Shanghai - What to Pack - Clothing and Supplies Tips

Shanghai What to Pack

Shanghai is a shopper’s paradise with a variable climate. Pack the clothing and supplies you’ll need to enjoy all the city’s historical sights and great shopping.

Luggage

No matter what you have planned for your Shanghai adventure, these luggage options are ideal for a short or long-term stay.

Hot, Cold, and Always Humid

Summers are very hot and winters very cold in most of China, so pack accordingly. The streets are dirty, so you may prefer to bring older clothes. Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes are a must. A small umbrella is good for the sunshine as well as the rain. Chinese women use them when walking to get a break from the heat when it’s muggy.

Clothes to Pack

Bring What You Need

Though just about everything is available for cheap in Shanghai, you’re better off bringing what you know you’ll need since western brands can be hard to find and plus-size clothing and shoes larger than size nine are often available. Though western stomachs seem generally compatible with Shanghai food, packing some Imodium never hurts. Many restaurants do not have napkins or a place to wash your hands. Bring wet-wipes and hand-sanitizer.

Toiletries to Pack

A Guide Book is Essential

Outside of your hotel and tour group, 99% of the people you will encounter will not speak English. A good phrase book is a life saver. It will help you navigate the subway system, which is labeled in Chinese.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about what to pack for Shanghai.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.