There's just one week left until the October holiday, and if you’re planning to travel during your time off, we have some travel essentials that you should collect before you set off! Below, we’ve listed ten items we believe are indispensable, along with their Chinese names to help you easily locate them on Taobao or your favorite shopping app.
**Multi-Adaptor**
With three different types of plug sockets, China is a clear example of why a multi-adaptor can be incredibly useful. Owning one means you won’t have to manage numerous adaptors or worry about bringing the wrong one. A quality multi-adaptor typically supports most countries worldwide and often includes built-in USB ports.
Search for: 全球通用转换插头 (quánqiú tōngyòng zhuǎnhuàn chātóu)
**Slim Power Bank**
While it might seem obvious, it’s worth noting that outside China, you won’t find power bank rental kiosks in every bar, restaurant, or on street corners. Some power banks can be bulky, which is where the slim version becomes handy. Numerous slim power banks available on Taobao fit comfortably in your pocket (at least in men's pockets). Make sure to look for the “3C” label and check that it meets other requirements before you buy. You can find more information about specific power bank regulations here and here.
Search for: 超薄充电宝 (chāobáo chōngdiànbǎo)
**Fold-Out Toiletry Bag**
Stop rummaging through a chaotic toiletry bag. A fold-out bag keeps everything organized and visible, with multiple compartments that unfold like a mini bathroom cabinet. You can hang it on the back of a door or over a towel rack, giving you an instantly orderly and accessible setup. Most are waterproof, preventing leaks, and you can easily fold it back into a compact pouch for packing at the end of your trip.
Search for: 洗漱包干湿分离 (xǐshù bāo gān shī fēnlí)
**Packing Cubes**
Having just returned from the UK where I spent a month living out of a suitcase, packing cubes were at the top of my list of items to buy on Taobao when I got back to Beijing. There are many different sets available that help separate clean clothes from dirty, underwear from other garments, and even include a bag for shoes. No need to dig around desperately searching for that last clean pair of socks you know you packed!
Search for: 分装收纳袋 (fēnzhuāng shōunà dài)
**Travel Towel**
This is essential if you’re staying in a hostel or hotel that doesn’t provide towels or if you're going on a beach holiday and need to avoid carrying a large, cumbersome towel. While these towels may not feel as luxurious as regular towels, they are thin, compact, and dry much faster.
Search for: 速干毛巾 (sù gān máojīn)
**Refillable Toiletry Bottles**
These are ideal if you’re limited to carry-on luggage or prefer not to carry bulky bottles of shampoo, lotion, or other toiletries. While many brands offer mini versions of their products, they tend to be overpriced. Instead, buy a pack of refillable mini bottles and transfer your essential toiletries into them; most sets on Taobao include a free convenient bag for storage.
Search for: 旅行分装瓶 (lǚxíng fēnzhuāng píng)
**Foldable Water Bottle**
A foldable water bottle is handy right from the start. You can bring the collapsed version through airport security and then refill it from a water dispenser right after. Some even feature a clip for attaching to your backpack during hikes or city explorations. They’re eco-friendly and save you from continually buying single-use plastic bottles.
Search for: 折叠水瓶 (zhédié shuǐpíng)
**Cooler Backpack**
If you’re taking a holiday that includes spending plenty of time at the beach or hiking, a cooler backpack is essential. There are numerous options on Taobao that have a separate cooler compartment alongside standard compartments, enabling them to serve as regular backpacks as well—no need to carry an additional bag.
Search for: 野餐保温双肩包 (yěcān bǎowēn shuāngjiān bāo)
**Hair Towel**
This is particularly useful for ladies or men with long hair. Most hotels offer only one large towel and one small hand towel, neither of which is suitable for drying hair, making a dedicated hair towel extremely beneficial. They come in various sizes to accommodate hair lengths and usually fold down compactly, taking up minimal space in your suitcase.
Search for: 干发帽 (
If you're going away for the October holiday, be sure to pick up these items before your trip!