Shanghai, China: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.
Ready to pack for Shanghai, China? If you're planning to go to Shanghai, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Shanghai
- Important essentials for Shanghai
- Activities for Shanghai
- Shanghai in January: weather and what to pack
- Shanghai in February: weather and what to pack
- Shanghai in March: weather and what to pack
- Shanghai in April: weather and what to pack
- Shanghai in May: weather and what to pack
- Shanghai in June: weather and what to pack
- Shanghai in July: weather and what to pack
- Shanghai in August: weather and what to pack
- Shanghai in September: weather and what to pack
- Shanghai in October: weather and what to pack
- Shanghai in November: weather and what to pack
- Shanghai in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Shanghai, China
Based on the climate and weather in Shanghai, China, the best time to go is October. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Shanghai, China
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Shanghai, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Shanghai, China by month
January
January in Shanghai is brisk. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: here
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Waterproof snow boots
In addition to standard footwear, you should bring snow boots. For visiting Shanghai, we suggest these boots:
Waterproof jacket that can be used in snow
This is essential here.
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.Ski accessories
Shanghai has some good ski slopes If you plan to ski, we would suggest:
- day pack
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants
- lip balm with SPF
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Shanghai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to find the correct kind. Most adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
February
February in Shanghai is brisk. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) to 40s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Jacket or coat
Warm pants or jeans
Light gloves or mittens
Extra socks
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this one
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Shanghai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
March
March in Shanghai can be brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). But the colder weather doesn't bring low humidity, which is in the 60% to 70% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These are vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Shanghai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to get the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
April
April in Shanghai is crisp. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Pants or jeans
Light and heavy skirts
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Shanghai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
May
In May, Shanghai is a perfect temperature. Temperatures routinely are in the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Shanghai, with several of the days of the month having rain. In May, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Extra socks
Bug repellent
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Anti-theft backpack
For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Shanghai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
June
June in Shanghai is hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) to low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Bug repellent
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sandals
Light skirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Shanghai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.
July
If you are traveling to Shanghai in July, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also cleans contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Shanghai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
August
In August, Shanghai is constantly hot. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 30s C) and about a third of the time jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Shanghai, with several of the days of the month having rain. In August, humidity reaches as high as 80%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and guard against skin damage:
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Shanghai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
September
September here is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sunscreen lotion
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We like:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Shanghai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you choose the correct type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
October
October in this region is mild. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Extra socks
Light skirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Bug repellent
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Shanghai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to choose the right type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.
November
November in Shanghai is crisp. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) to low 60s F (mid 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Light and heavy skirts
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Shanghai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you find the right kind. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.
December
December in this region can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Extra socks
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best pick: this one
Jacket or coat
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Shanghai. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Anti-theft backpack
For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you get the correct kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
What to do in Shanghai, China
Shanghai, a cosmopolitan city located in the east of China, is often referred to as the economic powerhouse of China. It is the largest city in China, and a major tourist destination in Asia. With its unique mix of traditional Chinese culture and modern development, Shanghai offers a plethora of attractions that are sure to delight tourists from all over the world. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Shanghai.
The Bund: One of the most popular attractions in Shanghai, The Bund is a waterfront promenade that runs along the Huangpu River. It is known for its stunning colonial architecture, which dates back to the early 20th century. Visitors can stroll along the promenade while taking in the breathtaking views of the modern skyscrapers on the opposite side of the river.
Yu Garden: Yu Garden is a traditional Chinese garden that was built during the Ming Dynasty. It is famous for its beautiful rock formations, picturesque pavilions and intricate architecture. The garden is also home to several ponds, waterfalls, and bridges. It is an ideal spot to relax and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of Chinese architecture.
Shanghai Tower: The Shanghai Tower is the tallest building in China and one of the tallest in the world. Visitors can take a high-speed elevator to the top of the tower, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck. It is a must-visit attraction for anyone who wants to experience the awe-inspiring heights of modern China.
Shanghai Museum: The Shanghai Museum is one of the best museums in China. It houses a vast collection of artifacts from ancient China and showcases the country's rich history and culture. Visitors can view bronze artifacts, pottery, jade, calligraphy, and paintings that span the last 5,000 years of Chinese history.
Jing'an Temple: The Jing'an Temple is a Buddhist temple located in the heart of Shanghai. It is known for its beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and ancient relics. Visitors can explore the temple's many halls and courtyards, including the famous Jade Buddha Hall where a large jade statue of Buddha is housed.
Shanghai Disneyland: Shanghai Disneyland is one of the most popular theme parks in China and a must-visit destination for families. It is a magical world that combines Disney's storytelling with traditional Chinese culture. The park features classic Disney attractions like Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean, as well as unique attractions like Wandering Moon Teahouse and Roaring Rapids.
In conclusion, Shanghai is a vibrant city with something to offer for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, architecture, or theme parks, there is no shortage of attractions to keep you entertained. With its unique blend of tradition and modernity, Shanghai is a destination that is sure to leave visitors mesmerized and eager to return.
![](/dev.jpg)
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Berenty Reserve, Madagascar, Khuda Abad, Pakistan, Wincanton, England, United Kingdom, Saarlouis, Germany, Jaipurhat District, Bangladesh, Sebring, Florida, United States of America, Shakhrizabz, Uzbekistan, Zhunan, Taiwan, Creede, Colorado, United States of America, Sepang, Malaysia, and Považie, Slovakia.