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

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Ready to pack for Guangzhou, China? If you're planning to go to Guangzhou, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Guangzhou, China

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

What to wear/what to pack for Guangzhou, China

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

In January, Guangzhou is chilly. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (high 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Guangzhou, with several of the days of the month having rain. In January, 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.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: 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 belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Guangzhou. 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.

Comfort + Essentials
  • 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to pick the right type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

February

If you vacation in Guangzhou during February, you are likely to find 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 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% 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

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

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional 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 airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Guangzhou. 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
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges 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

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

March

March in this region is balmy. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 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 airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Guangzhou. 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.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to find the correct type. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

April in Guangzhou is warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly 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 Guangzhou. 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
  • 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • 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. Make sure to find the right type. Many adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

May

In May, Guangzhou is hot. 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 low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Guangzhou, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In May, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

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 yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Guangzhou. 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to get the right type. A lot of adapters available 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 areas.

  • Travel 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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

June in Guangzhou can be very hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to 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.

  • 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 Guangzhou. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to 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 airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to find the right type. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers 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 areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

In July, Guangzhou can be sweltering. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Guangzhou, with more than half of the days of the month having rain. In July, 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.

  • 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 Guangzhou. 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 a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

August

If you are traveling to Guangzhou in August, you will notice that it is constantly hot and somewhat stormy. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to get the correct kind. Many adapters available 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 countries.

  • 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 penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

September

September in this region is extremely hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added 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 airlines always losing things nowadays, 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 Guangzhou. 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.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you pick the necessary kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. 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 amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

October

If you visit Guangzhou during October, you will probably find that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Guangzhou. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Ensure that you choose the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

November in Guangzhou is a perfect temperature. 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more 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.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: 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 Guangzhou. 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
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

December

December is mild. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

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.

  • 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.

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Guangzhou. 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 things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials
  • 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel adapter

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

What to do in Guangzhou, China

Guangzhou, one of the largest cities in China, is a popular tourist destination due to its rich history, diverse culture, and modern urban development. The city has a lot to offer visitors, from ancient temples to modern skyscrapers, and everything in between. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Guangzhou that you must visit:

1. The Canton Tower – The Canton Tower is the tallest structure in Guangzhou, and one of the tallest towers in the world. Visitors can take the elevator to the observation deck to enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline.

2. Chen Clan Ancestral Hall – Known as the Chen Clan Academy, this historic building was originally built in the 19th century as a place for the Chen family to study for the civil service exams. Nowadays, it acts as a museum for art and cultural exhibitions.

3. Temple of the Six Banyan Trees – This ancient temple has a history dating back over 1,500 years. Its most striking feature is the impressive pagoda, which stands at over 55 meters tall.

4. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall – This grand hall was built in memory of Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of modern China. The hall features exhibitions about Sun Yat-sen’s life and achievements, as well as performances of traditional Chinese art forms.

5. Shamian Island – Shamian is a small island in the heart of Guangzhou that was once a French and British concession. The island boasts 19th-century colonial architecture, tranquil parks, and a buzzing street market.

6. Guangzhou Opera House – Designed by world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid, the Guangzhou Opera House is one of China’s most modern and spectacular concert venues. The building’s unique curvaceous design is a sight to behold.

7. Pearl River Night Cruise – This scenic cruise along the Pearl River is a must for anyone visiting Guangzhou. The nighttime views of the city, illuminated by thousands of lights, are a sight to behold.

8. Guangdong Museum – The Guangdong Museum is one of China’s most prestigious museums, featuring a collection of over 160,000 artifacts that showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage.

9. Chimelong Safari Park – Located on the outskirts of Guangzhou, the Chimelong Safari Park is one of the largest animal parks in China. Visitors can ride through the park in safari jeeps and see a variety of wild animals up close.

10. Baiyun Mountain Scenic Area – This scenic mountain range on the edge of Guangzhou boasts a network of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the city skyline and the surrounding landscape.

In conclusion, Guangzhou is a city that never fails to impress visitors with its fascinating history, rich culture, and modern development. With so much to see and do, it’s easy to understand why it’s become such a popular tourist destination. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient temples or indulging in modern entertainment, Guangzhou has something for everyone.

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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