Great Wall of China, China: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Great Wall of China, China? If you're planning to go to Great Wall of China, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Great Wall of China, China

Based on the climate and weather in Great Wall of China, China, the best time to go is May. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Great Wall of China, China

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Great Wall of China, China by month

January

January in Great Wall of China is frigid. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the single digits F (10+ below zero 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 Great Wall of China. 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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 pick the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Great Wall Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in Great Wall of China is freezing. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 10s 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 Great Wall of China. 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 repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to find the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

If you go to the Great Wall Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March here is cold. Temperatures average in the low 50s 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little 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 Great Wall of China. 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 things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: 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 amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters for sale now 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 be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Great Wall Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Great Wall of China is chilly and dry with little rain. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Great Wall of China. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to get the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. 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 excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Great Wall Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May is warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.

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 stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Great Wall of China. 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 airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Great Wall Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June for Great Wall of China is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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 Great Wall of China. 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 nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you find the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Great Wall Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

Traveling to Great Wall of China in July, you will notice that it is constantly hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s 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 Great Wall of China. 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 belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice 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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to choose the right kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

If you go to the Great Wall Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

In August, Great Wall of China is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) and occasionally jump into the low 90s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the 60s F (high 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Great Wall of China, with several of the days of the month having rain.

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 Great Wall of China. 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 things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: 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 excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite 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 get the right type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

If you go to the Great Wall Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September is warm and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

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 Great Wall of China. 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 repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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. Take care to choose the right type. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you go to the Great Wall Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you vacation in Great Wall of China during October, you are likely to notice that it is relatively cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Great Wall of China. 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 airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

If you go to the Great Wall Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Great Wall of China can be very chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 20s 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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 Great Wall of China. 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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Great Wall Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Great Wall of China can be extremely cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero 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 Great Wall of China. 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 belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: 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 huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

If you go to the Great Wall Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Great Wall of China, China

The Great Wall of China, one of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the world, is a must-visit destination for every traveler. Spanning over 13,000 miles across China, the wall’s main purpose was to protect the Chinese empire from invaders. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction that draws millions of visitors each year. Here are some of the top tourist attractions at the Great Wall of China:

1. Badaling Great Wall

Located just an hour’s drive from Beijing, the Badaling Great Wall is the most visited section of the wall. It is the most well-restored part of the wall and is accessible to people of all ages and capabilities. This section is also equipped with all the modern facilities such as cable cars, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

2. Mutianyu Great Wall

The Mutianyu Great Wall is less crowded than the Badaling section and is popular among tourists who want to experience an authentic Great Wall experience. The section has been restored to its original form, and visitors can enjoy the brick walls and watchtowers. The Mutianyu section also has a toboggan ride and a cable car to make the journey easier.

3. Jinshanling Great Wall

Jinshanling is a section of the wall that has not been fully restored, and visitors can see the original bricks and watchtowers. It is a challenging hike, but the views from the top are worth it. It is also less crowded than the other sections, and visitors can enjoy a peaceful, calm environment.

4. Simatai Great Wall

Simatai is another section of the wall that has not been fully restored. It is popular among tourists who want to experience a more natural, unspoiled environment. Visitors can climb to the top and explore the watchtowers, and there is also a night tour available that allows visitors to see the wall under the starry sky.

5. Juyongguan Great Wall

The Juyongguan Great Wall is located about 37 miles northwest of Beijing and was once an important gateway to Beijing. It is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. Visitors can also take a cable car to the top and explore the watchtowers and scenic vistas.

In conclusion, the Great Wall of China is a remarkable destination that offers visitors stunning views, rich history, and culture. With so many sections to choose from, visitors can choose the part that suits their preferences and interests. Whether it’s exploring the well-restored sections or experiencing the raw, natural beauty of the wall, the Great Wall of China is sure to leave a lasting impression on every traveler.

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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