Shanghai guide
🇨🇳 Packing List
What to pack for Shanghai
In September, Shanghai is typically warm, heavy rain (22°C - 28°C). Pick the month you travel and the list changes with it.
Shanghai essentials
- Sarong or shawl for temple visits
Documents
- Photo ID
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Visa / e-visa printout
- Return / onward flight tickets
- Travel insurance policy
- Hotel booking confirmations
- Passport-size photographs (2-4)
- Photocopies / phone photos of passport and tickets, stored separately
Clothing
- Casual day outfits
- One smart-casual outfit for dinners
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light summer clothing
- Sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle
- Light rain jacket or poncho
- Compact umbrella
- Quick-dry footwear
- Undergarments and sleepwear
- Enough outfits for 7 days (6 sets)
- Layered outfits you can add or remove as the day warms
Toiletries & health
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and toiletries
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Personal medication with prescription
- Basic first-aid: band-aids, painkillers, ORS
- Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
- Insect / mosquito repellent
Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Power bank
- Camera (optional)
- Power adaptor: Type A/C/I plugs, 220V. Multi-type outlets common.
Money
- Debit / credit cards
- Local currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY/RMB)
- WeChat Pay and Alipay essential — link international card before arrival. Physical cash (RMB) as backup.
Local know-how
- Local SIM: China Mobile, Unicom. Need passport to register. Or use eSIM before arrival.
- Pocket tissues: some island toilets are squat-style or limited
- Black taxi overcharging
- September highlights: Mid-Autumn Festival; Weather improving
Trip gear
- Waterproof dry bag for electronics