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What to Pack for Xining

What to Pack for Xining

Xining Qinghai, China Travel Guide

Summer Clothing June-September

Pack light layers like t-shirts, Long-sleeved shirts, and light trousers or skirts. Long sleeves offer safeguarding from the strong sun.

Evenings & Higher Altitudes

  • Evenings turn cool quickly; a warm jacket or fleece is suitable.
  • A Rain jacket or Compact umbrella is good for summer showers.
  • Start with moisture-wicking base layer, add fleece, and a wind/water resistant outer layer.

Winter & Shoulder Season Clothing

Spring/Autumn (April-May, October): Medium to heavy layers needed. Pack sweaters, warm jackets, and possibly thermal underwear. Winter (November-March): Heavy cold-weather gear is fundamental.

Winter Essentials

Footwear Recommendations

City Exploration

Comfortable walking shoes are a must for navigating city streets, markets, and attractions.

Daily use

Natural Areas

Waterproof hiking boots are suggested for trips to Qinghai Lake or other natural areas, especially in the wet periods.

Varied terrain

Winter Visits

Insulated, Waterproof boots are fundamental for winter travel, keeping feet warm and dry in snow and extreme cold.

Snow plus frigid

Essential Documents

Critical Travel Documents

Keeping your documents organized and secure is a primary focus for international travel. Carry original passport with a valid Chinese visa.

  • Passport and Visa Documentation: Keep photocopies and digital copies separate.
  • Your Travel Protection Details: Policy number, emergency contacts, overview of insurance coverage.
  • Vaccination Records and Health Documentation: Doctor's note for medications (translated).
  • Printed and Digital Copies of Reservations: Flights, hotels, tours, train tickets.
  • Emergency Contact Information: Local emergency numbers, embassy/consulate, family.
  • Student/Senior/Press IDs: May offer discounts (check eligibility).
  • International Driving Permit: Not generally useful for driving in China without a Chinese license.
  • Prescription Medications: Carry in original packaging with a doctor's note.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

China uses 220V, 50Hz. Plug types are A (two flat parallel pins), C (two round pins), and I (three flat pins in a triangle). A Universal travel adapter with surge protection is strongly suggested.

Mobile Phone & SIM Card Options

  • Ensure your phone is unlocked and compatible with GSM networks.
  • Purchase local SIM cards at airports or official stores. Registration with a passport is mandatory.
  • Consider eSIM options for convenience if your phone supports it. Airalo

Camera & Charging

Carry your standard camera gear. Extra batteries are useful, as cold weather drains them faster. Bring ample memory cards. B&H Photo supplies camera needs.

Charging & Drone Usage

  • Portable chargers and power banks are practical for frequent phone use.
  • Drone usage may be restricted near airports, government buildings, or religious sites. Check local rules.
  • Use cloud storage, external hard drives, or USB drives to save copies of pictures and documents regularly.

Essential Travel Apps

Navigation

Baidu Maps (百度地图) or Amap (高德地图) are the most accurate local navigation apps. Google Translate may have limited functionality.

Communication & Payment

WeChat (微信) is absolutely fundamental for messaging and payments. Alipay (支付宝) is another main mobile payment app. Link international credit cards towards these.

VPN Services

A VPN (ExpressVPN) is necessary for accessing international sites and social media (Google, Facebook, WhatsApp). Download and set up your VPN before arriving.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid & Medications

A well-stocked personal health kit aids with minor issues and existing conditions. Include Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers (e.g., Ibuprofen), Anti-diarrhea medication, and blister treatment.

Prescription & OTC Essentials

  • Carry all prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor's note.
  • Pack remedies for colds/flu, allergies, and stomach relief (e.g., antacids).
  • Consider bringing altitude sickness medication (Diamox, consult your doctor).

Protection & Hygiene

The high altitude increases subjection to UV radiation. High SPF sunscreen, Lip balm with SPF, a Wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses are required.

Water & Personal Care

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Altitude Sickness Relief

  • Altitude sickness medication (e.g., Diamox, consult doctor).
  • Portable oxygen cans, available locally.
  • Natural remedies or herbal teas for mild symptoms.

Motion Sickness Solutions

  • Motion sickness pills for long by bus or rail journeys.
  • Ginger candy or chews, a natural anti-nausea option.
  • Acupressure wristbands for non-medicinal relief.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Essentials

For day hikes in the region's natural beauty, particular gear is beneficial.

Cycling Gear

If cycling around Qinghai Lake, having the correct gear enhances comfort and safety.

  • A Helmet for safety.
  • Cycling gloves for comfort.
  • Padded shorts for longer rides.
  • Basic gear is often provided with rentals, but personal items ensure fit.

Camping Gear

For those planning to camp, carefully consider what to rent vs. Bring for reliability.

  • Bicycles are easy to rent locally.
  • Camping gear can be rented, but quality varies.
  • Consider bringing your own things like sleeping bags or specific tents for high standards.
  • Portable oxygen cans are available locally.

Rent vs. Buy Decision Matrix

Advantages of Renting

  • Avoids transport hassle for bulky items like bikes.
  • Cost-effective for short-term use.
  • Reduces luggage weight.
  • Local support for maintenance/issues.

Considerations for Buying/Bringing

  • Ensures preferred quality and fit for your own equipment.
  • Familiarity with your own equipment.
  • Better for extended trips where rental costs accumulate.
  • Specialized items hard to find locally.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items frequently contribute to comfort, security, and convenience during travels, especially on long journeys.

Travel Comfort & Safety Items

Reusable & Specialty Items

Factor in objects that lessen trash and may be difficult or expensive to obtain locally.

Sustainable & Personal Items

  • A reusable water bottle (refill with bottled or boiled water).
  • A reusable shopping bag.
  • Reusable utensils for daily use.
  • Specialty snacks, toiletries, or certain clothes/shoe sizes.

Sustainable Travel Items

Water Filter Bottle

Reduces plastic bottle waste.

Reusable Shopping Bag

For markets and daily purchases.

Solid Toiletries

Eco-friendly and travel-friendly.

Solar Charger

For off-grid charging needs.

Destination-Specific Items

Monastery Visits

  • Modest attire: Cover shoulders and knees.
  • Small, respectful donation (optional).
  • Comfortable shoes for a lot of walking.

Qinghai Lake Excursions

  • Binoculars for bird watching.
  • Camera with extra batteries and memory.
  • Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen).

Packing Pro Tips

Bring a small, lightweight towel. It dries quickly and proves practical in various situations, from budget accommodations to outdoor activities.

You might want to carry a small bag for dirty laundry to keep your clean clothes separate and organized.

What to Pack for Xining. Clothes, Accessories, Essentials