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

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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

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
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel 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.

  • 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel 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 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For 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.

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
Health
Safety + Security

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can 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.

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.

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