What to pack for a trip to Hong Kong (2025 edition)

The first time I visited Hong Kong, I wasn’t sure what I’d find. It’s such a massive city that I was worried it might feel a bit soulless or overwhelming. But what I discovered was a city buzzing with personality, colour, and life. Hong Kong is this wild, electric blend of ancient traditions and hyper-modern living—one minute you’re eating noodles in a back alley, the next you’re looking out over the skyline from a rooftop bar.

It’s a place that genuinely surprised me and totally won me over. The mix of cultures, the pace of life, the food (oh my god, the food!), and the vibrant energy make it one of the most unforgettable places I’ve ever explored. That said, being prepared makes all the difference—especially when it comes to packing.

Planning your trip?
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Hotels, I use Agoda
Insurance: Cover-More
Rentals: Discover Cars
RVs: Motorhome Republic
Transfers: Welcome Pickups
SIM Cards: Simify

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• Know before you go.

What’s the weather like?

Short answer: hot. Long answer: hot and humid, basically all year round. Whether you’re wandering through markets in Mong Kok or hiking up to Victoria Peak, expect to sweat it out. That said, some months are definitely more tolerable than others:

• Nov to Apr: These are the sweet spot months. The air feels lighter, and you’ll want to be outside. You’ll still get plenty of sunshine, with temps hovering between 20–25°C. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a cool breeze.
• Apr to Jun: It starts getting sticky here. The air feels thick, the sweat gets real, and sudden rain showers are the norm. If you’re travelling now, dress for comfort and expect frizz.
• Jul to Sep: Hong Kong’s typhoon season. It’s unpredictable and intense—sweltering heat, high humidity, and sudden downpours that’ll soak you in seconds. If this is your only window, pack smart and check the weather daily.
• Oct: A transitional month. There’s still some residual heat and rain, but things begin to calm. It’s a bit of a wildcard month but generally quite good for travel.

So, what should you pack?

Clothing

Pack light—literally. Lightweight cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking fabrics are your best bet. Anything heavy or clingy is going to feel like a sauna suit the moment you step outside. I packed a few heavy skirts on my first visit and regretted every sticky second of it.

Stick with flowy tops, activewear you can sweat in, loose shorts, and casual dresses that let your body breathe. If you’re planning any hikes or active days, sweat-resistant activewear is a win. Leave the jeans and jumpers at home unless you’re visiting mid-winter.

Sun protection

It doesn’t matter if it’s cloudy, overcast, or raining—UV rays are sneaky. Sunglasses, a wide-brim hat, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential here. I found myself reapplying sunscreen a few times a day, especially around midday when the sun gets savage.

I recommend bringing a travel-size SPF for your day bag so you can top up on the go. Hong Kong has great shaded areas, but you’ll still get sun exposure walking around or taking the Star Ferry.

Rain gear

A compact umbrella or packable raincoat is a must. Sudden downpours happen all the time, especially during the wet season, and you don’t want to be caught out in the middle of a street market. A quick-dry jacket also doubles as a windbreaker for cooler evenings.

Umbrellas are sold everywhere, but it’s better to have a sturdy one from home rather than a flimsy street buy that turns inside out in the first gust.

Footwear

Comfort is key. You’ll be walking A LOT—through malls, up stairs, across MTR stations, along trails—so supportive footwear is non-negotiable. I recommend bringing at least two pairs of comfy sneakers you can rotate, plus some casual flats or sandals for dinners out.

Avoid new shoes or heels unless you’re keen to limp home. Hong Kong’s streets are not forgiving if you’re wearing impractical footwear, especially the cobbled alleys or steep slopes.

Essentials and meds

A basic health kit will save you from late-night pharmacy runs. Pack cold and flu tablets, painkillers, allergy meds, tummy tablets, and anything specific to your needs (like a Ventolin inhaler if you’re asthmatic). Pollution and unfamiliar food can catch you off guard.

Also, make sure you’ve got enough of your prescription meds to last the trip, including extras in case your return gets delayed.

Hygiene helpers

You never know when you’ll run into a bathroom without toilet paper or soap. Keep tissues and a mini bottle of hand sanitiser in your bag at all times. They’ll save you from more than a few awkward situations.

I also used sanitiser religiously after catching the MTR or holding handrails in busy spots. It’s just peace of mind when you’re moving through a high-traffic city.

Bug spray

If you’re heading anywhere green—parks, hiking trails, the islands—you’ll want insect repellent. Hong Kong’s mosquitoes love warm bodies, and bites are itchy, annoying, and sometimes risky.

Get a DEET-based spray or a natural alternative that actually works. It’s worth applying before sunset when the mozzies come out for dinner.

Money

Hong Kong’s ATMs are easy to find, but they do come with withdrawal fees for foreign cards. Try to withdraw larger amounts in one go to save on charges. And definitely tell your bank you’re travelling—nothing ruins your day like a frozen card.

Cash is still widely used at small vendors and street markets, so it’s handy to have some HKD on you at all times.

Power adapter

You’ll need a UK-style Type G adapter (three flat prongs). If you’re bringing electronics like camera chargers, hair tools, or laptops, consider a universal adapter with surge protection.

Outlets can be limited in hotel rooms, so packing a mini power board or dual USB charger is also helpful.

Reusable water bottle

It’s humid, you’ll be walking, and you’ll sweat buckets. A refillable water bottle is great for staying hydrated, especially when you’re out all day. Many hotels and hostels have refill stations, and it saves on single-use plastics too.

Some attractions and parks also have public refill spots, though not everywhere—so start the day with it full.

Snacks

Pack a stash of easy, healthy snacks—muesli bars, nuts, or protein bites—for when you’re stuck in transit or exploring off the beaten path. Sure, Hong Kong has amazing food, but if you get hangry, you’ll want something on hand.

Fresh fruit is everywhere too—just keep some wet wipes nearby for juicy mango moments.

Your essentials

Bring anything you can’t live without: your preferred skincare, makeup, toothpaste, electric toothbrush heads, razors, or eco-friendly period products. While you can find these in Hong Kong, it’s often not the same brand, quality, or formula.

Use refillable 100ml bottles to save space and stick to carry-on rules. I love using the reusable black pots from Lush—they’re sturdy and flight-friendly.

Packing hacks

• Tupperware: Use hard containers for toiletries or jewellery. It stops spills, protects your stuff, and keeps your suitcase organised. You’ll thank yourself when you’re repacking in a rush.
• Eco-bags: Bring a few foldable, reusable bags. They’re handy for laundry, groceries, snacks, or stuffing with souvenirs. Plus, it cuts down on plastic use while you travel.
• Digital backups: Scan your passport, insurance, and itinerary to your phone or cloud storage. It’s boring admin—but you’ll be glad you did if anything goes missing.

Final Thoughts

Hong Kong is pure energy. It’s a little chaotic, often noisy, sometimes humid beyond belief—but always incredible. With the right gear packed, you’ll be free to dive into every adventure, every meal, and every unexpected moment that makes travel so magic.

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