Yunnan, China: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Yunnan, China? If you're planning to go to Yunnan, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Yunnan
- Important essentials for Yunnan
- Activities for Yunnan
- Yunnan in January: weather and what to pack
- Yunnan in February: weather and what to pack
- Yunnan in March: weather and what to pack
- Yunnan in April: weather and what to pack
- Yunnan in May: weather and what to pack
- Yunnan in June: weather and what to pack
- Yunnan in July: weather and what to pack
- Yunnan in August: weather and what to pack
- Yunnan in September: weather and what to pack
- Yunnan in October: weather and what to pack
- Yunnan in November: weather and what to pack
- Yunnan in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Yunnan, China
Based on the climate and weather in Yunnan, China, the best time to go is April. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Yunnan, China
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Yunnan, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Yunnan, China by month
January
If you are traveling to Yunnan in January, you will notice that it is cold. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best choice: this one
Jacket or coat
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
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
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Yunnan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, 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
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is 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
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to choose the correct type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
February
If you are traveling to Yunnan in February, you will notice that it can be chilly. Expect it to rain once in a while. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light and heavy skirts
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Yunnan. 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 bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: 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
Our fave is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
March
March in this region is crisp. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost once in a while. It rains sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Pants or jeans
Light and heavy skirts
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Yunnan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate 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 neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to get the correct type. 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 burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.
April
If you are traveling to Yunnan in April, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Light jacket or fleece
Light and heavy skirts
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Pants or jeans
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things don't get wet. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
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.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Yunnan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
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 correct type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties 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
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
May
If you are traveling to Yunnan in May, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Short pants or heavy shorts
Extra socks
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
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 wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Yunnan. 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
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
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 find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.
Travel pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
June
If you are traveling to Yunnan in June, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain about two thirds of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Short pants or heavy shorts
Extra socks
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
Bug repellent
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
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.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Yunnan. 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
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to find the necessary type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
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
A versatile choice is this one
July
July in Yunnan is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains most days.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Extra socks
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Bug repellent
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Yunnan. 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 these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
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 prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to choose the correct kind. Most adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
August
Traveling to Yunnan in August, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain most days. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 60s F (low 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Breathable footwear or sandals
Extra socks
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
Bug repellent
A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural 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.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Yunnan. 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 bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support 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 excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to pick the right type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.
September
Traveling to Yunnan in September, you will notice that it is balmy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Extra socks
Light skirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A rain coat to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
Health
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 superb kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Yunnan. 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 constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
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 huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice 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
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.
October
If you are traveling to Yunnan in October, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Extra socks
Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light and heavy skirts
Light jacket or fleece
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
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 have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Yunnan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
November
If you go to Yunnan in November, you will notice that it is relatively cool. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost once in a while.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Extra socks
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These will be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
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.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Yunnan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, China has travel 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 sure to choose the necessary kind. 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 be sufficient for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
December
If you go to Yunnan in December, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light jacket or fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have 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 option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Yunnan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate 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
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
What to do in Yunnan, China
Yunnan Province, located in Southwest China, is a breathtaking destination that attracts visitors from all around the world. Known for its diverse ethnic groups and breathtaking natural scenery, it is a must-visit destination on any traveler’s bucket list. There are numerous tourist attractions in Yunnan, China, that cater to a variety of interests, but here are the top ones that you shouldn't miss:
1. Lijiang Ancient Town
Lijiang Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist spot in Yunnan. It features cobbled streets lined with traditional wooden homes, waterways, and canals that span across the town, making it one of the most photogenic places in China. Visitors can also admire the town’s rich Naxi culture and indulge in the vibrant nightlife scene.
2. Tiger Leaping Gorge
Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the deepest gorges in the world and offers a breathtaking view of the Yangtze River. It is a popular hiking route, with a 2 to 3-day trek that offers enchanting views of mountains, waterfalls, and valleys. The route, however, is not for casual hikers, but is a must-do for the adventurous trekker.
3. Stone Forest
The Stone Forest is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Yunnan. Located in Kunming, the Stone Forests boasts of towering limestone pillars that beautifully sculpted by nature. The Stone Forest is a perfect setting for a peaceful and quiet walk while enjoying the various rock formations and greenery.
4. Yuanyang Rice Terraces
The Yuanyang Rice Terraces are an engineering marvel and an iconic landscape that attracts tourists from all over the world. The cascading terraced paddies, covering about 12,500 acres, are an incredible display of man's harmonious relationship with nature. It is a popular attraction during the harvest season, but it is equally stunning all year round.
5. Shangri-La
Located in the northern part of Yunnan, this once shared Tibet town was previously called Zhongdian. It was later renamed after James Hilton's novel Lost Horizon that depicted a pleasant, mystical paradise in the mountains of Tibet. Shangri-La is a perfect destination for adventure seekers, with its rugged mountain scenery, alpine meadows, and Buddhist monasteries.
6. The Cangshan Range
The Cangshan Range is an extension of the Hengduan mountain ranges that stretches from north to south Dali. With a height of over 18,000 feet, the mountain range is rich in natural resources, such as medicinal herbs and plants, and has a diverse range of flora and fauna. A cable car ride can take visitors to the summit of the Cangshan Mountain range, allowing for a panoramic view of the beautiful scenery.
7. Jianshui
The Jianshui Ancient City is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture. Jianshui's Old Town features a maze of lanes and alleys, a typical feature in Southern Chinese towns, and is home to numerous historic temples and courtyards. The Jianshui Confucius Temple is also worth a visit as it is among the most ancient Confucian temples in China.
Conclusion
Suppose you're looking for a place to explore different cultures, appreciate natural scenery and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. In that case, Yunnan Province should be on your travel list. With its natural beauty and cultural diversity, Yunnan is a place that inspires travel and encourages cultural exchange. So book your flights, pack your bags, and immerse yourself in Yunnan's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

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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