How to Pack for Hong Kong in the Summer: What You Need to Know and Bring

The following packing list for Hong Hong in summer has been submitted by Courtney Rodgers. See all our packing list posts here.

Hong Kong was never on my travel bucket list, but I spent last summer teaching English there and can’t wait to return one day. Hong Kong is a vibrant and beautiful city and it is easy to become overwhelmed by the amount of things there are to see and do. The last thing you want to worry or think about while on your trip is whether or not you have brought the right clothing and gear.

Here’s a list on how to pack for Hong Kong in the summer.

CLOTHING

With everything you bring, keep in mind that Hong Kong is extremely humid and hot in the summer, with rain nearly every afternoon. Shopping is abundant in Hong Kong, from street markets to deluxe shopping malls. Whatever type of trip you have planned should determine how much you bring and what clothing you’ll need. I brought mostly work clothes with some casual clothing for evenings and weekends since I was teaching, but the standard tourist may benefit from the following basic wardrobe.

1-2 Pairs Casual pants/shorts– Avoid denim if you can, as it takes so long to dry.

1-2 Dresses/ Skirts/ Going Out Outfits– Whatever suits your trip best. Hong Kong is an easy city to dress stylishly for; go with simple basics that can be dressed up or down.

5-8 Tops– This is the one thing I really wish I had brought more of. Cotton t-shirts wear well in the humidity and are great for casual nights out. Bring what you’ll be able to manage washing as you go, depending on how long your trip will be. You may even consider some technical gear (some wicking, quick-drying items) instead.

1-3 Camisoles/Tank Tops– Layering is crucial in Hong Kong. Wearing a tank under your shirt helps keep the sweatiness at bay and can help keep your clothes cleaner.

Leggings– If you wear a lot of skirts or dresses, you may want them for climbing in and out of buses and taxis, random gusts of wind, and standing on escalators or on the train at rush hour. Leggings also make great PJ’s in cold dorms and hotel rooms.

1-2 Cardigans– Air Con is often quite strong in restaurants and such. If your hostel or hotel is cold, you’ll be thankful as well.

Pajamas

Underclothes– 2 bras, 5-8 pairs of underwear and socks. Remember, you’ll be walking a lot.

Swimsuit

1 Pair of Flip–Flops– for the shower or the beach

Any other shoes you bring (flats, sandals, etc.) should be comfortable. You will be doing a LOT of walking. Keep the rain in mind, when selecting your day shoes.

TOILETRIES AND MEDICINES

Many American products are available at drug stores, but not everything.

Insect Repellent– Mosquitoes are plentiful in the summer. Options are available there, but they can be expensive.

Sunscreen– Another thing I recommend bringing from home.

Baby powder– Can be used as dry shampoo, sweat absorbent, or to soothe and protect against chafing.

Deodorant– You’ll definitely want to bring your preferred brand.

Hair Ties/Pins– Most heat styling is quickly ruined by the humidity.

Soap/Shampoo– If you don’t plan on buying there.

Toothbrush/toothpaste

If you wear makeup, tinted moisturizers are great for this sort of trip.

Any medications you take regularly.

Tampons/Pads/Diva Cup

Antacid tablets or pink bismuth tablets— I found that these two medicines helped me the best with occasional stomach issues. There are so many delicious things to eat in Hong Kong, but also a lot of opportunities to find something your body won’t agree with.

Tissues– You can pick these up to throw in your bag. Most toilets in Hong Kong are western style, but you might find yourself at a squat toilet and needing tissue.

Hand sanitizer

Towel– Quick dry is best.

TECH/MISC

E-reader or a book– Necessary for me to unwind after the excitement of teaching and the city.

MP3 player– Or smartphone. For the MTR/ bus.

Camera

Sunglasses

Chargers/ Adapter– Hong Kong uses British outlets.

Umbrella– Completely up to you, but I brought one that fit in my bag and used it almost daily.

Daypack or cross-body bag– great for running around the city.

>> Read about our top travel purses.

Guidebook or Cantonese phrase book– The phrase book will be helpful when ordering at a restaurant that does not have an English menu.

Indoor clothing line– Even using dryers, I had to hang my clothes to dry overnight.

>> See our tips for drying clothes without a dryer.

Passport/Necessary Visas

You will probably want to pick up a map of the city as well. Navigating the MTR is simple, but it’s also easy to get lost.

Whether your interests lie in shopping, the arts, or adventure, Hong Kong has it all. There are plenty of sights to see from The Big Buddha on Lantau Island to the gorgeous views from Victoria Peak (try going when it isn’t storming) and all the beaches, streets, entertainment, and lights in between. Hong Kong is now a place I consider “home.” I think of it often, especially about the incredible food, and my new friends there. As a Western visitor, Hong Kong is an easy city to explore and enjoy. I recommend going to every traveler I meet and am already dream-planning my next trip.

About the Author: Courtney Rodgers has a goal of filling out the pages of her passport before it expires. Her travels include experience as a teacher, performer, and volunteer. Courtney is currently a drama teacher, but is looking for her next adventure. In the meantime, she’s working on her third screenplay.

*All images except cover image supplied by Courtney Rodgers.