Taiwan Packing List: What I Brought (How to Prepare for a Trip)

The combination of scenic photos and using your phone for navigation will drain your battery faster than you think, especially while you’re out exploring the night markets. Keep a power bank handy so you’re never caught with a dead phone mid-tour.

Staying hydrated is absolute key during those warm and humid Taiwan days. Bringing your own bottle is a great way to save money and take advantage of the many filtered water stations you’ll find throughout the island.

The subtropical sun can be surprisingly intense, even during those cooler mountain moments. A good sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is absolute key for protecting your skin while you’re out exploring.

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 issue while exploring the city streets.

A dedicated wash pouch keeps your bathroom essentials organized and ensures that a leaky bottle won’t ruin your favorite clothes. I love the ones that hang up for easy access in those varied Taiwanese accommodations.

Whether you’re staying in a lively city center or a hotel near a busy market, a pair of ear plugs is absolute gold for ensuring you get some quiet rest between all those days of exploring Taiwan.

Rain is frequent in Taiwan, so a sturdy, compact umbrella is an absolute necessity for staying dry while you’re out exploring. It’s an easy thing to keep in your daypack for those quick subtropical showers.

Separating your sweaty humidity-soaked laundry from your clean clothes is a simple way to stay organized, especially when you’re dealing with varied types of itineraries.

I honestly can’t travel without these anymore because they make organizing varied climate gear so easy. They’re perfect for keeping your city clothes separate from your hiking and night market gear in your bag.

Choosing the right size and type of luggage is key for navigating Taiwan’s cities and local transit. You’ll want something durable that can handle the city streets and being the only bag you carry for a few weeks.

If you’re planning on doing some serious shopping for local products, you’ll want to keep an eye on your bag’s weight. A quick check with a scale can save you from those annoying surprises at the airport.

A lightweight daypack is absolute key for carrying your essentials while you’re out exploring the city or wandering through the night markets. Look for something that fits well and offers quick access to your gear.

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 at my chest during my travels through Taiwan.

A dedicated dopp kit keeps your bathroom essentials organized and ensures that a leaky bottle won’t ruin your favorite clothes. It’s one of those small things that makes travel a lot smoother.

A few lightweight and breathable short-sleeve shirts are perfect for staying comfortable in the subtropical humidity of Taiwan. They’re also absolute gold for layering when you’re moving between humid outdoor markets and air-conditioned malls.

I always pack at least one long-sleeve shirt for providing extra protection from the subtropical sun and for staying comfortable in air-conditioned spaces. It’s an easy piece that provides so much extra versatility for your trip.

I always pack a few comfortable tank tops for those warmer moments when the sun clears during your visit. They’re also perfect for layering under a light jacket if the city breeze picks up.

A pair of comfortable shorts is absolute key for staying cool and relaxed while you’re out exploring the night markets or enjoying a casual day in the city. You’ll definitely want a pair that fits well!

I find lightweight joggers or pants to be some of the most versatile things I pack because they work for long bus or MRT rides and as extra protection from mosquitoes in the evening. You’ll definitely want a pair that quick-dries!

Versatile and comfortable, leggings are perfect for those more active days or for staying comfortable during your travel plans. They’re an easy piece that provides so much extra comfort throughout the day.

A versatile scarf or shawl is absolute gold for providing extra coverage for your shoulders when visiting temples and for staying comfortable in air-conditioned spaces. It’s one of those small things that adds so much comfort.

I always pack at least one light sweater or cardigan for those cooler transitions or for staying comfortable in air-conditioned buses, trains and malls. It’s an easy piece that provides so much extra warmth when needed.

A reliable light jacket or windbreaker is an absolute necessity for protection from the air-conditioning on public transit or from a quick subtropical rain shower. Look for something that offers both protection and breathability.

Rain can happen any time of year in Taiwan, so a reliable rain jacket or even a simple poncho is an absolute necessity for staying comfortable and dry while you’re out exploring.

You’ll probably be showering and changing more than usual after those long days of exploring in the 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 and sightseeing in Taiwan. You might want to pack an extra one or two for the trip just in case.

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

Believe me when I say you’ll be doing a lot of walking through city streets and up temple steps. Your feet will definitely thank you for choosing a sturdy, comfortable pair that’s already well broken in before you arrive.

If you plan to hike mountains like Xiangshan or Yangming Shan, a sturdy pair of hiking boots is absolute gold for navigating the varied terrain. They provide much more support and stability for those longer days on the trails.

A reliable pair of sandals or flip-flops is absolute gold for when you need to take off your shoes for temples or homes. They’re also perfect for letting your feet breathe after a long day of exploring.

Choosing a comfortable and breathable pair of everyday socks is key for those long days of walking through Taiwan’s cities. Quality moisture-wicking pairs will keep your feet dry and comfy even in the humidity.

I’ve learned the hard way that good socks are just as important as the shoes themselves when you’re out on the trails. Quality moisture-wicking pairs will keep your feet dry and comfy even during those longer Taiwan hikes.

The subtropical sun can be surprisingly intense, even during those cooler mountain moments. A good sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is absolute key for protecting your skin while you’re out exploring.

Providing some extra protection from mosquitoes is absolute key for staying comfortable while you’re out exploring the mountain trails. A good repellent with DEET or Picaridin will keep those pesky bugs away during your visit.

Having a small bottle of hand sanitizer is absolute key for staying clean while you’re out enjoying those incredible Taiwanese street food adventures. It’s an easy thing to keep in your daypack for quick access.

I like to keep a tiny kit with bandages, pain relievers and some stomach medicine in my daypack just in case. It’s much better to have it right there than to be hunting for supplies while you’re out exploring.

I find a fanny pack or 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 at my chest during my travels through Taiwan.

Having a guidebook or offline maps is so helpful for navigating those areas where cell service might be spotty. It’s one of those things that provides so much extra peace of mind when you’re out exploring.

Protecting your eyes from the bright subtropical sun is absolute key, especially when you’re out exploring the coastal areas. A good pair of sunglasses will keep you comfortable and stylish throughout your visit.

Providing some extra shade with a hat or cap is absolute gold for staying comfortable while you’re out enjoying the subtropical sun. It’s a simple way to stay cool during those longer sightseeing days.

Staying hydrated is absolute key during those warm and humid Taiwan days. Bringing your own bottle is a great way to save money and ensure you have enough water while you’re out exploring.

A lightweight and comfortable daypack is absolute key for carrying your essentials while you’re out exploring Taiwan’s beautiful mountain trails. Look for something that fits well and offers quick access to your gear.

Mountain weather in Taiwan can change surprisingly quickly, especially at higher elevations. A reliable rain jacket is essential for staying comfortable and dry while you’re out exploring the trails.

Protecting your head from the bright subtropical sun is absolute key while you’re out exploring the mountain trails. A good hat will keep you cool and shaded even during those longer Taiwan hikes.

Protecting your eyes from the bright subtropical glare is absolute key, especially when you’re out on the trails. A good pair of sunglasses will keep you comfortable and stylish throughout your mountain visits.

Staying hydrated is absolute key during your mountain hikes in the humid Taiwan climate. Bringing your own bottle is a great way to ensure you have enough water for the entire day on the trails.

Providing some extra protection from mosquitoes is absolute key for staying comfortable while you’re out exploring Taiwan’s lush mountain trails. A good repellent will keep those pesky bugs away during your visit.

A compact quick-dry towel is a total lifesaver for managing sweat in Taiwan’s humid mountain conditions. It’s an easy thing to pack and so useful for staying fresh while you’re out on the trails.