone camera generally serves. For landscape, consider a Compact travel tripod and extra batteries. Remember B&H Photo for gear.

Essential Travel Apps

  • WeChat (微信): Absolutely necessary. Manages communication, mobile payments, and services.
  • Alipay (支付宝): Another primary mobile payment platform.
  • Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行): For ride-hailing services. Aids in overcoming language barriers.
  • Baidu Maps/Gaode Maps: For directional guidance. More precise than Google Maps in China.

Data & Digital Security

Translation Apps

Download offline Mandarin packs for Google Translate or Baidu Translate prior to your trip. Pleco (dictionary app) also stands as a beneficial resource.

Data Backup

Regularly back up your photos and important documents to cloud storage, an External hard drive, or your home computer. This avoids data loss in case of device malfunction or theft.

Security Items

A small padlock for luggage lends an extra layer of security. An RFID blocking wallet or passport holder aids in safeguarding credit cards. A Money belt worn under clothing affords secure storage.

Health & Wellness Items

Medical Preparedness

A well-prepared health and wellness kit keeps minor issues from becoming major inconveniences. Bring enough of your prescription medications for your entire trip, plus extra. Keep them in original packaging with prescription label visible.

First Aid & Prescriptions

  • Basic First Aid Kit: Comprise adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, Pain relievers, Anti-diarrhea medication, motion sickness pills, allergy relief. Moleskin also aids extensive walking.
  • Prescription Meds: Copy of prescription or doctor's note explaining medical condition is suggested, especially for controlled substances.
  • OTC Remedies: Pack for colds, headaches, upset stomach, indigestion, minor cuts, as local options may vary.

Sun & Insect Protection

Water purification options: Bottled water is broadly available and safe. If plastic waste concerns you, a Filtered water bottle could be an option.

Climate-Specific Protection

Special Health Concerns

Altitude Sickness

  • Dalian, a coastal city, means altitude sickness holds no relevance.
  • No specific remedies for altitude sickness are necessary for Dalian travel.
  • Focus on general wellness and common travel health.

Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness remedies may prove beneficial if you plan boat trips.
  • Also useful for long bus journeys on winding roads.
  • Pack preferred brand of anti-nausea medication.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking/Coastal Walks

For exploring Dalian's scenic routes.

  • Sturdy Hiking shoes or comfortable trainers.
  • A Small daypack for water and snacks.
  • Layers of clothing fitting the weather.
  • Reusable water bottle.

Photography Gear

To capture Dalian's beauty.

  • Extra batteries for your camera.
  • Sufficient memory cards.
  • Lens cleaning cloths.
  • Consider a compact travel tripod for landscapes.

Fitness & Beach Gear

For active pursuits and coastal relaxation.

Rent vs. Bring Decision Matrix

Consider Renting

  • Bicycles: Available for rent in several areas like Xinghai Square.
  • Specialized sports equipment: For watersports like jet skiing, typically rented at facilities.
  • Heavy or bulky items: Renting reduces luggage burden.
  • Novelty rides: Golf carts or small electric vehicles may be rented within attraction premises.

Best to Bring From Home

  • High-quality walking shoes: For comfort and proper fit on extensive city walks.
  • Specific camera gear: Familiar equipment ensures best results.
  • Prescription masks for swimming: Essential for clear underwater vision if needed.
  • Personal items you rely on: like specific toiletries or dietary items.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These small additions greatly enhance comfort and convenience during your trip. A small padlock for luggage lends an extra layer of security. An RFID blocking wallet or passport holder aids in safeguarding credit cards and passport from electronic skimming.

Travel Comfort Items

  • Neck Pillow & Eye Mask: For long flights or train journeys, a Travel neck pillow and an Eye mask contribute greatly to rest quality.
  • Earplugs: Prove beneficial for noisy environments.
  • Money Belt: A Money belt worn under clothing affords secure storage for larger sums of cash or important documents.
  • Small Padlock: An extra layer of security for luggage.

Reusable & Region-Specific Items

To minimize your environmental impact, carry a Collapsible reusable shopping bag for market purchases. A reusable water bottle avoids single-use plastic bottles. A pre-purchased and set-up VPN is the prime region-specific necessity for keeping access to international internet services.

Eco & Specific Needs

Sustainable Travel Items

Filtered Water Bottle

Reduces plastic bottle use.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For markets and souvenirs.

Reusable Utensil Set

For street food and dining.

Rechargeable Batteries

For electronics, reducing waste.

Destination-Specific Items

For Coastal Exploration

  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+), sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
  • Swimsuit and quick-drying towel for beaches.
  • Binoculars for coastal views or birdwatching.

For Urban & Historical Sites

  • Offline maps downloaded for Baidu Maps or Gaode Maps.
  • Translation app with offline Mandarin packs.
  • Portable charger for phone, for navigation and mobile payments.

Packing Pro Tip: Daypack

Think about packing a small, lightweight Backpack or daypack for daily excursions.

This permits you to carry water, snacks, a camera, and any clothing layers you might need as temperatures change throughout the day. It keeps essentials accessible without carrying a large bag.