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
- Important essentials for Xinjiang
- Activities for Xinjiang
- Xinjiang in January: weather and what to pack
- Xinjiang in February: weather and what to pack
- Xinjiang in March: weather and what to pack
- Xinjiang in April: weather and what to pack
- Xinjiang in May: weather and what to pack
- Xinjiang in June: weather and what to pack
- Xinjiang in July: weather and what to pack
- Xinjiang in August: weather and what to pack
- Xinjiang in September: weather and what to pack
- Xinjiang in October: weather and what to pack
- Xinjiang in November: weather and what to pack
- Xinjiang in December: weather and what to pack
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
Coveralls
We like:
Insulated boots
The best value
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
thisFleece for under jacket
Thick pajamas
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Heated gloves
Goggles for eye protection
our pickThermal undergarments
Our choice is:
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestTravel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Neck warmer/cold weather face mask
Lip balm
Our pick: this
Night cap
It's important to wear a cap at night here like this
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
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.
China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Insulated ice boots
We use:
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Fleece inner layer
Lip balm
The best pick: this one
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Thermal undergarments
We suggest:
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteHeavy sweaters
Pajamas
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
Extreme cold weather gloves
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
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.
China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Gloves
Warm pants or jeans
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice:
thisSweaters
Heavy socks
Such as:
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.Lip balm
Our favorite option: this
Heavy jacket
Cold weather footwear
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
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.
China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Fleece
Warm pants or jeans
Jacket or coat
Light gloves or mittens
Extra socks
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
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.
China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Sandals
Light skirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
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.
China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisSkirts
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
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.
China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Skirts
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against the sun:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also filters harmful contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
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.
China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also removes contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Safety + Security
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.
China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
Sandals
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
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.
China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this one
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Light gloves or mittens
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
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.
China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Thermal undergarments
Our favorites:
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of our favorites:
Extreme cold weather gloves
Heavy sweaters
Fleece inner layer
Insulated ice boots
We use:
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Pajamas
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Lip balm
The best choice: here
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Scarf/neck warmer
our favorite
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
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.
China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Thick pajamas
Heated gloves
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestNeck warmer/cold weather mask
Fleece for under jacket
Insulated water bottle
Our fave:
thisTravel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Night cap
It's important to wear a head warmer at night here like this
Coveralls
We love:
Insulated boots
The best value
Lip balm
Our pick: this
Goggles for eye protection
our pickThermal undergarments
We love:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
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.
China has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
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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