Traveling to Taiwan: Your Ultimate Packing Guide

Traveling is exciting, and exploring new different places is a lot of fun. You have been dreaming about Taiwan, you have planned to sample all kinds of cuisines, see Taipei 101, visit Taroko Gorge in Hualien, but the fact that you need to pack stresses you out again. Don't worry, MyProGuide has summarized the following tips to make packing easy.

Note: Taroko Gorge was badly damaged by the April 2024 Hualien earthquake, and many of its best-known gorge trails are still closed while others have reopened step by step. Check the Taroko National Park website for the latest trail status before you plan your day there.

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The tips below cover packing in general, with a focus on what you need to know about what to wear and what to bring while traveling in Taiwan.  

First thing First: the art of packing is "less is more." 

1. Bring less. you can get a lot of bargain clothing in Taiwan

Night markets are where Taiwanese have a fun night out at. At night markets, you can find all kinds of delicious cuisines and bargain deals. Some nights markets are famous for cheap clothes, for example, the Shi Da Night Market in Taipei. Find everything you need in night markets: phone cases, accessories, stationaries, affordable electronic devices, and more!

2. Have an extra bag with you

It is super common to go home with more than you brought. Therefore, have an extra bag with you just in case you are out of space with your stuff. Save your souvenir shopping for the end of your trip and bring back some typical local dessert to share with your family and friends. 

Dress smart: what to wear in Taiwan

1. Pack for the season

Heat, humidity, and occasional showers are the three words that best describe the summer season in Taiwan. In the southern part of the island has strong winds, which makes it a bit less humid. Summer highs in Taiwan often reach 33–35 °C (91–95 °F), and humidity is very high. Winter in the lowlands is usually mild, around 12–18 °C (54–64 °F), though it feels colder in the damp north and in the mountains. The plum rain season usually runs from May to June, summer afternoons bring frequent thunderstorms, and typhoon season is roughly July to September. So bring an umbrella or a light raincoat if you are visiting Taiwan in the warmer months!

2. Proper sun protection

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As mentioned, it could be quite dazzling during the summer in Taiwan. Therefore, thorough sun protection would be a must. You can already bring some sunscreen along with you or buy it at the shops in Taiwan.

3. Respect the culture

Most Taiwanese follow a mix of Buddhism, Taoism and folk religion, and one of the must-dos is to visit the temples. However, most of the temples ask for proper dress code, which doesn't mean that you need to dress up, but maybe just don't use sandals and tank tops. Though as hot as Taiwan is during summer, bring some clothes with that can cover for special occasions, just in case.

4. Be prepared for outdoor activities 

Taiwan is famous for its diverse landscape. If you are visiting the capital, Taipei, you will be expecting loads of trails, waterfalls, and amazing activities to do! Remember to have sportswear, including sports shoes with you for a hike in Taiwan. Also, easy accessibility to stunning beaches.

5. Bring light jacket or long sleeves clothing with you

Almost all indoor areas, such as department stores, cinemas and restaurants, are strongly air-conditioned. Especially in summer, the temperature difference will make you sneeze when entering an air conditioning room from the outdoor area.

6. Mosquitoes, mosquitoes, mosquitoes 

During the summertime mosquitoes are out, do have some personal medicine for you to ease up the itchiness. Mosquitoes sprays are also available at the pharmacies. 

Here! Your final Checklist before leaving for the beautiful island.

• Your passport / ID
• Credit cards and cash
• Phone and charger
• A universal plug adapter
• Foreign currency
• Headphones
• Toothbrush + toothpaste
• Soap
• Lotion
• A traveling first aid kit
• Personal medicine/pain killer
• Deodorant
• Herbal insect repellent
• Sweater and/or jacket
• Shampoo + conditioner
• 1 extra pair of shoes
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• sunscreen
• Bathing suit
• Shoes
• Sandals
• Light clothing
• Long pants and clothes with long sleeves
• Raincoat/portable umbrella/light waterproof jacket
• Souvenirs from your own country (It's always fun when having connections with the locals, and having something from home to exchange some culture.)

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You are ready! Taiwan is a fantastic place where is famous for excellent food, a diverse landscape, and friendly people. No matter it is your first, second, or the sixth time in this beautiful country, with proper preparation, you will enjoy your Taiwan trip thoroughly.