Xi'an, China: 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 Xi'an, China? If you're planning to go to Xi'an, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Xi'an, China

Based on the climate and weather in Xi'an, China, the best time to go is May. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Xi'an, China

Already know when you're traveling?

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

What to wear/what to pack for Xi'an, China by month

January

January for Xi'an is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the high 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xi'an. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you get the right type. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the must-see Grand Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Xi'an tourism authority.

If you go to Forest of Steles, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

Traveling to Xi'an in February, you will notice that it is cold. Daytime temperatures 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.

  • 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xi'an. 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 additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to pick the correct type. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the must-see Grand Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Xi'an tourism authority.

If you go to Forest of Steles, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

If you visit Xi'an during March, you may see that it is cold. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% 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.

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xi'an. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to find the right kind. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the must-see Grand Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Xi'an tourism authority.

If you go to Forest of Steles, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you vacation in Xi'an during April, you might notice that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xi'an. 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 luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support 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. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the must-see Grand Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Xi'an tourism authority.

If you go to Forest of Steles, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

May in Xi'an is a perfect temperature. 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, 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 staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xi'an. 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 belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to get the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the must-see Grand Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Xi'an tourism authority.

If you go to Forest of Steles, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you vacation in Xi'an during June, you might see that it is constantly hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xi'an. 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Room protection door lock

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you get the right kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices 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

  • Travel neck support 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 excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the must-see Grand Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Xi'an tourism authority.

If you go to Forest of Steles, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July in Xi'an is constantly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xi'an. 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 penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold 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 be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the must-see Grand Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Xi'an tourism authority.

If you go to Forest of Steles, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

August in Xi'an is pretty consistently hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, 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 always losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xi'an. 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 favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to choose the right kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate 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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the must-see Grand Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Xi'an tourism authority.

If you go to Forest of Steles, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you go to Xi'an in September, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Daytime temperatures are in the 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xi'an. 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.

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • 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 careful to pick the correct type. The majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours 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 huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the must-see Grand Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Xi'an tourism authority.

If you go to Forest of Steles, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

If you are traveling to Xi'an in October, you will notice that it is chilly. Daytime temperatures are in the 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xi'an. 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 added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is 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, C and I. Check that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the must-see Grand Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Xi'an tourism authority.

If you go to Forest of Steles, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November here is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the low 50s F (low 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently 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

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you get the correct kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • 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 excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the must-see Grand Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Xi'an tourism authority.

If you go to Forest of Steles, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

December in Xi'an is pretty cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C). With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.

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 Xi'an. 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, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like 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. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you plan to check out the must-see Grand Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the building; it is best to check with the Xi'an tourism authority.

If you go to Forest of Steles, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Xi'an, China

Xi'an, located in the Shaanxi province of China, is a city rich in history and culture. As the capital of the ancient Tang dynasty, it is home to many of China's most significant historical artifacts and landmarks. From the Terracotta Army to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, there are many fascinating and essential tourist attractions to visit in Xi'an.

Here are the top tourist attractions to see when visiting Xi'an:

1. Terracotta Army: The Terracotta Army is one of the most significant archaeological finds in history. Discovered in 1974, this army of over 8,000 terracotta soldiers, horses, and chariots was built to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. Visitors can explore the pits and see the astonishing statues up close.

2. Ancient City Wall: Intact for over 1,300 years, the Xi'an's ancient City Wall remains a remarkable feat of engineering. Visitors can walk along the top of the wall, which offers unique views of the surrounding area. The wall is also beautifully lit up at night.

3. Muslim Quarter: Located in the heart of Xi'an, the Muslim Quarter is an immersive cultural experience. Known for its food stalls and historic architecture, visitors can enjoy a variety of street food and visit markets and shops selling traditional goods.

4. Shaanxi History Museum: The Shaanxi History Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in Chinese history. The museum features over 370,000 artifacts and provides a comprehensive overview of China's history.

5. Big Wild Goose Pagoda: This seven-story pagoda was built over 1,300 years ago to house Buddhist scriptures that were brought to China from India by the monk Xuanzang. Visitors can climb to the top of the pagoda for an excellent view of the city.

6. Huaqing Palace: Nestled at the bottom of Mount Li, the Huaqing Palace served as a retreat for emperors and their consorts. Visitors can explore the palace's gardens, hot springs, and scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

7. Bell and Drum Towers: The Bell and Drum Towers were built during the Ming dynasty to mark the time of day. Visitors can see the giant bells and drums up close, as well as enjoy the panoramic views of the city from the top of the towers.

Xi'an is a city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors who take time to explore its many attractions will undoubtedly come away with a deep appreciation of China's rich and complex past.

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: Elk Grove Village, Illinois, United States of America, Neah Bay, Washington, United States of America, Pocola, Oklahoma, United States of America, Gela, Italy, Tankavaara, Finland, Trenton, Ontario, Canada, Maryborough, Victoria, Australia, Abease, Ghana, Muotkatunturit Wilderness Area, Finland, Pembroke Pines, Florida, United States of America, and Cagayan, Philippines.