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

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

Contents

When to go to Xining, China

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

What to wear/what to pack for Xining, China

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January in Xining can be extremely cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C). With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 20% to 30% 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 Xining. 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 belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Ensure that you pick the right type. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. 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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the stunning Dongguan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Xining tourism authority.

If you see the Tibetan Medicine Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in Xining is brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C). With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 20% to 30% 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 Xining. 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 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you get the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile 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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the stunning Dongguan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Xining tourism authority.

If you see the Tibetan Medicine Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March is pretty cool. Temperatures average in the 40s 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.

  • 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xining. 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

    A versatile choice 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 step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Ensure that you choose the correct type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics 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 want to see the stunning Dongguan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Xining tourism authority.

If you see the Tibetan Medicine Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you vacation in Xining during April, you might see that it is cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 20 and 30% 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 Xining. 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 belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to pick the right kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the stunning Dongguan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Xining tourism authority.

If you see the Tibetan Medicine Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

If you visit Xining during May, you may see that it can be chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% 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 a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xining. 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 constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to choose the right type. Many adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck 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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the stunning Dongguan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Xining tourism authority.

If you see the Tibetan Medicine Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you visit Xining during June, you may notice that it is balmy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 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 30 and 40% 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 Xining. 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 things nowadays, 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect 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.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the stunning Dongguan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Xining tourism authority.

If you see the Tibetan Medicine Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you go to Xining in July, you will notice that it is mild. Daytime temperatures are 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you find the right type. The vast majority of adapters available online 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 should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the stunning Dongguan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Xining tourism authority.

If you see the Tibetan Medicine Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in Xining 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xining. 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 stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you get the necessary kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • 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 penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the stunning Dongguan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Xining tourism authority.

If you see the Tibetan Medicine Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September here is relatively cool. Temperatures average in the low 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 airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find 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 Xining. 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you find the necessary type. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the stunning Dongguan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Xining tourism authority.

If you see the Tibetan Medicine Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Xining is chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 40% to 50% 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 Xining. 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 frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • 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 choose the necessary kind. Most adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the stunning Dongguan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Xining tourism authority.

If you see the Tibetan Medicine Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in this region is brisk. Temperatures average in the low 40s 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 always losing luggage nowadays, 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 Xining. 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 peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply 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 countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the stunning Dongguan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Xining tourism authority.

If you see the Tibetan Medicine Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Xining is frosty. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C). With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 30% to 40% 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.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find 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 Xining. 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

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you want to see the stunning Dongguan Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter the mosque; it is best to check with the Xining tourism authority.

If you see the Tibetan Medicine Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Xining, China

Situated in the northern part of the Qinghai province, Xining is a city of immense beauty and history, with a rich cultural heritage that beckons tourists from far and wide. Being the capital city of the Qinghai province, Xining has a lot to offer in terms of history, natural scenery, and cultural experiences. Here are some top tourist attractions in Xining, China.

Kumbum Monastery

Kumbum Monastery is a sacred Buddhist temple that was built in the 16th century, and it is one of the most beautiful temples in the world. Located in the Ta'er Monastery, which is about 25 kilometers from the city center, it is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The interiors of the monastery are adorned with intricate murals, sculptures, and Tibetan artifacts, and the temple is home to over 1,200 monks.

Dongguan Mosque

Dongguan Mosque is an iconic Islamic temple that attracts both locals and tourists. Built-in the 14th century, this unique building is famous for its magnificent Ming Dynasty architecture, and it is one of the most beautiful mosques in China. The mosque has several halls and a unique prayer room with a capacity of 3,000 people. Visitors can also explore the mosque's surrounding gardens and learn about Islamic culture and traditions.

Qinghai Lake

Known for its stunning natural scenery, Qinghai Lake is one of the largest saltwater lakes in China. With a circumference of over 360 kilometers, it is the perfect destination for nature lovers, photographers, and bird watchers. The lake's clear waters and surrounding mountains provide breathtaking views of the natural environment. Tourists can enjoy boat rides, fishing, and bird watching along the lake's shores.

Qinghai Provincial Museum

The Qinghai Provincial Museum is a mesmerizing destination for history buffs. The museum houses a vast collection of historical artifacts from the ancient Silk Road, with exhibits from the Han and Tang dynasties, and Qinghai province’s rich cultural heritage. It's a treasure trove of artifacts that includes paintings, ceramics, coins, and sculptures that tell the history of the region.

Dapeilin Temple (Great Mosque)

Dapeilin Temple is an impressive mosque that was built in the 14th century, during the Ming Dynasty. The mosque's magnificent architecture and its historical significance make it an ideal destination for tourists seeking to explore Chinese Islamic heritage. The temple's courtyard is filled with ancient trees, including cypress trees dating back to 800 years ago.

In conclusion, Xining is a city of beauty, rich cultural heritage, and natural wonders. From ancient temples to natural parks and art galleries, Xining is a tourist's paradise. Anyone visiting Xining should make a point to visit the Kumbum Monastery, Dapeilin Temple, Qinghai Lake, Dongguan Mosque, and Qinghai Provincial Museum. These top tourist attractions in Xining will offer you unforgettable experiences and memories to last a lifetime.

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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