From bustling streets to beautiful hiking trails, Hong Kong offers a huge range of experiences. Follow this packing list for Hong Kong to be fully prepared for your time there.
Hong Kong skyline © Robster1983 | CC0 1.0
Our packing list for Hong Kong includes everything from practical essentials like clothing and footwear to things like insurance, medicine and accommodation.
Preparing For Your Trip To Hong Kong
Before we get into larger physical items you’ll need to carry with you into Hong Kong, let’s cover the logistical side of packing. You’ll want to have all of these bases covered before you arrive in Hong Kong to avoid headaches, hassles and extra expenses.
- Flights – Hong Kong is a major travel destination, meaning there are plenty of options available for flights. As always, it’s worth comparing and booking as early as possible to avoid dealing with higher ticket costs as you get closer to your travel dates. If you’re still planning your Hong Kong trip and haven’t booked flights yet, you can check and compare flights online to get the best deal.
- Passport – Hong Kong authorities require that your passport has at least one month of extra validity after the period of your intended stay. However, if you’re travelling onward to another country, it’s best to check that your passport is valid for at least another year.
- Visa – People from most countries can enter into Hong Kong visa free, although there are some restrictions. You can view the official list online at the Hong Kong Immigration Department website for more information on visa/entry permit requirements.
- Accommodation – Prices change according to a number of factors but, like transportation, costs will be cheaper if you book at least three months in advance. Find the best prices for accommodation in Hong Kong at Booking.com.
- Activities – It’s a good idea to plan a few Hong Kong adventures before you arrive. GetYourGuide has an excellent catalogue of travel activities, with real reviews and usually an option to cancel, if your plans change.
Can I Use My Mobile Phone In Hong Kong?
Staying connected in Hong Kong is relatively easy, thanks to the city’s advanced telecommunications infrastructure. You can pre-purchase an eSIM via Klook and get everything set up before you even arrive. Most contemporary smartphones have the facility built-in and the set-up is reasonably straightforward. The site has full instructions and a detailed list of supported devices. eSIMs are generally data only, but you can use WhatsApp or similar to make calls. Wi-Fi calling is sometimes available.
If you still require a physical SIM, make sure your phone is unlocked before travelling. Local providers like China Mobile Hong Kong, CSL, and SmarTone offer prepaid SIM cards, which can be purchased at the airport, convenience stores (like 7-Eleven and Circle K), and mobile phone shops throughout the city. You can discuss the various data and voice packages with a member of staff, who will help you get set up with a short-term plan tailored to tourists. Take your passport as proof of ID.
Data can be expensive for travellers, so make good use of Hong Kong’s widespread free Wi-Fi, particularly in public spaces, shopping malls, and cafes.
Travel Insurance For Hong Kong
Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.
What Do You Need To Pack For Hong Kong?
Hong Kong is a bustling, modern city, meaning that you can find most of the items you use on a day to day basis easily after you arrive.
What Clothes To Pack For Hong Kong
Although Hong Kong never gets cold by Western standards, it does have a short winter that is slightly cooler than the other seasons. If you’re visiting Hong Kong from December to February, you’ll want to pack some light winter clothing.
- Sweater / Light Jacket – A sweater or relatively light fleece jacket will normally be enough for dealing with Hong Kong’s “cold” season (December to February), as well as helping you deal with the evenings and freezing cold air conditioning in shopping malls and cinemas.
- Rain Jacket – Hong Kong is quite rainy during winter and spring, meaning you’ll want to pack a rain jacket if you’re visiting Hong Kong between December and May. Umbrellas are readily available throughout the city, meaning this isn’t an essential.
Regardless of when you’re visiting Hong Kong, certain items are essential. From t-shirts to a comfortable pair of shoes, you’ll want to pack all of the following items regardless of when you visit Hong Kong.
- T-Shirts, Shorts And Summer Clothing – Hong Kong has a subtropical climate, meaning it’s generally warm and humid throughout the year, especially in summer. Cotton or other breathable fabrics are the best choice here due to the extreme humidity the during spring and summer months.
- What Underwear To Pack – Hong Kong is hot and humid for most of the year, meaning sports brands like with their high tech synthetic Under Armour are often a better choice for comfort than regular underwear.
- What Footwear To Pack – Hong Kong is hilly and home to numerous concrete staircases, walkways and other urban hazards, making a comfortable and supportive pair of lightweight walking shoes a must, whether you’re exploring Victoria Peak, wandering through Kowloon’s markets, or strolling along the harbor.
- A good pair of men’s or women’s casual shoes will serve you well in Hong Kong. If you plan on going hiking, some comfortable hiking boots from a brand like Merrell will offer more than enough support and comfort – Hong Kong’s hiking trails aren’t too rugged.
- Swimwear To Pack – Hong Kong is home to several good beaches. There are also numerous high end hotels spread throughout the city with swimming pools, some of which have views of the harbour.
- Hats and Sunglasses – Hong Kong can be very sunny in summer, making it a good idea to pack a hat and sunglasses to keep your face and eyes shaded. Especially important if you plan on exploring Hong Kong’s hiking trails.
Health And Grooming Items To Pack For Hong Kong
There’s no need to stock up on toiletries like toothpaste, mouthwash, shampoo, hair conditioner, razors, soap, tampons and other everyday products, as these are all easy to find in convenience stores and supermarkets.
Likewise, everyday medicines like paracetamol, nasal spray, cough medicine and others are all readily available in Hong Kong, often at the same or lower prices than in your home country.
- Tissues – These are worth bringing to Hong Kong, especially if you plan on enjoying the street food. Many vendors won’t provide tissues, or will only offer a small pack for an extra fee.
- Ear Plugs – Hong Kong isn’t an overly noisy city, but certain areas such as Tsim Sha Tsui and Lan Kwai Fong can be a little rowdy at night. A good set of noise-cancelling ear plugs will make it easier to get a full night’s sleep if you’re a light sleeper.
- Bug Spray – Mosquitos and other insects aren’t a problem in urban Hong Kong, but you’ll notice plenty of mosquitos if you go hiking. Any DEET insect repellant will keep you safe and protected while you’re out and about.
- Sunscreen – The sun can be intense in Hong Kong, particularly in the summer months. Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from UV rays, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.
- Refillable Water Bottle – Staying hydrated is important, especially when you’re walking around Hong Kong’s hot streets. A reusable water bottle will keep you hydrated and also help you reduce plastic waste. The Nalgene OTF is a great choice. Many public spaces and malls have water fountains where you can refill.
Electronic Devices To Pack For Hong Kong
- Camera – Hong Kong is a photographer’s paradise, making it a great place to visit if you’re interested in photography. A good DSLR or mirrorless camera along with a wide angle lens will let you capture the city’s spectacular skyline in amazing detail.
- Power Adapter – Hong Kong uses UK-style three-pronged power outlets, meaning you’ll need an adapter if you’re visiting from a country with different plugs. A universal travel adapter will let you use any plug type in Hong Kong without any issues.
- Portable Charger or Power Bank – Hong Kong has a lot to see and do, and you’ll likely be out exploring for long hours. A portable charger will ensure your devices stay powered, especially if you’re using your phone for navigation, photography, or ticketing apps during the day.
- Kindle – From the Airport Express to taxis, buses and MTR rides, you’ll have plenty of downtime while getting around Hong Kong, making an Amazon Kindle a great tool for passing the time.
Special Items For Specific Activities
If you’re flying in from far away, make sure to check out our Best Travel Comfort Accessories for Long Haul Flights guide, which covers all of the must-have items for long flights from Europe, North America, Australia and other far afield destinations.
- Pens – Pack a pen or two in your carry-on luggage, as you’ll need to fill in an immigration card when you enter Hong Kong.
Other Documents To Prepare For A Visit To Hong Kong
- Document Scans – It’s always worth taking smartphone photos of your passport identity page, driving license and other important documents before you travel. Store them safely in your email account and you can quickly access them if/when required.
- Student Card – If you’re a student (or under 30 or a teacher), consider International Student Identity Card, which may entitle you to discounts and cheap entry.
Luggage For A Visit To Hong Kong
- Backpack – Investing in a well-made backpack like Osprey can make all the difference, making it easy to carry everything with you with some degree of comfort.
- Suitcase – You may, of course, prefer a standard suitcase. Don’t skimp on quality – especially if it is going as hold luggage.
- You’ll need a daypack for carrying your essentials – water, snacks, sunscreen, camera, and personal items – while you’re out and about.
- Packing Cubes – Whatever type of luggage you choose, packing cubes are an invaluable way of keeping things organised and locating items easily without having to unpack everything.
- Luggage Locks – If your luggage doesn’t include a built-in lock, it’s best to secure it with a luggage lock. TSA luggage locks are cheap, reliable and fine to use if you’re travelling from the USA or other countries with luggage inspection laws.
Other Health Considerations For A Visit To Hong Kong
- Prescription Medicines – If you take any prescription medicines, make sure you have your doctor’s prescription packed into your luggage along with the medication when you enter Hong Kong.
- Vaccinations – Although there aren’t any serious disease risks in Hong Kong, it’s worth getting vaccinated for common tropical and infectious diseases (tetanus, hepatitis A and B, typhoid and rabies) if you’re travelling to a developing country after Hong Kong. Check the Fit For Travel website for the most up to date Hong Kong vaccination information.
Money For Visiting Hong Kong
- Credit and Debit Cards – Credit and debit card are widely accepted throughout Hong Kong, and ATMs are common and easy to find. If you’re travelling outside your home country for the first time in a while, it’s worth notifying your bank to ensure they know you’re in Hong Kong.
- Travel Wallet – A good travel wallet makes carrying your documents a breeze, as well as keeping your documents safe. It’s usually best to choose a larger travel wallet with space for your passport, bookings, credit cards and other essentials.
The Best Time To Visit Hong Kong
October to December is widely considered the ideal time to visit Hong Kong, as the weather is generally pleasant, with mild temperatures and low humidity. The obvious downside is that this brings more tourists and higher prices. January and February are also relatively dry and cool, but Chinese New Year means that tourist numbers – and prices – are at their peak
The spring months of March to May are warmer, with increased humidity and rain showers, but this is a good time to experience Hong Kong’s cultural calendar. Be prepared for changeable weather.
Summer (June to September) is usually the cheapest time to visit, but the climate is hot, humid, and rainy, with the risk of typhoons. If you’re prepared for challenging weather, you’ll find less crowds and potentially good deals at this time of year.
Match these four seasons to your comfort to different kinds of climate – whether you can handle humidity, for example – and then let budget be the final decider.
Planning What To Do And Where To Go In Hong Kong
- MTR Mobile App – Hong Kong’s underground MTR is the easiest way to get around the territory, and the MTR Mobile app makes checking train times and planning trips a much faster, easier process. Available in the iOS and Android app stores.
- Travel Guidebook – Although there’s plenty of free travel information about Hong Kong online, having a guidebook on hand makes finding things much easier when you’re out and about. Lonely Planet Hong Kong is arguably the best book in this category.
