27 Top Taiwan Packing List Items for 2026 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

You’re gearing up for an exciting trip to Taiwan. You’ve heard about top things to do like hiking, bike rides, night markets, tea houses, beaches, temples, festivals, and of course, exploring Taipei 101. I know you can’t wait to visit, but have you truly packed all the right essentials you’ll need to have a good time?

Well, maybe you have, but there’s always more to consider, right? So, let's cross our T’s and dot our I’s. Check out this list of top items to pack for Taiwan, plus what to wear and what not to bring.

What to Pack for Taiwan – 27 Essentials

1. International Travel Adapter

Taiwan uses 110 volts with Type A and B plugs and sockets, which is the same as the US, Canada, and Japan. But if you’re also considering country-hopping across East Asia while in the area, you’ll need this lightweight and compact universal travel adapter to meet the electrical needs of the various regions. Don’t leave home without it!

View on Amazon.com

2. Waterproof Phone Pouch

Whether you’re exploring the Taipei Islands or Sun Moon Lake – Taiwan is surrounded by water. Protect your lifeline with this universal case. It protects your phone from misty staircases in Jiufen or the hot springs of Beitou.

View on Amazon.com

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

According to data from Cambridge, Taiwan ranks in the top 5 countries worldwide for hacking vulnerability and cybercrime traffic. In 2022, they were averaging 30 million attempted attacks per month! We all love to join a free, public network at cafes, libraries, airports, and hotels – but these can leave you vulnerable (which is how my credit card number was stolen from an Airbnb). A VPN will protect your private data while traveling abroad, ensuring no peering eyes or hackers monitor your online activity.

As far as censorship, Taiwan is an administrative region of China. You don’t want to be hindered by the ‘Great Firewall of China,’ which is notorious for censoring massive amounts of information. A VPN will give you access to 6K+ servers in 100+ countries, offering a freer and more private internet experience. It also blocks ads, hides your IP address, gets you discounts on items influenced by geographic location, and prevents people from tracking your data. I have it active on my laptop, phone, and desktop computers since NordVPN can cover multiple devices (and your phone can be the most vulnerable!)

View NordVPN.com Options

4. Packing Cubes

Get organized and save space in your luggage by throwing in these premium quality packing cubes that come with 2 laundry bags to keep your dirty laundry separate from the pack. These will prove especially useful in Taiwan for when you’ll need to quick access to your must-have swimsuits and toiletries to electronics and heat protection accessories.

View on Amazon.com

5. Portable Charger

Don’t miss out on capturing beautiful moments in Taiwan or using an English to Mandarin translation app at a critical moment all because you’ve failed to bring a portable charger for your phone or camera. Luckily, this portable charger also fits into your pocket so charging on the go has never been easier.

View on Amazon.com

6. Travel Insurance for Taiwan

Travel insurance is not mandatory in Taiwan as with many countries, but it is still strongly recommended in an effort to protect foreigners from paying out-of-pocket for large expenses. Your domestic coverage is just that – domestic, meaning it doesn’t follow you overseas for medical care, evacuations, transports, or other emergency needs. Travel insurance is ideal because it covers more travel-centric areas, like baggage loss, theft, flight delays, rental issues, and extreme sports.

Our favorite provider hands-down is Faye! They are a modern solution to an antiquated system that makes the whole process completely painless. With a 100% digital platform, everything is managed from their mobile app (where you can make claims, get reimbursed, receive 24/7 support for any questions you have, and even track your flight routes for updates). It is great for peace of mind when venturing far from home and pays for itself if anything comes up.

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye

7. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

While Taiwan is relatively safe, luggage locks are more about peace of mind than anything else. Particularly since the risk of theft goes up with international flights. These 4-digit locks are awesome for hostel lockers, city lockers, or even using a storage room at a train station.

View on Amazon.com

8. Slip-on Waterproof Shoes

I prefer a shoe for Taiaw that’s easy to slip-on and off for Taiwan since you’ll be dealing with indoor spaces where it is a sign of respect to remove your shoes. Follow tradition while still maintaining comfort for all the walking you’ll be doing. These crocs are easy to hose off if you get any mud on them.

View on Amazon.com

9. Water-Resistant Shoe Bags

Speak of dirt and city muck, stash your kicks in these shoe bags that keep your damp shoes separate from your clothing items. It’s the best way to keep your suitcase fresh and organized while adding a touch of luxury at an affordable price.

View on Amazon.com

10. Neck Wallet

Let this lightweight, heavy-duty neck wallet be the perfect way to secure your IDs, passport, cash, debit/credit cards, and even phones, as you explore Taiwan. Just throw it around your neck and you’ll never have to worry about losing your important personal items or theft from pickpockets

View on Amazon.com

11. High-Quality Filtered Bottle

Taiwan’s tap water is not typically considered safe to drink straight. Carrying a refillable water bottle will keep you hydrated under the Taiwanese sun. Plus, it’s equipped with an advanced water filter in case you need to refill from a questionable source.

View on Amazon.com

12. Deodorant Wipes

This is one of the first things I thought of for this list. I was so thankful to have these in the heavy humidity of Taiwan’s subtropical climate. After a long day of visiting temples or exploring busy markets, I consider these a must.

View on Amazon.com

13. Windproof Umbrella

Taiwan is generally warm all year round but receives occasional rain showers in the Summer and early Fall due to its location in a tropical zone. You can escape Taiwan’s heat and rain with this sturdy, lightweight, 12” umbrella that you can easily tuck into your luggage without taking up much space.

View on Amazon.com

14. Face Mask

Wearing a face mask has been a common personal care application across East Asia for decades. You’ll see people wearing face mask on the bus, trains, airplanes, in supermarkets, and parks. Help protect yourself and look fashionable at the same time by donning this breathable mask that’s made in the USA!

View on Amazon.com

15. Hanging Toiletry Bag

You will quickly realize that space in Taiwan, particularly in boutique hotel bathrooms, is intended to be maximized (this is code for… limited countertop space). Make the best of a tricky situation with this hanging toiletry bag that hangs virtually anywhere.

It keeps your things organized and easily accessible with all of your self-care items at eye-level. We love this system rather than dealing with lots of little plastic sacks to prevent liquid spills or juggling bottles on the sink’s edge. There’s a better way! And once you try this bag, you won’t go back to traveling without it.

View on Amazon.com

16. Activated Charcoal

This item popped in my head early while making this list. When I travel to destinations with eclectic food scenes (which is a main reason for the visit, but my stomach may not be accomasted to the unique flavors) activated charcoal is a must-have.

It minimizes the effects of any food poisoning or sensitive tummies as you acclimate to the spice level. Not to mention, each part of the world has unique bacteria so it takes a bit for your stomach to adjust.

View on Amazon.com

17. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

Taiwan’s heat will keep you sweaty, and although it’s vital to stay cool under the sun, it’s also just as important to keep dry. Take this quick-dry microfiber towel with you to the mountains, beaches, landmarks, and city streets to wipe away the sweat and soak up water after a splash. Hey, you wouldn’t want to look sweaty and soaked in every picture, would you?

View on Amazon.com

18. Taiwan eSIM Data Service (Avoid Roaming Fees!)

The networks in Taiwan are top-tier and you will have mobile coverage even on high-speed trains! Join the best local networks with an eSIM service through Saily. This completely digital way of hopping between networks in 200+ destinations is way easier than dealing with a physical SIM card or hunting for a kiosk at Taoyuan Airport. You’ll need mobile data to navigate or use the public transit system effectively, and paying your domestic carrier an arm-and-a-leg is old news.

Pssst… Use our link for 5% off an already epic deal! Code: ASHER5

Pick a data plan at Saily.com

19. Discounted Tickets on Top Taiwan Attractions

Pre-booking your excursions will ensure a lower rate and saving time that should be enjoyed on your trip. You don’t want to arrive with a fully booked itinerary that leaves no room for spontaneity, but you also don’t want a completely empty itinerary.

Get Your Guide will help you book the best tours from visiting the TaiPei 101 Observatory to Thousand Island Lake. Day trips to Shifen and Jiufen are popular and I’d definitely recommend a food tour to fully immerse yourself. No waiting in long lines in the humidity, you’re welcome!

See all Taiwan attractions at GetYourGuide.com

20. Affordable Underwater Camera

Taiwan is surrounded by water, so there’s a 99.99% chance that you’ll end up on a beach. If and when that’s the case, take this affordable underwater camera with you to capture those sure-to-be unforgettable moments above and beneath the waves.

View on Amazon.com

21. Floating Wrist Strap

As you explore the breathtaking sights of Sun Moon Lake or days at the coast, attach this flotation strap to your phone to eliminate any stress of losing your lifeline. It comfortably fits around your wrist and will keep the important things buoyant in case anything falls in while kayaking in Kenting or taking a boat tour in Penghu!

View on Amazon.com

22. Luggage Straps

Colorful straps make your set of bags immediately recognizable which is such a time-saver on busy travel days. I consider this a luxury at the airport, but it’s also useful for ferry bag storage rooms where other people’s bags can get stacked over yours and every black bag starts to look the same.

They also reinforce your weak zippers to keep everything fortified for the bumpy international journey (not to mention the lack of care from some baggage handlers…) so it’s the perfect security system for nearly any bag. Get a few sets for each case and you’ll love spotting your belongings from a mile away.

View on Amazon.com

23. Bluetooth Earphones

It’s always good to bring a good pair of Bluetooth earphones when traveling to any part of the world where subways, buses, and trains are the norm for getting around town. How great would it be to vibe out to your favorite music while riding to the next attraction, landmark, or activity?

View on Amazon.com

24. Cooling Towel

Let these premium microfiber cooling towels relieve you from Taiwan’s heat while you’re cycling, hiking, camping, at the beach, or exploring the region’s endless attractions. All you’ll need to do is dip the towel into water and vwalah—you’ve got 30-60 minutes of cooling relief for your head and neck. Plus, the microfiber material is chemical-free!

View on Amazon.com

25. Pocket-Sized Travel Blanket

This foldable, compact blanket is so versatile. In Asia, I’ve used it for anything from a picnic blanket in a scenic area to covering myself on a high-speed rail, which can get quite chilly. It’s great for airport layovers, parades, concerts, and more (plus, small enough to clip onto your backpack so you don’t even have to pack it).

View on Amazon.com

26. Airborne Immunity Support Medicine

Traveling across the world can sometimes feel hard on the body. After all, you’re landing in an entirely different hemisphere where weather, smells, food, hygiene, cleanliness, and even elevation, aren’t familiar to your body’s system. Airborne Immunity provides antioxidant support to help your body fight off free radicals and general physical stress you may feel in a different region of the globe.

View on Amazon.com

27. Portable Hard Drive

Taiwan is beautiful all around, which means you’re your camera and/or phone will be flooded with pics of its incredible architecture, cuisine, beaches, historical landmarks, cultural events, people, and more. Do yourself a favor and transfer your images to this portable hard drive so you won’t lose anything if your device is lost, stolen, or damaged.

View on Amazon.com

What to Wear in Taiwan

Taiwan Taiwan is situated in a tropical climate zone, so it’s usually warm to hot year throughout the year. You’ll want to protect your eyes with a quality pair of UV protection sunglasses or sun visor, and your head with a breathable bucket or trucker hat. A colorful short sleeve dry performance T-shirt, drawstring shorts, and comfortable walking shoes should have you feeling loose and relaxed in the heat.

And because Taiwan is an island, you can expect—no, you should plan to visit a beach or two on your trip, which means don’t forget to bring along a pair of flip flops or quick dry water shoes. For the wet months—July through September—make sure to pack a lightweight rain jacket.

What WOMEN should wear in Taiwan – (Click to expand)

Below is a sample women’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

The average annual temperature in Taiwan is about 70 degrees, so don’t hesitate to pull out a crop top to go along with a gorgeous midi skirt or waist dress that can take you to lunch, the beach, and dinner in the same day. If you prefer to show off more of your legs, that’s perfectly fine; Taiwanese women tend to flaunt their legs versus their upper body. You’ll fit right in with a pair of high waist denim or fleece shorts.

If you’re planning to explore any one of Taiwan’s endless mountains, throw on a great pair of hiking boots, cargo pants or shorts, with a breathable bucket hat. And you absolutely cannot leave Taiwan without catching up on some R & R at a hot spring, so prep a sexy swimsuit and sandals or crocs.

What MEN should wear in Taiwan – (Click to expand)

Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Unless you’re young, Taiwanese men generally do not dress flashy or flaunt their wealth. You’ll find that a casual and business casual approach is the best way to blend in. With that, you can’t go wrong tossing on a colorful Polo T-shirt and jeans when exploring tourist attractions and cultural landmarks. Should you want to feel looser and more comfortable while on the go, throw on some drawstring walking shorts and a breathable short sleeve button down t-shirt. You’ll also need to prepare a lightweight rain jacket to keep you dry during the occasional rain showers in the summer.

Packing for the Seasons in Taiwan

Winter – December, January, February

Taiwan’s winters are never freezing cold. Temperatures typically range between 50-65 degrees, which is still enjoyable enough to do most activities. The best traditional activity to experience in winter is the Chinese New Year, which is held in late January or February. Bring jeans, long-sleeve T-shirts, and a thin jacket. You’ll also want to include some button-down shirts for the business casual look when you’re celebrating with locals.

Spring – March, April, May

These are the hottest months in Taiwan with average temperatures falling between 80-90 degrees. And due to its tropical climate, typhoons and rainfall are much more prevalent during this time of year. Bring your drawstring walking shorts and breathable T-shirts. Throw on a pair of UV protection sunglasses and a trucker hat. Have your swimsuit or trunks ready and pack a lightweight rain jacket as well.

Summer – June, July, August

Fall – September, October, November

Fall is the most pleasant time to visit Taiwan. Temperatures usually fall within the 70s, making way for the best time to partake in outdoor activities like hikes, bike rides, and shopping at night markets. Pack some lightweight jogger pants and casual t-shirts for fun activities during the day. At night, throw on your coordinated pieces and button-down t-shirts that can take you to dinner, shopping, and a nightlife venue or two.

What NOT to Bring to Taiwan

1. DON'T BRING a Closed Mind

There are just some regions of the world where food, hygiene, politics, lifestyle, cityscape, and traditions are completely different from what you’ve grown up in. In Taiwan, for instance, rice is a common staple food eaten with nearly every meal. Pork, not beef, is consumed regularly. Toilet paper is not always flushed down the toilet — it’s folded and put in the trash. Be open to new experiences, even if they’re not something you were accustomed to growing up.

2. DON'T PACK Just 1 Pair of Shoes

It’s awfully hard to find a pair of shoes larger than size 10 in Taiwan. You won’t want to have damaged your sole pair and spend your vacation browsing shopping sites and store hopping. That gives me a headache just thinking about it!

3. DON'T BRING a Debate Over China vs. Taiwan vs. Hong Kong

In China, many expats know not to openly discuss the three T’s: Taiwan, Tiananmen Square, and Tibet, due to their sensitive political nature. Taiwan, for example, along with Hong Kong, is a special administrative region of China that is independently governed from the ROC. Because of this, many Taiwanese argue for separation from China while many Chinese mainland citizens hold firm beliefs that Taiwan unquestionably belongs to China.

4. Just Your Original Travel Documents (Bring Copies)

Anytime you travel abroad it’s important to bring copies of all your important travel documents, like your passport, IDs, visa, debit/credit cards, and hotel reservations. If your luggage is lost or stolen in Taiwan, you can at least use the copies to apply for any replacements you’ll need to get back home.

FAQs About Taiwan Travel

1. When’s the best time of the year visit Taiwan?

The best time to visit Taiwan is in the fall, from September to November, or during Spring, March through May. Temperatures are cool to warm/hot during these months (60-80 degrees), while summer is scorching hot and winter averages 50-65 degrees.

2. What are the top things to do in Taiwan?

Taiwan is loaded with experiences, activities, attractions, landmarks, and beautiful natural scenery at every turn. Here’s a general list of top things to do in Taiwan, with a few specific locations to experience them:

Hot Springs
Yangmingshan National Park, Beitou Hot Spring

Night Markets/Local Foods
Raohe Night Market, Liuhe Night Market, Shilin Market, Feng Chia Night Market

Hiking/Natural Scenery
Alishan Mountain, Maokong, Huandao, Qinjing Farm, Taroko National Park

Scenic Bike Rides
Sun Moon Lake Loop, Riverside Bikeway, Siang Shan Bikeway

Beach
Qixing Tan Beach, Baishawan Beach, Kenting Baishawan

Teahouse
Jiufen, Yao Yue, 1000 People Brew Tea

Cultural Sites
Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, Rainbow Village, Dr. Sun Ya-Sen Memorial Hall, Taipei Confucius Temple, Dragon & Tiger Pagodas, Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, Taiwan Indigenous Culture Park

Architecture
Taipei 101, 85 Sky Tower, National Taichung Theatre

Festivals
Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival, Spring Scream Music Festival, Taiwan International Balloon Festival

3. Is English used in Taiwan? If not, how can I prepare for my trip?

Mandarin is the official language of Taiwan. English is not commonly spoken in Taiwan, but you can find more English speakers in the capital, Taipei. You can prepare for your trip to Taiwan by downloading English translation apps like Google Translate and purchasing a pocket dictionary and phrase books for Mandarin.

4. What’s Taiwan famous for?

Taiwan is famous for Taipei 101, hiking, bike rides, bubble tea, beef noodles, street snacks, seafood, night markets, hot springs, temples, and beaches, and is the home base for Acer and Asus computers and bike manufacturers Giant and Merida.

5. What kind of transportation does Taiwan have?

You can get around Taiwan by taxi, bus, subway (some cities), railway, scooter, car rental, bike, and boat.

6. Where can I go shopping in Taiwan?

Night markets like Shilin and Yizhong Street are great places to go shopping in Taiwan. However, if you’re looking for more high-end stores or something specific, Taiwan is jam-packed with shopping streets/districts, department stores, commercial outlets, and malls. You can also find more local goodies at traditional markets.

7. What are the most popular festivals in Taiwan?

Taiwan hosts a number of festivals annually, from music and culture to historical and food. Some popular festivals to attend in Taiwan are:

Chinese New Year
Dragon Boat Festival
Taiwan Lantern Festival
Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival
Zhongyuan festival
Yenshui Fireworks Festival
Launching of the Water Lanterns
Mid-Autumn Festival
Grappling with the Ghost
Mazu Birthday and Pilgrimage

27 Top Taiwan Packing List Items for 2026 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

Table of contents

What to Pack for Taiwan – 27 Essentials

1. International Travel Adapter

2. Waterproof Phone Pouch

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

4. Packing Cubes

5. Portable Charger

6. Travel Insurance for Taiwan

7. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

8. Slip-on Waterproof Shoes

9. Water-Resistant Shoe Bags

10. Neck Wallet

11. High-Quality Filtered Bottle

12. Deodorant Wipes

13. Windproof Umbrella

14. Face Mask

15. Hanging Toiletry Bag

16. Activated Charcoal

17. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

18. Taiwan eSIM Data Service (Avoid Roaming Fees!)

19. Discounted Tickets on Top Taiwan Attractions

20. Affordable Underwater Camera

21. Floating Wrist Strap

22. Luggage Straps

23. Bluetooth Earphones

24. Cooling Towel

25. Pocket-Sized Travel Blanket

26. Airborne Immunity Support Medicine

27. Portable Hard Drive

Other Taiwan Packing List Items Not to Forget

What to Wear in Taiwan

Packing for the Seasons in Taiwan

Winter – December, January, February

Spring – March, April, May

Summer – June, July, August

Fall – September, October, November

What NOT to Bring to Taiwan

1. DON'T BRING a Closed Mind

2. DON'T PACK Just 1 Pair of Shoes

3. DON'T BRING a Debate Over China vs. Taiwan vs. Hong Kong

4. Just Your Original Travel Documents (Bring Copies)

FAQs About Taiwan Travel

1. When’s the best time of the year visit Taiwan?

2. What are the top things to do in Taiwan?

3. Is English used in Taiwan? If not, how can I prepare for my trip?

4. What’s Taiwan famous for?

5. What kind of transportation does Taiwan have?

6. Where can I go shopping in Taiwan?

7. What are the most popular festivals in Taiwan?

Asher Fergusson

Other Asia packing lists you may like…

Be the first to know when we publish new research studies