Xi'an guide
🇨🇳 Packing List
What to pack for Xi'an
In October, Xi'an is typically cool, expect showers (10°C - 19°C). Pick the month you travel and the list changes with it.
Xi'an essentials
- Casual. Comfortable walking shoes essential.
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
- A warm jacket or fleece
- Layers for cool evenings
- Light rain jacket or poncho
- Compact umbrella
- Undergarments and sleepwear
- Enough outfits for 7 days (6 sets)
- Thermal base layers
- Warm mid-layers (fleece or wool)
- One dressy evening outfit for celebrations
Toiletries & health
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and toiletries
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Personal medication with prescription
- Basic first-aid: band-aids, painkillers, ORS
- Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
- Insect / mosquito repellent
- Roujiamo (pork bun), biangbiang noodles and yang rou pao mo are Xi'an staples. Busy stalls in the Muslim Quarter are safe.
Electronics
- Phone and charger
- Power bank
- Camera (optional)
- Power adaptor: Type A/C/I plugs, 220V.
Money
- Debit / credit cards
- Local currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY/RMB)
- WeChat Pay preferred. Cash handy for Muslim Quarter street food.
Local know-how
- Local SIM: China Mobile/Unicom. Airport or city shops.
- Black taxi overcharging
- Peak season in October: keep bags zipped and don't flash jewellery
- October highlights: National Day Golden Week; Terracotta Warriors packed