Happily, China is a very casual place, which makes creating a packing list for a holiday here quite easy—even if you’re planning on dining at an upscale restaurant. Chinese culture has wholeheartedly embraced casual Western-style clothing. Fancy embroidered jeans can be appropriate for weddings, and it’s interesting to note that the white Western dress is as popular as a red qipao for the bride. Regardless, your casual, comfortable travel attire will suit everyday sightseeing, while a smart casual outfit suffices for a nice dinner in the city.

Packing Notes

Function should guide your clothing choices. Opt for comfortable outfits while sightseeing, as this activity often involves considerable walking, alongside sitting on buses or other forms of transportation. Therefore, consider your wardrobe before you leave; laying out your clothing and piecing together outfits will ensure you maximize the use of each item.

Do Laundry

If your trip spans two weeks, you do not need to pack a new outfit for each day. Utilize laundry services available in hotels, or alternatively, carry some laundry powder so you can wash certain items in your room and leave them overnight to dry. Quick-dry clothes are particularly beneficial for daytime sightseeing. Consequently, it is wise to avoid hauling a large suitcase filled with clothes that you may or may not wear. Instead, keep extra space available for treasures you will collect along your journey.

Day to Night Dressing Ideas

Consider the travel tips of an experienced aunt. Her go-to choice? Brooks Brothers’ non-iron shirts for women in white, paired with khaki trousers and flats for the day. At night, she enhances her look with a scarf or a funky necklace, switching to dark trousers and dressier shoes. This approach is brilliant—imagine packing five white shirts, two pairs of pants, and two pairs of shoes, along with some accessories. Such a packing strategy covers an entire week’s worth of outfits while consuming minimal space in your suitcase. For men, simply adding a smart jacket over daytime khakis and a polo shirt can prepare you for an evening out. Unless your trip involves business, ties and suits are unnecessary in China.

Shoes

Ensure you bring an adequate selection of the right footwear. Purchasing shoes in China can be challenging if you have larger feet. It is crucial to include at least one pair of good, comfortable walking shoes. Avoid breaking in brand new shoes while you’re on your trip. It’s essential to break them in beforehand, as the last thing you want is to deal with blisters while exploring the Great Wall.

A Word on Being Conservative

Young Chinese individuals sometimes exhibit much less conservativeness compared to the older generations, which is a common trend globally. However, some local women who sport revealing attire, such as short shorts or skirts with high heels, may belong to specific professions. It’s important to show respect for local customs; thus, refrain from wearing anything that would be inappropriate for a family dinner back home. Additionally, topless bathing is generally frowned upon.

Accessories

Selecting the right day bag is vital for your travels. A backpack can be suitable for carrying bulky non-valuables; however, avoid placing passports, money, or any valuables in a backpack as it can easily attract pickpockets. Backpacks are ideal for maps, guidebooks, water bottles, and shopping finds. For valuables, use an over-the-shoulder bag or a money-belt; it’s wise for men not to keep their wallets in their back pockets.