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

Contents

When to go to Matsu, Taiwan

Based on the climate and weather in Matsu, Taiwan, the best time to go is October. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Matsu, Taiwan

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Matsu, Taiwan by month

January

January is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Taiwan 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsu. 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 large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave 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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available online 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 places.

February

If you vacation in Matsu during February, you will probably notice that it is brisk. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Taiwan 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 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 little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsu. 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 pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy 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 is sufficent for most areas.

March

If you visit Matsu during March, you are likely to notice 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 low 50s F (single digits C). 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, Taiwan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsu. 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 and B. Be sure to get the necessary kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

April

April in Matsu is crisp. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) to 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsu. 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 recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • 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 step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you pick the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold 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 be sufficient for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

May in this region is balmy and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day. It rains 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Taiwan 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsu. 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 these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow 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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the necessary kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

June

If you vacation in Matsu during June, you may see 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 70s F (low 20s C). 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, Taiwan 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 belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsu. 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 luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the correct type. Most adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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 neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

July

If you vacation in Matsu during July, you may find that it is extremely hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things 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 belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsu. 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

August

Traveling to Matsu in August, you will notice that it is really hot. Expect it to rain sometimes. 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, Taiwan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsu. 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 bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the right type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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 neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

September

If you vacation in Matsu during September, you might notice that it is hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Taiwan 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsu. 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 neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you get the right kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • 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

October

October is warm and dry with little rain. 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, Taiwan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsu. 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

November

November in Matsu is mild and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsu. 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 and B. Check that you find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

December

December in this region is chilly and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Matsu. 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

  • 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 adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you find the right kind. Many adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

What to do in Matsu, Taiwan

Matsu, a cluster of small islands in Taiwan, is known for its stunning natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural attractions. From breathtaking beaches to ancient temples, there is something for everyone on this picturesque archipelago. Here are the top tourist attractions in Matsu:

1. Beigan Island: Beigan Island is one of the most beautiful islands in Matsu, with a breathtaking coastline, crystal clear waters, and white sandy beaches. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the shore, enjoy swimming or simply relax in the scenic surroundings.

2. Dahan Island: Dahan Island is known for its striking natural beauty, with towering cliffs, rugged coastlines, and lush vegetation. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the sea from the island's lighthouse, which is one of the most photographed landmarks on Matsu.

3. Iron Fortress: The Iron Fortress, also known as the Juguang Tower, is a historic fortification built in the 19th century to defend against pirates. Today, it's a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins and learn about the fort's fascinating history.

4. Nangan Island: Nangan Island is the largest island in Matsu, with a vibrant cultural scene, delicious seafood, and numerous tourist attractions. Highlights include the Fu Cheng Kung Temple, the Matsu Folk Culture Museum, and the Matsu Battlefield Memorial Park.

5. Matsu Tunnels: The Matsu tunnels, built in the 1960s, are a network of underground passages that were used as military bunkers during the Cold War. Visitors can explore the tunnels and learn more about this fascinating chapter in Matsu's history.

6. Beihai Tunnel: Beihai Tunnel is a spectacular natural wonder, formed over millions of years by the forces of wind and water. Visitors can take a boat ride through the narrow channel and marvel at the towering cliffs and rock formations.

7. Juguang Tower: Juguang Tower is a historic lighthouse built in the 19th century to guide ships through the treacherous waters around Matsu. Today, it's a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the sea.

In conclusion, Matsu offers some of the most stunning natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural attractions in Taiwan. Visitors can spend days exploring the islands and experiencing the unique charm of this scenic archipelago.

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: Santa Fe, Argentina, Chajari, Argentina, Milan, Michigan, United States of America, Totnes, England, United Kingdom, Middle Florida, Florida, United States of America, Bento Gonçalves, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, Cobden, Illinois, United States of America, Glenrowan, Victoria, Australia, Perm, Russia, Karoo National Park, South Africa, and Queenstown, South Africa.