MileHacker Logo
What to Pack for Guli

What to Pack for Guli

Guli Zhejiang, China Travel Guide

Spring Weather Attire March-May

Days are mild, but evenings turn cool. Layers are ideal for fluctuating temperatures.

Spring Essentials

Summer Weather Attire June-August

Expect hot and humid conditions. Lightweight fabrics keep you comfortable.

Summer Essentials

Footwear for Various Terrains

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Comfortable Walking shoes are important. Extensive walking awaits you when sightseeing in Shaoxing’s Old Town and other historical areas.

Must-have for city exploration

Waterproof Options

Waterproof Shoes or sandals are useful during the rainy seasons (spring and summer) to hold your feet dry.

Rainy season essential

Dressier Footwear

Pack dressier shoes for evenings if your plans include dining at nicer restaurants or attending specific events.

For special occasions

Your Travel Documents Checklist

Documents for Your Trip

Possessing all your required documents organized and accessible prevents unnecessary stress during your trip. This section outlines the documents to bring and how to secure them.

  • Original Passport: Valid for at least six months beyond your departure from China and with two blank visa pages.
  • Valid Visa: Ensure your Chinese visa covers your entire stay and suits your travel purpose.
  • Photocopies: Carry multiple photocopies of your passport, visa, and entry stamps. Store them separately.
  • Digital Copies: Save photos or scans of documents on your phone, in cloud storage, and email them to yourself.
  • Travel Insurance Policy: Bring print and digital copies with policy number and emergency contacts.
  • International Driving Permit: China does not recognize IDPs; a temporary Chinese permit is needed for driving.
  • Vaccination Records/Health Docs: Proof of recommended vaccinations and doctor's notes for health conditions/medications.
  • Reservations: Print and digital copies of flights, accommodation, train, and tour bookings.

Stay Connected: Tech Essentials

Powering Your Devices

Modern travel relies heavily on technology. Ensure your devices stay charged and connected.

Power Needs

Mobile Connectivity

Your mobile phone is your lifeline. Plan for local SIM cards or eSIMs.

Phone & Internet

  • SIM Card: Purchase a local SIM or use an eSIM (Airalo) for a local number. Passport registration is needed.
  • VPN: A Reliable VPN service like ExpressVPN or NordVPN on all devices is important for accessing international sites/apps.
  • Apps: WeChat, Alipay, Didi Chuxing, Baidu Maps/Amap are necessary.

Data & Photography

Camera Equipment

Bring your standard camera gear. Be mindful of humidity, especially in summer, and protect equipment from rain. B&H Photo possesses numerous options.

Backup Solutions

Regularly back up photos and important documents. Use cloud storage or an External hard drive to protect your memories and information.

VPN Testing

Install and test your VPN before you arrive in China. Many VPN websites are blocked within the country, making installation difficult once you are there.

Your Health & Safety Kit

Essential First Aid

A basic first aid kit for common travel ailments makes a difference. Consider Adventure Medical Kits.

First Aid Contents

Personal Medications

Bring a sufficient supply of any prescription medications for your entire trip.

Medication Details

  • Carry prescribed drugs in their original containers with a doctor's note.
  • Over-the-counter cold/flu remedies
  • Indigestion tablets or antacids

Protection & Prevention

Insect Protection

Sun Protection

Gearing Up for Local Activities

Hiking Essentials

If you plan to hike in the Kuaiji Mountains or other scenic areas around Shaoxing.

Photography Gear

Capture the beauty of Guli and Shaoxing.

  • Camera gear
  • Extra batteries and memory cards
  • A Tripod for scenic shots or night photography
  • Defense against humidity and rain

Water Activities

For boat rides on Shaoxing’s canals or hotel pools.

  • Swimwear
  • Waterproof phone case
  • Quick-dry towel
  • Sunscreen

Rent vs. Bring Decisions

Rent Locally

  • Public bike-share programs.
  • Hotel bicycle rentals (some accommodations).
  • Local guides for historical tours.
  • Private driver with car for groups (consider DiscoverCars.com for rentals with driver).

Bring Your Own

  • Specialized hiking gear.
  • High-quality photography equipment.
  • Specific international brands (cosmetics, snacks).
  • Niche dietary items.

Smart Packing: Final Touches

Comfort on the Move

Comfort items significantly improve your travel experience, especially on longer journeys.

Travel Comfort

Security Essentials

Protect your belongings with these items, notably in crowded spots.

Secure Your Valuables

Sustainable Travel Choices

Reusable Water Bottle

Reduces plastic waste, many refill stations available.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Ideal for market visits, cuts down on single-use plastics.

Reusable Utensils

A hygienic and eco-friendly choice for street food.

Compact Travel Towel

Lightweight and quick-drying, for various uses.

Destination-Specific Must-Haves

Connectivity Tools

  • VPN service pre-installed on phone and laptop.
  • Offline maps of Shaoxing and Keqiao (Baidu Maps/Amap).
  • A local SIM card or eSIM.

Language Aids

  • Basic Mandarin phrasebook.
  • Translation app (e.g., Pleco).
  • Familiarity with common hand gestures.

Packing Pro Tip

Before you pack, create a checklist and lay out all your items. This confirms you forget nothing important and avoid overpacking.

Pack your belongings efficiently. A well-organized bag makes unpacking and repacking easier, saving you time and stress.