What luggage should I bring when traveling to Xinjiang?
The biggest feature of traveling in Xinjiang is the large temperature difference between day and night: even in summer, you need to bring a thin down jacket or fleece jacket. Sunscreen (hat, sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen) and moisturizer are essential; carry your original identification documents with you, and for hiking in scenic spots, it is recommended to wear grippy hiking shoes.
The day-night temperature difference in Xinjiang often reaches 10–15°C, so pack luggage using the "onion layering" method:
- Clothing: Short sleeves are fine during summer daytime, but fleece or light down is needed in the early morning and at night; in autumn and winter, down jackets and warm hats are essential.
- Sun protection and moisturizing: Ultraviolet rays are very strong, so SPF50 sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat are a must; the climate is dry, so lip balm and moisturizer are very important.
- Shoes: Wear non-slip hiking shoes for trekking areas like Kanas and Sayram Lake.
- Documents: Always carry your ID card or passport; real-name verification is required for entering scenic spots, staying in hotels, and taking trains.
- Others: Thermos, power bank, and commonly used medications; in some mountainous areas, signal is weak, so download offline maps in advance.