Xinjiang, 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 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
Traveling to Xinjiang in January, you will notice that it can be bitter cold. Daytime temperatures are in the high 20s F (single digits below 0 C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece for under jacket
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Goggles for eye protection
our pickNeck gaiter/ski mask
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestInsulated boots
The best value
Night cap
It's a good idea to wear a cap at night in this climate like this
Thermal undergarments
We suggest:
Thick pajamas
Lip balm
Our pick: this one
Coveralls
We like:
Heated gloves
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice:
thisA rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Given current world events, China has travel 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 huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Ensure that you pick the correct type. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
February
February in Xinjiang can be brisk. 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
Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteExtreme weather jacket shell
These are a great value:
Lip balm
The best option: this one
Thermal undergarments
Our picks:
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Pajamas
Fleece for under jacket
Extreme cold weather gloves
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need boots and other footwear,
travel footwear storage is important.Sweaters
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best values:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Safety + Security
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.
Anti-theft backpack
For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
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.
Given current world events, China has travel 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. Be sure to find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices 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
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
March
March in this region can be chilly. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Gloves
Heavy jacket
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
thisLip balm
Our pick is: here
Sweaters
Warm pants or jeans
Heavy socks
Such as:
Travel footwear storage
You will need multiple footwear options, so consider
travel footwear storage.
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
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.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
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.
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, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Given current world events, China has travel 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 huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to find the necessary type. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
April
April in Xinjiang is mild and dry with little rain. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this one
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
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.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are just 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 areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
May
If you are traveling to Xinjiang in May, you will notice that it is warm and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Extra socks
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sunscreen lotion
Light skirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you 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.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in 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.
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.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money 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 choose the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.
June
June in this region is extremely warm and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against UV rays:
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Skirts
Bug repellent
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-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 take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
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 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.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Given current world events, China has travel 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. Be careful to find the correct type. Many adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
July
If you visit Xinjiang during July, you might see that it is extremely warm and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against skin damage:
Sunglasses
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
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.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more peace of mind, 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 you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
August
If you visit 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
Bug repellent
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Skirts
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
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 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.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Luggage protection
Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.
Given current world events, China has travel 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to choose the right type. A lot of adapters for sale now 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 sufficient for most areas.
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
September
If you vacation in Xinjiang during September, you will probably find that it is warm 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
Light skirts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
Sandals
Breathable footwear or sandals
Bug repellent
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
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.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more 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.
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.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is 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 penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to get the right kind. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most places.
October
If you are traveling to Xinjiang in October, you will notice that it is crisp. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this one
Jacket or coat
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
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.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
November
November for Xinjiang is cold. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
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.Scarf/neck warmer
our favoriteSweaters
Coveralls/snow pants
Here are some of the best choices:
Lip balm
The best option: this one
Extreme cold weather gloves
Thermal undergarments
We chose:
Fleece for under jacket
Very heavy heated socks
Like these
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Room protection door lock
If going to 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.
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 airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, China has travel 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. Be sure to choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require 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 locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
December
December for Xinjiang is very cold. Temperatures average in the low 30s F (single digits C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Heated socks.
We've found
these to be the bestThick pajamas
Extreme weather jacket shell
These are an excellent value:
Insulated boots
The best value
Night cap
It's vital to wear a head warmer at night in this climate like this
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite:
thisFleece for under jacket
Neck warmer/cold weather face mask
Coveralls
We like:
Travel shoe storage
Since you will need to change into boots often,
travel shoe storage comes in handy.Heated gloves
Goggles for eye protection
our pickLip balm
Our pick: this one
Thermal undergarments
Our picks:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
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.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
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.
Check out our guides for these other locations: Calafat, Romania, Orbost, Victoria, Australia, Peterhead, Scotland, United Kingdom, Flandrau State Park, Minnesota, United States of America, Nelson, British Columbia, Canada, Tunceli, Turkey, Bega, New South Wales, Australia, Sherwood, Arkansas, United States of America, São Benedito do Sul, Pernambuco, Brazil, Hitoyoshi, Japan, and Mae Nam, Thailand.