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

Hong Kong is a destination I keep going back to, and I think I have been there more than 12 times throughout the years. So if there’s anyone to be telling you how to pack for a trip to Hong Kong, it’s me!

Hong Kong is a city with a humid all-year-round climate, and having spent months there during each time of year, I will tell you that winter is kind of moderate but wet, and summer is crazy hot and muggy!

In this packing list for Hong Kong, find my top requirements that should go in anyone’s bag for a successful trip to this amazing city. Remember to use the trip length selector tool below to input how long your trip will be.

For more on what to see and do in Hong Kong, check out our Hong Kong travel guide.

Essentials

Consider the list that follows to be a list of must-have essentials. Think of these as phone-wallet-keys and beyond, so that you’re ready for your flights in and your day to day in Hong Kong.

Packing organization

With the mix of natural environments and hyper urban settings in Hong Kong, you need a bit of everything. So, of course you want to stay organized while you’re packing, unpacking and packing again. With all the humidity in Hong Kong as well as the heat all summer long, you may be changing your clothes mid-day. Remember the items below in order to manage laundry and more.

Clothing for humidity and temperature swings

Hong Kong’s subtropical climate means humidity and temperature swings between air-conditioned spaces and outdoor areas. You’ll want light colors and easy fabrics that work for both city walks and quintessential Hong Kong mountain hikes. Layers help when moving between air-conditioned malls and humid outdoor markets, as A/C can be cranked up high, and winter days also require layers and a jacket.

Shoes and footwear

Hong Kong is a walkable city with excellent public transit like buses, trolleys at the MTR (metro). You’ll want comfortable shoes for exploring neighborhoods, walking city streets and hiking trails like Victoria Peak or the island walks on the south side of Hong Kong Island. If you plan to be doing day-long hikes out in Kowloon, consider taking hiking shoes if you have the space in your luggage.

Toiletries and health

You can buy most things in Hong Kong, because there are pharmacies everywhere! I’ve gotten even travel-sized face wash containers from brands I know from home at Hong Kong’s many supermarkets. Nevertheless, having these crucial products on hand saves time and stress, so check the list below while you’re packing.

One more thing: mosquito repellent is especially important for hiking trails and evenings. If you cannot check a small bottle in your luggage, you can purchase some once you arrive.

Electronics and tech

Stay connected and powered up while exploring Hong Kong’s neighborhoods and using public transit like the MTR system to get around. I always recommend checking into the tech products below before leaving for an international trip.

If you happen to have an Octopus card from past trips to HK, bring it back with you! This card is essential for public transportation trips, and can be used at convenience stores once it’s loaded up with cash.

Sightseeing essentials

For exploring Hong Kong’s neighborhoods, markets, temples and city attractions, these sightseeing favorites of mine will come in handy. Keep in mind that popular sites like Victoria Peak can get crowded, so plan accordingly with having your stuff secure in a zippered belt bag or pouch, and have an eye on your daypack, even though crime in HK is very, very rare.

Hiking and outdoor gear

If you plan to hike Hong Kong’s mountains like Victoria Peak, Dragon’s Back or explore the island’s natural areas, you’ll want gear that handles humidity, elevation changes and varied terrain. Not all trails will be the same, although some are boardwalk-style and quite simple, but having good hiking shoes in addition to daily walking shoes will help manage your footing.

Beach gear

Hong Kong’s “outlying islands” and the south side of Hong Kong Island offer beautiful beaches like Repulse Bay, Shek O and Big Wave Bay. These have been some of my most epic and unique travel memories from many trips to Hong Kong.

You’ll want gear that handles sand, salt water and sun, and of course, put your camera into this category because your photos will be amazing!