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What to Pack & Bring

What to Pack & Bring

Taiwan

Seasonal Clothing

Spring (March-May): Light long-sleeved shirts and t-shirts. A light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings. A waterproof jacket or umbrella is a must due to increasing rainfall. Light, breathable fabrics serve well.

Summer June-August

  • Lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
  • A light rain jacket for sudden, heavy downpours.
  • Sun protection: wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.

Autumn & Winter Attire

Autumn (September-November): This season presents pleasant weather. Pack t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, and light sweaters or fleeces for cooler mornings and evenings. A light jacket frequently furnishes ample warmth.

Winter December-February

  • Layers are important: long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and a warm jacket (down or fleece-lined).
  • A light scarf also provides warmth and comfort.
  • Quick-drying clothes for humidity.

Footwear Guidance

General Sightseeing

Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers suit most tourist areas and short strolls.

Ideal for everyday exploration.

Hiking & Trails

Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots with good ankle support are suitable for longer trails or uneven terrain.

Important for varied surfaces and safety.

Water & Rainy Conditions

Waterproof footwear proves useful during the rainy season or near water, sustaining dry, comfortable feet.

Wet weather preparedness.

Documents for Travel

Important Papers

Retaining significant documents organized and secure smooths your travels. These are your most significant travel documents.

  • Original passport (valid for 6+ months).
  • Physical and digital copies of passport's main page.
  • Travel insurance policy details and emergency contacts.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) with national license (if driving).
  • Vaccination records and health documentation.
  • Printed and digital copies of all reservations (flights, hotels, tours).
  • Emergency contact information (local numbers, embassy).
  • Student/senior/press IDs for potential discounts.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

Ensure your devices operate safely in Taiwan. Taiwan uses 110V at 60Hz, with Type A and Type B plugs. A universal travel adapter carries recommendation. Most modern electronics are dual voltage and only need a plug adapter. For non-dual voltage devices, a voltage converter might be needed.

Mobile Phone Compatibility

  • Most modern smartphones operate in Taiwan.
  • Acquire a local SIM card upon arrival (Chunghwa Telecom, Far EasTone, Taiwan Mobile).
  • ESIM options offer convenience for immediate connectivity.

Camera & Charging

Capture the splendor of Sun Moon Lake. A versatile camera suffices for capturing the lake's scenic beauty. Pack extra batteries and memory cards to avoid missing shots. A portable charger or power bank proves a must for keeping mobile devices charged throughout the day, especially on long cycling trips or hikes.

Device Preparation

  • Fully charge all electronic devices and power banks before departure.
  • Download necessary apps and offline maps to conserve data and ensure functionality without Wi-Fi.
  • A waterproof phone pouch safeguards your device during water activities.

Apps & Data Safety

Recommended Apps

Google Maps (for navigation, offline maps), Google Translate (offline Mandarin pack), Line (messaging), Central Weather Administration (CWA) app (weather forecasts).

Data Backup

Utilize cloud storage services (Google Drive, Dropbox) for backing up photos and important documents. Consider an external hard drive or USB drive for offline photo backups.

Ride-sharing

Uber operates with limited availability around Sun Moon Lake; local taxis are more common. Taiwan Taxi (台灣大車隊) is a popular local app, requiring a local phone number.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid Essentials

Assemble a compact first aid kit for common issues. A well-stocked personal health kit makes a difference on your journey. Enough prescription medications for the entire trip, plus a few extra days, are advisable. Carry medications in original, labeled containers with a prescription copy or doctor's letter.

Kit Contents

  • Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, sterile gauze, medical tape.
  • Pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen), antihistamines.
  • Anti-diarrhea medication, motion sickness medication. Blister treatment.

Personal Comforts

Over-the-counter medications for common issues: cold and flu remedies, antacids for indigestion, and eye drops. These common medications can be harder to source in unfamiliar brands or formulations locally.

Hygiene & Hydration

  • Insect repellent (DEET or picaridin).
  • High-SPF sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses.
  • Personal water filter (for sustainability, bottled water is widely available).

Altitude & Motion

Altitude

  • Sun Moon Lake sits at a moderate altitude (748m).
  • Altitude sickness is not a concern here.
  • No specific altitude remedies are needed.

Motion Sickness

  • Motion sickness remedies prove useful for boat rides on the lake.
  • Also consider for bus travel on winding mountain roads.
  • Pack preferred brand of medication.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Hiking Gear

Durable hiking shoes, moisture-wicking socks, breathable clothing. A water bottle or hydration pack. A small backpack to hold essentials.

  • Trekking poles (optional for challenging trails).
  • Layered clothing for temperature shifts.
  • Snacks for energy.
  • Map or GPS device.

Cycling Necessities

Comfortable cycling shorts and gloves (optional). Rental shops provide helmets, but bringing your own ensures a better fit and hygiene. Quick-dry clothing.

  • A light backpack for water and personal items.
  • Sunglasses to protect eyes.
  • Sunscreen.
  • Electric bike rental for assistance with inclines.

Water Activities

Quick-dry clothing. Protect electronics with a waterproof bag. Use sunscreen. Lake swimming is generally restricted, so do not pack snorkeling gear unless an unique event specifically permits it.

  • Secure straps for glasses.
  • Reusable water bottle.
  • Small towel.
  • Camera for scenic views.

Rent vs. Bring

Items to Rent

  • Bicycles are readily available for rent around the lake.
  • Rental quality varies from basic city bikes to high-end road bikes.
  • Helmets are provided with bike rentals.
  • Camping gear from specialized shops in larger cities.

Items to Bring

  • Your own bike for serious cyclists on extended tours.
  • Your own well-fitting helmet for comfort and hygiene.
  • Essential lightweight camping gear for longer trips.
  • No highly specialized gear beyond standard outdoor equipment is needed.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort & Security

Make long journeys more agreeable. For long bus rides, a travel neck pillow, eye mask, and earplugs significantly elevate your comfort. These items aid in relaxation and rest during transit.

Traveler's Safety

  • A small padlock if staying in a hostel with lockers.
  • Money belt or hidden pouch for passport, cash, credit cards.
  • RFID blocking wallet for credit cards and passport.
  • Luggage locks for checked baggage to deter tampering.

Reusable & Personal Items

Contribute to sustainable travel. Carry a reusable water bottle to refill. This reduces plastic waste and saves money. A double-walled bottle keeps water cool in Taiwan's climate. Bring a compact, reusable shopping bag to prevent single-use plastic bags when buying souvenirs or snacks.

Difficult to Find Locally

  • Feminine hygiene products (different brands).
  • Specific dental care products (toothpaste, floss).
  • Deodorant brands and strengths might differ.
  • Reusable utensils/chopsticks for street food or takeout.

Eco-Friendly Travel

Reusable Bottle

Reduces plastic waste, saves money.

Reusable Bag

Averts single-use plastic bags.

Travel Utensils

Diminishes waste from takeout food.

Offline Maps

Conserves data, always accessible.

Region-Specific Tips

Unique Sun Moon Lake Items

  • No items specifically unique to Sun Moon Lake require specialized gear.
  • The focus remains on outdoor pursuit and comfort for varying weather.
  • A good camera for scenic photography is a must.

Daypack Essentials

  • Pack a small, lightweight daypack.
  • Invaluable for carrying water, snacks, camera, and extra layers.
  • Use during daily explorations around the lake.

Packing Strategy

Create a detailed packing list and check off items as you place them in your luggage. This process aids in ensuring no significant item is forgotten.

Consider renting an electric bike for cycling if you desire assistance with the gentle inclines around the lake. This renders the experience more accessible for all fitness levels.