MileHacker Logo
What to Pack for Hong Kong

Season-Specific Clothing

Pack according to the time of year to ensure comfort.

Items by Season

Cultural & Activity Attire

Hong Kong is a contemporary city, but showing respect in certain settings is good.

Attire Guidelines

  • Religious Sites: Modest attire, covering shoulders and knees, is recommended.
  • Hiking: Breathable activewear, sturdy Hiking shoes, Sun protection.
  • Swimming: Swimsuit, cover-up, Sandals for beaches or pools.

Footwear Recommendations

General Wear

Comfortable walking shoes are essential. You will walk a great deal.

Prevent blisters with well-broken-in shoes.

Hiking Specific

Pack Hiking boots or sturdy Trail shoes for outdoor trails.

Good grip is helpful for varied terrain.

Summer Comfort

Sandals or open-toed shoes work for hot weather. Waterproof shoes are wise for summer downpours.

Bring closed-toe shoes that handle rain well.

Essential Documents

Important Paperwork for Travel

Keep your important documents organized and accessible.

  • Valid Passport: Must remain valid for at for six months or more beyond your planned stay.
  • Visa (if required): Carry a printout or digital copy of your approved visa.
  • Travel Insurance: Bring policy number and emergency contact details.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): Only if you plan to drive, though less common for tourists.
  • Vaccination Records: Keep a record of your vaccinations, especially if required for other countries.
  • Prescription Medications: Bring sufficient supply in original packaging with a doctor's letter.
  • Reservations: Printed and digital copies of flights, accommodation, tours.
  • Emergency Contacts: Local emergency numbers (999), embassy, family/friends.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Stay connected and powered up with the right gear.

Essential Tech Items

  • Power Adapter: Hong Kong special administrative region uses 220V, A TYPE g plug (uk style) plugs. A Universal travel adapter with Type G compatibility is recommended.
  • Mobile Phone/SIM: Most modern smartphones are compatible. Purchase local SIM cards at the airport or convenience stores. Airalo offers eSIM options.
  • Portable Chargers: A mobile power source or power bank is useful for long days of sightseeing.

Digital Tools & Security

Make your digital experience smooth and secure.

Recommended Apps & Security

  • Apps: Google Maps, MTR Mobile for navigation; Google Translate; Uber, HKTaxi for ride-sharing.
  • Camera Gear: Bring your standard camera gear. A Wide-angle lens helps for cityscapes. Check B&H Photo for gear.
  • Data Security: Utilize VPN services like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for public Wi-Fi. Backup data to cloud storage or an External hard drive.

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Sync photos and documents to a cloud service (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox) regularly.

External Drives

Carry a small, portable External hard drive for offline backups of critical data.

VPN Services

Use a VPN like NordVPN or ExpressVPN for secure internet access, especially on public Wi-Fi.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid & Medications

A small personal health kit helps address minor ailments.

What to Carry

Protection & Hydration

Stay protected from insects and sun, and remain hydrated.

Protections

Altitude & Motion Sickness

Motion Sickness Remedies

  • Helpful if you are prone to seasickness on ferries.
  • Useful for car sickness on winding roads in the New Territories.
  • Anti-nausea medication or patches for comfort.

Altitude Sickness

  • Hong Kong does not have high altitudes.
  • Altitude sickness remedies are not typically needed.
  • Consult a doctor if traveling to high-altitude destinations after Hong Kong.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

Tailor your kit to your planned adventures on Hong Kong's trails.

  • A Daypack for essentials.
  • Reusable water bottle.
  • Appropriate footwear (hiking boots/trail shoes).
  • Light rain jacket. Hiking poles can be hired.

Water Sports Gear

For beach visits and water activities, pack these items.

Camping Gear

If camping in Hong Kong's country parks, check specific campsite requirements.

  • You may need to bring your own Sleeping bag.
  • Tent, although some sites offer rentals.
  • Cooking equipment if self-catering.
  • Headlamp or flashlight.

Rent vs Buy Decision Matrix

Items to Buy & Bring

  • Personal medications and hygiene essentials (specific brands).
  • Small electronics (Power banks, adapter).
  • Comfortable walking shoes.
  • Specific camera lenses or specialized gear.

Items to Rent Locally

  • Larger or specialized items like Hiking poles.
  • Snorkeling gear along the coastline or through tour operators.
  • Bicycles for exploring outlying islands.
  • Camping tents and Sleeping bags at some campsites.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

These items promote comfort, security, and convenience.

Items for Smooth Travel

Sustainable Travel Items

Adopt sustainable travel practices by packing reusable items.

Eco-Friendly Choices

  • Reusable Water Bottle: Essential, as refill stations are available.
  • Reusable Shopping Bag: Due to Hong Kong's plastic bag levy.
  • Reusable Utensils: Handy for street food.

Sustainable Travel Essentials

Reusable Water Bottle

Refill stations are common, reducing plastic waste.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Avoid plastic bag levies and help the environment.

Reusable Coffee Cup

Enjoy drinks without single-use cups.

Energy-Saving Habits

Turn off lights and AC when leaving your room.

Destination-Specific Items

Weather Preparedness

  • A small, a travel-sized umbrella for sun and sudden showers.
  • A portable fan for hot and humid summer months.
  • Consider a mask on days with greater air pollution.

Local Purchases

  • Most common items are readily available in Hong Kong.
  • Bring specific brands of toiletries or specialized outdoor gear if you need them.
  • Prescription medications are advisable to bring from home.

Packing Pro Tips

Roll your clothes tightly to save space in your luggage. Use Packing cubes to organize different clothing types or outfits, making it easier to find items without unpacking everything.

Consider bringing a travel-sized laundry soap or detergent for handwashing light clothes, especially during summer.