Chengdu, China: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Chengdu, China? If you're planning to go to Chengdu, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Chengdu, China

Based on the climate and weather in Chengdu, China, the best time to go is November. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Chengdu, China

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Chengdu, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Chengdu, China by month

January

January in Chengdu is brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s 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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chengdu. 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

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you pick the right kind. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to a temple, such as Qingyang Temple, wear:

If you go to Stone Elephant Lake Ecological Resort, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

Traveling to Chengdu in February, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chengdu. 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

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you go to a temple, such as Qingyang Temple, wear:

If you go to Stone Elephant Lake Ecological Resort, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in this region can be chilly. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chengdu. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel neck 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 prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to a temple, such as Qingyang Temple, wear:

If you go to Stone Elephant Lake Ecological Resort, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

In April, Chengdu is mild. Temperatures routinely are in the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Chengdu, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In April, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chengdu. 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

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to choose the necessary kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

If you go to a temple, such as Qingyang Temple, wear:

If you go to Stone Elephant Lake Ecological Resort, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you vacation in Chengdu during May, you may notice that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, 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 Chengdu. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

If you go to a temple, such as Qingyang Temple, wear:

If you go to Stone Elephant Lake Ecological Resort, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

In June, Chengdu is hot. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 60s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Chengdu, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In June, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chengdu. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to choose the correct kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to a temple, such as Qingyang Temple, wear:

If you go to Stone Elephant Lake Ecological Resort, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July for Chengdu is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chengdu. 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

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to choose the correct type. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to a temple, such as Qingyang Temple, wear:

If you go to Stone Elephant Lake Ecological Resort, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

In August, Chengdu is hot. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (high 20s C) and 5-10 days this month jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Chengdu, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In August, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chengdu. 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 airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to get the necessary type. The 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 works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to a temple, such as Qingyang Temple, wear:

If you go to Stone Elephant Lake Ecological Resort, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you visit Chengdu during September, you will probably notice that it is a perfect temperature. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally around 70 during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chengdu. 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

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts 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. Ensure that you pick the right type. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to a temple, such as Qingyang Temple, wear:

If you go to Stone Elephant Lake Ecological Resort, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

In October, Chengdu is mild. Temperatures routinely are in the high 60s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Chengdu, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In October, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chengdu. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to pick the necessary type. Most adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

If you go to a temple, such as Qingyang Temple, wear:

If you go to Stone Elephant Lake Ecological Resort, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

If you visit Chengdu during November, you might see that it is chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chengdu. 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

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you get the correct type. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you go to a temple, such as Qingyang Temple, wear:

If you go to Stone Elephant Lake Ecological Resort, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in Chengdu is pretty cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Chengdu. 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 airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

If you go to a temple, such as Qingyang Temple, wear:

If you go to Stone Elephant Lake Ecological Resort, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Chengdu, China

Chengdu, the capital city of the Sichuan Province in China, is renowned for its cultural and historical significance. The city is home to some of the country's best-known tourist attractions. From historical landmarks to architectural marvels, Chengdu offers an exciting itinerary of sightseeing for travelers visiting the city. Let's explore some of the top tourist attractions Chengdu has to offer.

1. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Located just a few kilometers from downtown Chengdu, the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is an exciting destination for travelers. The research base is a sanctuary for giant pandas, and visitors have the opportunity to observe these adorable creatures at close proximity. The site features giant panda enclosures, a museum, and a research center where visitors can learn more about the species.

2. Jinli Pedestrian Street

Jinli Pedestrian Street is a vibrant cultural street that dates back to ancient China. The street has been restored and is now lined with artisanal shops, tea houses, and traditional restaurants. Visitors can enjoy street food, shop for souvenirs, and watch local artists perform traditional dances and musical performances.

3. Wuhou Memorial Temple

Wuhou Memorial Temple is a significant historical site located in the heart of Chengdu. The temple is dedicated to Zhuge Liang, a famous military strategist, and politician who lived during the Three Kingdoms period in China. The temple grounds feature several historical artifacts, including stone tablets and sculptures.

4. Dujiangyan Irrigation System

The Dujiangyan Irrigation System is one of China's ancient engineering marvels. It was built over 2200 years ago and is still in use today, irrigating the Chengdu Plain. The site features canals, dams, and bridges that visitors can see up close. A visit to the Dujiangyan Irrigation System is a great way to explore China's rich history and culture.

5. Leshan Giant Buddha

The Leshan Giant Buddha is a monumental statue carved out of a cliff face. The statue, which is over 71 meters tall, dates back to the Tang Dynasty and is one of the most significant landmarks in China. Visitors can take a boat ride to the base of the statue and marvel at its grandeur up close.

In conclusion, Chengdu is a city rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. From the famous giant pandas to ancient irrigation systems and towering statues, the city offers a range of exciting tourist attractions. If you are planning to visit China and are looking for an exciting itinerary of sightseeing, Chengdu should be at the top of your list.

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.

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