Dalian, 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 Dalian, China? If you're planning to go to Dalian, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Dalian, China

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

What to wear/what to pack for Dalian, China

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

If you are traveling to Dalian in January, you will notice that it is frosty. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits below 0 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 Dalian. 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 luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

February

If you are traveling to Dalian in February, you will notice that it can be extremely cold. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dalian. 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 added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent 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. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to pick the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

March in Dalian is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day.

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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dalian. 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 some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • 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 frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to get the right type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

April

If you are traveling to Dalian in April, you will notice that it is relatively cool. Daytime temperatures are in the 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dalian. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to choose the right type. Most adapters currently sold 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.

  • 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 top rated pillow is this one

May

If you vacation in Dalian during May, you will probably notice that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day.

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 frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added 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 Dalian. 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to get the necessary kind. Most adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

June is warm. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day.

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 additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dalian. 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 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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. It's important that you find the right kind. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

July

If you visit Dalian during July, you are likely to find that it is warm. 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 (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day.

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 Dalian. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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 frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to find the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

August

August in this region is warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.

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

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dalian. 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 always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • 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

September

September in Dalian is warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) to low 70s F (low 20s 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door 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 Dalian. 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 always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

October

If you visit Dalian during October, you might find that it is cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day.

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 added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dalian. 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 going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to pick the necessary type. Many adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

November

If you vacation in Dalian during November, you are likely to see that it is cold. Temperatures tend to hover around the 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day.

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 more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dalian. 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 always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to pick the correct type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

December

December in this region can be extremely cold. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day.

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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Dalian. 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 some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to choose the right kind. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

What to do in Dalian, China

Dalian is a beautiful coastal city in Liaoning province, China, that boasts of its splendid natural scenery, historical and cultural heritage, modern architectural wonders, and diverse culinary options. Indeed, the city serves as a favorite travel destination for both domestic and international visitors, who are drawn to its many attractions. In this article, we highlight some of the top tourist attractions in Dalian that are worth visiting.

1. Dalian Zhongshan Square- This is a beautiful public square located in the heart of Dalian that provides a glimpse of Dalian's history and culture. The square is home to several buildings that reflect the city's colonial past, including the Dalian Guesthouse, the Dalian Municipal Government Building, and the Dalian Culture Center.

2. Xinghai Square- This square is located on the coast of the Xinghai Bay and provides a scenic view of the ocean. It is the largest city square in Asia and contains several attractions, including the Xinghai Concert Hall, the Xinghai Beach Park, and the Xinghai Bay Bridge.

3. Laohutan Ocean Park- This is a popular theme park that showcases marine animals like whales, dolphins, and seals. The park also has a tropical rainforest and a water park that offers exciting rides for families and children.

4. Tiger Beach- The beach is located in the northern part of Dalian and is a perfect destination for sunbathing and swimming. It also has a viewing platform that provides a breathtaking view of the ocean.

5. Dalian Discoveryland Theme Park- This is a large amusement park that caters to all ages. It has more than 40 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and themed zones inspired by popular cartoon characters.

6. Lushun Museum- Located in Lushunkou District, the museum exhibits the history of the Lushun Port and its significance in the Sino-Japanese War. Visitors can explore the museum's exhibits that showcase artwork, war relics, and cultural artifacts.

7. Dalian Forest Zoo- This is a large zoo home to many animals like pandas, tigers, and elephants. The zoo also has a botanical garden that houses many unique plant species.

8. Dalian Jinshitan National Resort- This scenic location is a popular destination for outdoor activities like camping, fishing, and surfing. The resort also has several hot springs that provide a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

In conclusion, Dalian offers a plethora of tourist attractions that cater to all interests, from history and culture to nature and entertainment. Visitors to Dalian are guaranteed an unforgettable experience, and it is undoubtedly one of the best destinations to visit in China.

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: Northern Maranhão, Maranhão, Brazil, Eden Valley, England, United Kingdom, Østfold, Norway, Altavas, Philippines, Mungkid, Indonesia, Wellsville, West Virginia, United States of America, Laval, Quebec, Canada, Göygöl National Park, Azerbaijan, Peterborough, England, United Kingdom, Airlie Beach, Queensland, Australia, and Bhongir, India.