Xinjiang, China: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

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

Contents

When to go to Xinjiang, China

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

What to wear/what to pack for Xinjiang, China

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

January in Xinjiang is beyond freezing. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the single digits below 0 F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xinjiang. 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.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: 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

  • 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. Be careful to get the right type. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

February

February in Xinjiang can be very chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 10s F (10+ below zero C), with a few days below 0 F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • 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.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xinjiang. 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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large 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 necessary kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

March

March for Xinjiang is cool. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xinjiang. 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 you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you pick the necessary kind. Many adapters currently available 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 is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • 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

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

April

If you are traveling to Xinjiang in April, you will notice that it is mild and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

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

  • Room protection door lock

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

May

May is a perfect temperature and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xinjiang. 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.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added 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

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

June

If you vacation in Xinjiang during June, you may notice that it is extremely warm and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xinjiang. 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 your room with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

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. It's important that you find the right type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust 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

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

July

If you are traveling to Xinjiang in July, you will notice that it is extremely warm and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xinjiang. 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.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to find the necessary kind. Most adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

August

If you vacation in Xinjiang during August, you will probably see that it is hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Room protection door lock

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

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xinjiang. 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 always losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to choose the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

September

If you vacation in Xinjiang during September, you might find that it is a perfect temperature and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xinjiang. 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 staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Ensure that you get the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option 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 huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

October

If you vacation in Xinjiang during October, you are likely to notice that it can be chilly. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

  • 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 Xinjiang. 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.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more 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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you pick the right kind. Most adapters available online are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

November

November in Xinjiang can be very chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    China has some specific safety 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 airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xinjiang. 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 you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you choose the right kind. A lot of adapters available online 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 should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

December

If you are traveling to Xinjiang in December, you will notice that it is very cold. Daytime temperatures are in the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • 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.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Xinjiang. 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

  • 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 voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

What to do in Xinjiang, China

Xinjiang, located in the northwest of China, is an autonomous region known for its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cultures and unique history. With a wealth of tourist attractions to explore, it is no wonder that tourism in the region has seen a significant increase in recent years. From ancient cities to stunning natural scenery, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Xinjiang.

1. Heavenly Lake (Tianchi)

Located in the eastern Tianshan Mountains, Heavenly Lake is a stunning alpine lake that is considered one of the most beautiful in China. Its crystal-clear waters are surrounded by lush green forests and snow-capped mountains, creating a picturesque scene that draws in visitors from around the world.

2. Karez Irrigation System

The Karez Irrigation System is an ancient underground irrigation system unique to Xinjiang. Dating back more than 2,000 years, the system has played a crucial role in the development of the region's agriculture and is considered a masterpiece of ancient Chinese engineering.

3. Id Kah Mosque

The Id Kah Mosque is the largest mosque in Xinjiang and is located in the heart of the old town of Kashgar. Built in the mid-15th century, the mosque features traditional Uyghur architecture and is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the Islamic culture of the region.

4. Gaochang Ancient City

Gaochang Ancient City is a ruined city that was once an important hub on the Silk Road. Dating back more than 1,500 years, the city was a center of trade and religious exchange between China and the West. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of the city and learn about its rich history.

5. Flaming Mountains

The Flaming Mountains are a famous landmark in Xinjiang and are often described as the hottest place in China. The mountains are composed of barren, red sandstone that glows in the sunlight and create a stunning contrast against the surrounding greenery.

6. Karakul Lake

Karakul Lake is a high-altitude lake located on the Pamir Plateau in Xinjiang. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the lake is a popular spot for trekking and camping, and offers visitors stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

7. Turpan Grape Valley

The Turpan Grape Valley is a lush oasis located in the heart of the Turpan Depression. Famous for its delicious grapes, the valley is also home to ancient ruins, caves and temples that date back more than 2,000 years.

Xinjiang is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural heritage and history, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler. Whether you are interested in exploring ancient ruins, trekking through stunning landscapes or immersing yourself in the rich culture of the region, Xinjiang has something to offer everyone.

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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