What to Pack for Hong Kong: Complete Packing List

What to Pack for Hong Kong 2026: Complete Packing List

Hong Kong packing depends on season + planned activities — light + breathable for hot/humid summer, layered for cool autumn, and one nice outfit for upscale dim sum.

Quick Pack List Summary

Hong Kong packing depends on season + planned activities — light + breathable for hot/humid summer, layered for cool autumn, and one nice outfit for upscale dim sum.

Hong Kong Packing List by Category

Essentials

UK Type G plug adapter (3-pin square — same as UK + Singapore)

Passport (valid 1+ month past travel)

HKD 500-1,000 cash for taxis + small shops + dim sum

Octopus Card (buy on arrival HKD 150)

Comfortable walking shoes (Hong Kong walks A LOT)

Compact umbrella (sudden rain Apr-Sep)

Clothing (Summer May-Sep)

Lightweight + breathable — Hong Kong humid 90%+, hot 28-33°C

Quick-dry cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics

Light scarf/cardigan for aggressive AC indoors (mall A/C is 18°C)

1-2 pairs lightweight sandals + sneakers

Swimsuit for hotel pool + Repulse Bay

Sun hat + sunglasses + SPF 50+ + insect repellent

Clothing (Fall/Winter Oct-Feb)

October-November: light layers (15-25°C, ideal)

December-February: warm coat + scarf (10-18°C, can be windy)

Closed shoes + light gloves December-February

Layers for indoor heating vs. cool outside

Spring (Mar-Apr)

Layers + waterproof jacket (humidity rising, occasional rain)

Light fabrics that breathe

For Dim Sum + Restaurants

Smart casual for upscale dim sum (collared shirts, no flip-flops)

Casual fine for hole-in-the-wall + cha chaan teng

Tech

Phone with MTR Mobile app + Google Translate (Cantonese pinyin)

Power bank (long MTR + ferry days)

SIM/eSIM (3 HK HKD 80 for 30 days)

What NOT to Pack

Heavy clothes in summer — humidity makes everything cling

Stilettos (cobblestone + steep escalators)

Hair dryer (provided)

Excessive cash (Octopus Card + cards widely accepted)

Pro Tip: Aggressive aircon in malls + restaurants means a light cardigan/scarf is mandatory even in 33°C summer. Hong Kong’s “Hong Kong cold” indoor culture differs sharply from outdoor heat. Bring layers year-round.

Planning your Hong Kong trip? See our Hong Kong travel guide, best time to visit, destinations index, or our Ultimate Bucket List.

Hong Kong Packing FAQ

What should I wear in Hong Kong?

Light + breathable in summer; layers October-April. Smart casual for upscale restaurants. Comfortable walking shoes essential.

Do you need an umbrella in Hong Kong?

Yes April-September — sudden tropical downpours common. Compact umbrella stays in day bag.

What plug for Hong Kong?

UK Type G (3-pin square). Same adapter works in UK, Singapore, Ireland, Malaysia.

Is sunscreen needed in Hong Kong?

Yes — UV is strong April-October. SPF 50+ recommended for outdoor sightseeing (Victoria Peak, hikes, beaches).

What size luggage for Hong Kong?

Compact — many hotels have small rooms. 1 medium suitcase + carry-on optimal. MTR + airport express handle bigger bags but cabs are tight.