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

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

Contents

When to go to Southwest China, China

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

What to wear/what to pack for Southwest China, China

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January in this region is very cold. Temperatures average in the 30s F (single digits C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southwest 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 excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

February

February in Southwest China is frigid. 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.

  • 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southwest 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 always losing bags 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 penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • 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 top rated pillow is this one

March

March in Southwest China is cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southwest 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 these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to choose the right kind. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

April

April in Southwest China is pretty cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southwest 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 airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

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 large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to find the right kind. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

May

May in Southwest China is relatively cool. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • 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 Southwest 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours 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 pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

June in Southwest China is crisp. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 10s C) to low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southwest 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

July

July in Southwest China is balmy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 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 little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: 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 Southwest 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you get the right type. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

August

August in Southwest China is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southwest 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

  • 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. Take care to find the right kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.

  • 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

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

September

If you go to Southwest China in September, you will notice that it is cool. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southwest 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 repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

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

  • 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

October

If you vacation in Southwest China during October, you will probably notice that it can be brisk. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: 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 Southwest 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 neck support pillow

    What we like 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, C and I. Take care to find the correct type. Most adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. 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 excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

November

If you are traveling to Southwest China in November, you will notice that it can be brisk. Daytime temperatures are in the low 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers 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 locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

If you go to Southwest China in December, you will notice that it is frigid. Daytime temperatures are in the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Southwest 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 things.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you find the necessary kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert 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 huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in Southwest China, China

Southwest China is a diverse region of China with stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cities. It’s a great place where you can experience different cultures, tastes, and traditions of China. Some of the top tourist attractions in Southwest China are listed below.

1. The Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, Chengdu: Chengdu has always been one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southwest China due to its laid-back lifestyle, spicy cuisine, and the Giant Pandas. The research base has over 80 pandas, and visitors can get up close to these adorable creatures and watch them interact with each other.

2. Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park: It is one of China’s most breathtaking natural landscapes, and it’s located in Sichuan Province. The park is filled with crystal-clear waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and colorful forests. It is a perfect place for hiking, mountaineering, camping, and photography.

3. Leshan Giant Buddha: Leshan Giant Buddha is the largest Buddha statue in the world, and it’s located in Leshan City, Sichuan Province. It stands 71 meters tall and is carved out of a cliff face facing the river. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular spiritual shrine for Buddhists.

4. Tiger Leaping Gorge: Located in Yunnan Province, Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the deepest gorges in the world. The gorge is known for its spectacular scenery, crystal-clear water, and challenging hiking trails. It’s a great place for adventure lovers who seek natural beauty and adrenaline rush.

5. Stone Forest, Kunming: The Stone Forest is a spectacular limestone formation that is over 270 million years old. It’s located in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province, and is a natural wonder that leaves visitors in awe. The forest is popular among hikers, rock climbers, and nature lovers.

6. Shangri-La, Yunnan: Shangri-La is known for its stunning natural landscapes, ancient Tibetan culture, and relaxed vibe. The town is located in the northwest of Yunnan Province, and it’s surrounded by snow-capped mountains, highland lakes, and forests. It’s a perfect place to explore Tibetan culture and experience the unique lifestyle of the locals.

In conclusion, Southwest China has a lot to offer because of its diverse natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cities. The above-listed tourist attractions are some of the must-visit places if you plan to visit this region. Make sure to pack your bags and explore the hidden gems of Southwest China.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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