South-central China, China: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for South-central China, China? If you're planning to go to South-central China, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to South-central China, China

Based on the climate and weather in South-central China, China, the best time to go is April. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for South-central China, China

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for South-central China, China by month

January

If you are traveling to South-central China in January, you will notice that it is brisk. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the high 40s 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 belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in South-central 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

  • 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 neck pillow

    A great choice is 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. Ensure that you find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

February

February in South-central China is brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in South-central 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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. Take care to get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great 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

March

If you visit South-central China during March, you might see that it is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (mid 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 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in South-central 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 bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to get the right kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • 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 surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

April

April in South-central China 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, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in South-central 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 bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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. Be sure to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

May

In May, South-central China is warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C). This is also a rainy time for South-central 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 South-central 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 airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can 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.

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

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

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

June

If you visit South-central China during June, you will probably see that it is constantly hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C). 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.

  • 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 South-central 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 luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Ensure that you pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

July

July for South-central China is really hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 90s 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.

  • 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 stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in South-central 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 bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to find the right kind. Many adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • 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

August

If you visit South-central China during August, you might notice that it is constantly hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (low 30s 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, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: 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 South-central 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to choose the correct type. Most adapters that you can buy 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 places.

  • 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

September

If you are traveling to South-central China in September, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in South-central 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you choose the right type. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • 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

October

October in South-central China is mild. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 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 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 South-central 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 frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to find the right type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers 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.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges 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

November

If you visit South-central China during November, you may find that it can be chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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 South-central 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 frequently 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to get the correct type. Most adapters available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

December

December in South-central China is cold. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in South-central 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 frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • 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

What to do in South-central China, China

South-central China is home to some of the country's most fascinating historical and cultural landmarks, as well as breathtaking natural landscapes. The region is rich in tradition and boasts some of the most impressive examples of ancient architecture and engineering in China. Here are the top tourist attractions in South-central China, China.

1. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park located in the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in China. The park is famous for its stunning sandstone pillars, unique karst formations, and lush foliage. The most famous landmarks are the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain and the world's longest and highest glass bridge. Additionally, visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and taking a cable car ride.

2. Mount Huashan

Mount Huashan located in Shaanxi province is a mountainous area that is home to some of the most stunning scenes of natural beauty. The mountain's famous plank walk and narrow paths carved into the cliff's edge make it a challenging but memorable hike. Visitors can enjoy the stunning scenery accompanied by the sound of the gurgling mountain streams.

3. Wudang Mountains

Located in Hubei Province, Wudang Mountains is a picturesque area that is home to the iconic Wudang Taoist Temple. The temple is renowned for being the birthplace of Tai Chi martial arts and Taoism. Its aesthetic value is enhanced by the natural landscapes that enclose the temple on all sides.

4. The Yellow Mountains

The Yellow Mountains, also known as Huangshan, are located in Anhui province, famous for its otherworldly scenery consisting of granite peaks covered in white mist. Visitors have the opportunity to hike, admire the stunning vistas, and take in the spectacular sunrise and sunset views. The Yellow Mountains' unique natural geology has inspired many Chinese artists to create some of the nation's most exquisite paintings.

5. Mount Emei

Mount Emei located in Sichuan Province, is another UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts impressive serene beauty. The area is dominated by Mount Emei, which features the highest statue of the Buddha in the world. Visitors may explore the region's temples and discover its cultural significance, along ancient stone-lined paths that have been used for centuries.

6. Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park

Jiuzhaigou Valley Natural Park, located in Sichuan Province, is a nature reserve park that features spectacular scenery, glistening lakes, waterfalls, and forests. Visitors can enjoy activities such as trekking, hiking, and camping. The park covers over 180,000 acres and is home to an array of endangered species.

In conclusion, South-central China boasts unique and awe-inspiring landscapes steeped in history and culture. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, Mount Huashan, Wudang Mountain, The Yellow Mountains, Mount Emei, and Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park are some of the top tourist’s spots in the region. A visit to these historical and cultural landmarks is an unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into China's incredible past and present.

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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