Hong Kong Packing List: Real Tips from My 12 Trips to HK

Relying on your phone for photos and navigation while exploring the lively streets of Mong Kok will drain your battery faster than you think. Keep a power bank handy so you’re never caught with a dead phone mid-adventure.

Staying hydrated is so important when you’re out exploring the humidity of Hong Kong. Bringing a reusable bottle is a great way to save plastic, especially if your hotel has one of those massive water jugs for refills.

Don’t underestimate the sun while you’re out exploring the waterfront or hiking the trails. A bit of sunscreen will save you from a nasty burn during those long days of sightseeing in the humidity.

I like to keep a tiny kit with bandages and pain relievers in my daypack just in case. It’s much better to have it right there than to be hunting for a pharmacy when you’re in the middle of a busy market.

A dedicated wash pouch keeps your bathroom essentials organized and ensures that a leaky bottle won’t ruin your gear. I love the ones that hang up for easy access in those compact Hong Kong hotel bathrooms.

Whether you’re trying to sleep on the flight or staying in a room near the lively city streets, a pair of ear plugs is absolute gold for ensuring you get some quiet rest in such a vibrant metropolis.

The subtropical weather in Hong Kong can change in a heartbeat and a sudden downpour is never out of the question. A compact umbrella fits easily in your bag and saves you from getting soaked during an afternoon stroll.

Separating your laundry from your clean clothes is a simple way to stay organized, especially when you’re dealing with sweaty gear from a day of walking in the humidity.

I honestly can’t travel without these anymore because they make organizing different types of gear so easy. They’re perfect for keeping your hiking clothes separate from your evening outfits in a compact bag.

You’ll want a bag that can handle being navigating through busy airports and along the bustling city sidewalks. Make sure yours has sturdy wheels that won’t give out on you during your city explorations.

If you’re planning on taking a local or budget flight around the region, you’ll want to keep an eye on your bag’s weight. A quick check with a scale can save you from those annoying overweight fees at the counter.

A lightweight daypack with secure zippers is perfect for carrying your water, sunscreen and an extra layer while you’re out exploring markets and historic sites. You’ll want something comfortable that won’t weigh you down all day.

I find a sling bag to be one of the most versatile things I pack because it works for city walks and keeps my most important things right across my chest where they’re easy to reach.

I always pack a lightweight layer because the air conditioning in Hong Kong’s malls and trains can be surprisingly cold. It’s the perfect thing to throw on when you transition from the humid streets to the chilled indoors.

Long-sleeve shirts are ideal for those heavily air-conditioned spaces and provide a bit of extra protection from mosquitoes when you’re out by the water in the evening.

Anticipate a bit of sweat no matter what time of year you visit, as the humidity is almost always a factor. Breathable tank tops are great for staying cool while you’re walking through the different neighborhoods.

Shorts are a staple for the warmer months in Hong Kong when you’re out exploring the public gardens or the historic properties. Just remember that the humidity can make it feel even warmer than the thermometer says.

I find lightweight pants to be some of the most versatile things I pack because they work for both travel days and active excursions. You’ll want a pair even in the summer for protection from AC and insects.

A pair of leggings is perfect for those active excursions or just for staying comfortable during the long flight over. They take up almost no space in your bag, so they’re an easy addition to any list.

A lightweight cardigan is an essential for navigating the extreme temperature swings between the humid outdoors and the cool interiors of malls and transit. You’ll definitely want it for those long commutes on the MTR.

A lightweight windbreaker is a smart layer for hiking trails because it offers protection from the breeze without being too bulky. It’s perfect for those higher elevation spots like Victoria Peak where the wind picks up.

The weather in Hong Kong can be quite fickle, especially during the summer months when sudden downpours are common. A good rain jacket will keep you dry during those unexpected showers while you’re out sightseeing.

You’ll probably be showering and changing more than usual with all the walking and humidity. Bring plenty of extras so you always have a fresh pair throughout your trip.

Choosing a comfortable and supportive bra is key for those long days of exploring the city’s neighborhoods. If you tend to sweat a lot in the humidity, you might want to pack an extra one or two for the trip.

I’ve learned the hard way that good socks are just as important as the shoes themselves. Quality moisture-wicking pairs will keep your feet dry and comfy even during long days of walking in the city.

Believe me when I say you’ll be doing a lot of walking, from the historic sites all the way down to the waterfront. Your feet will definitely thank you for choosing support and comfort over style.

If you’re planning any of the iconic hikes like Dragon’s Back, proper hiking boots are a must. Make sure they’re already broken in before you arrive so you can focus on those incredible views!

A pair of sandals or flip-flops is perfect for those beach days at Repulse Bay or just for relaxing around your hotel. They’re an easy way to stay cool and comfortable when you’re not doing heavy walking.

Since Hong Kong is almost always a bit damp, some quality moisture-wicking socks are an absolute must for long days of exploring. They’ll keep your feet dry and comfy even when the humidity is high.

If you’re hitting the hiking trails outside the city, you’ll want some dedicated hiking socks. They provide extra cushioning and help manage moisture much better than your regular everyday pairs.

Don’t underestimate the sun while you’re out on the waterfront or exploring the city. A bit of sunscreen will save you from a nasty burn during those long days of sightseeing in the intense humidity.

Mosquitoes can be surprisingly persistent on the hiking trails and during the evenings in the more residential areas. A good repellent with DEET or Picaridin is an absolute must for staying comfortable.

Hand sanitizer is such a handy thing to have in your daypack, especially for trying out all the incredible street food at the markets. It’s an easy way to stay fresh while you’re out and about.

I like to keep a tiny kit with bandages and pain relievers in my daypack just in case. It’s much better to have it right there than to be hunting for a pharmacy when you have a minor scrape.

A sling bag or fanny pack is the perfect way to keep your most important things right at your fingertips while you’re out exploring. It keeps your valuables secure and your hands free in crowded areas like Mong Kok.

Sometimes it’s nice to put the phone away and look at a physical guidebook for historical context. It’s a great way to learn more about the city’s rich history without staring at a screen all day.

The sun can be surprisingly bright as it reflects off the skyscraper windows and the ocean waves. A good pair of sunglasses will protect your eyes and keep you comfortable while you’re sightseeing or at the beach.

A hat is a versatile accessory that works for both sun protection and extra warmth during those chilly morning walks. Just be sure it’s secure so it doesn’t blow away if you’re taking one of the ferries!

Staying hydrated is key when you’re walking miles between historic sites and the waterfront in the humidity. Bringing your own bottle is a great way to reduce single-use plastic while you’re exploring the city.

A lightweight daypack is perfect for carrying your water, sunscreen and an extra layer while you’re out on the trails. You’ll want something comfortable that won’t weigh you down as you’re climbing up to those views.

The weather can be quite fickle in the mountains, so a good rain jacket is a smart addition to your hiking kit. It’ll keep you dry during sudden showers and block those cool breezes at higher elevations.

A good hat is one of the most important things for protecting yourself from the sun while you’re out on the trails. We found that a simple cap offered the best protection for those long days of hiking.

The sun can be surprisingly strong as it reflects off the many glass skyscrapers and the ocean. A good pair of sunglasses will protect your eyes and keep you comfortable while you’re out exploring.

Hydration on the mountain trails is critical, as the combination of humidity and physical effort will drain you quickly. Make sure to carry enough water for the entire hike and refill it daily.

Mosquitoes can be surprisingly persistent on the shaded portions of the hiking trails. A good repellent is an absolute must for staying comfortable while you’re out in the more natural areas of Hong Kong.

A quick-dry towel is a lifesaver for managing sweat in the humid Hong Kong conditions. It’s lightweight and takes up almost no space, making it an easy thing to throw in your daypack for any outing.

If you’re planning any beach days at Repulse Bay or Shek O, don’t forget your swimsuit! It’s one of those essentials that’s easy to overlook when you’re thinking about such a massive city.

A quick-dry towel is an absolute must for beach days in a damp climate like Hong Kong. It’ll dry much faster than a standard cotton towel and won’t get that musty smell in your bag.

The sun can be surprisingly bright as it reflects off the ocean waves and the many glass skyscrapers. A good pair of sunglasses will protect your eyes and keep you comfortable while you’re out at the beach.

A good hat is one of the most important things for protecting yourself from the sun while you’re out on the water. We found that a simple cap offered the best protection for those long beach days.

Don’t underestimate the sun while you’re out at the beach or on the water. A bit of sunscreen will save you from a nasty burn during those long days of swimming and relaxing.