The Ultimate Female Packing List for Taiwan

Planning your first trip and looking for a Taiwan packing list? You’re in the right place! Taiwan is an incredible country with so many beautiful places to see and things to do. 

If it’s your first visit and you’re not sure what to pack, don’t stress—I’ve got your back. I lived in Taiwan for over 13 years, so I’ve seen it all: sticky summers, typhoons, and even snow. That’s exactly why I put together this list—to help you figure out what you actually need to bring (and what you can leave at home).

You definitely don’t need to pack everything on this list, but it’ll give you a solid starting point for planning your trip.

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

What to Pack for Taiwan: Essentials for Your Taiwan Packing List 

Luggage & Bags

• Suitcase: The first must-have item on your Taiwan packing list is a reliable suitcase. Taiwan has an excellent transportation network connecting you to all corners of the island. Bus, train, and metro stations are modern, and there’s really no need to carry around a heavy travel backpack (unless you’re headed to SEA afterward). If you’re searching for a great lightweight spinner suitcase, check out this gorgeous one from Delsey.

• Carry-on Luggage: If you’re only spending a few days in Taiwan or a light packer, then this 21-inch American Tourister carry-on is a great choice.

• Day bag: A small backpack is a must if you plan to hike all the wonderful trails in Taiwan. However, this lightweight rucksack is ideal if you’re only staying in urban areas. It’s waterproof and has multiple compartments. 

• Dry bag: Taiwan is a mecca for adventure sports, especially in places like Hualien and Yilan. Whether you’re into river tracing, canoeing, boating, cliff jumping, or waterfall chasing – the island has it all. If you’re planning to spend time near the water, a dry bag is a smart addition to your Taiwan packing list.

• Packing cubes: If you’re guilty of overpacking like me, using packing cubes will be a real game-changer. Not only will they keep you organized, but you will never have to worry about overpacking again. I use (and recommend) this set of DIMJ packing cubes, which has handy pouches for your clothes, shoes, laundry, and even electronic accessories.

• Jewelry organizer: There’s no need to pack any flashy jewelry pieces for your trip. But if you do want to bring a few essential pieces, this tiny jewelry box is a great option. It fits in your handbag and is perfect for keeping your jewelry from getting tangled up.

• Toiletry/cosmetics bag: If you’re not a big fan of hanging toiletry bags, then this lightweight, translucent toiletry bag is just what you need. Another great way to pack lighter is to invest in refillable travel bottles or jars. 

• Travel wallet: If you like to keep your passport and all your travel documents in one easy-to-find place, this multi-purpose travel wallet is for you.

Electronics & Gadgets

• Portable power bank: A rechargeable power bank is a must to keep your phone juiced up so that you can access all your favorite apps on the go. This slim, fast-charging Anker portable charger has a 10000 mAh battery and a USB-C input. 

• Kindle: To be honest, there are oodles of awesome things to do in Taiwan, and you’ll never be bored. But if you need to catch up on some reading, this Kindle Paperwhite is super lightweight and waterproof. 

• Travel adapter: The standard voltage in Taiwan is 110V with a frequency of 60Hz, and the typical plug types are A and B. Unless you’re from America or Canada, it’s a good idea to pack a good travel adapter. This travel plug works in 160 countries. It also has four USB sockets, so you never have to worry about keeping your devices all charged up. 

• Airpods: If you are a minimal packer and don’t like carrying around bulky headphones, then a good pair of Apple AirPods is just what you need. Not only are they super lightweight, but they have excellent sound quality. 

• Camera: Taiwan is a beautiful country with loads of photo ops around every bend. Don’t forget to pack a good camera to document all your favorite bits. I never go anywhere without my Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II mirrorless camera. It takes gorgeous photos and weighs a lot less than a bulky DSLR. 

• Action Camera/ drone: If you’re looking for a good action camera, you can’t go wrong with a lightweight Go Pro Hero, while this DJI mini drone will take your videography skills to the next level. 

Clothing & Accessories

I’m not going to tell you how many pairs of jeans or sundresses to pack for Taiwan—you’ve probably got that covered. But there are a few essential items that’ll make your trip a whole lot easier.

Before we get to that, though, it’s important to understand the climate. Taiwan has a subtropical climate, which means the weather can vary quite a lot depending on when you visit. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect each season:

• Summer (June – Aug): Summer in Taiwan is scorching hot and humid, with temperatures often hitting 35°C or more during July and August. While summer is a great time to hit the island’s best beaches, it’s not the best time to visit if you’re not used to high humidity. Make sure you pack light, breathable clothing.

• Winter (Dec – Feb): Winter in Taiwan is cold, so pack lots of layers and a warm outer coat. It’s a great time for viewing cherry blossoms and even seeing snow! However, don’t expect to see snow in the cities. During my decade-plus time on the island, I’ve only experienced “falling snowflakes” once in the town where I live. If you’re set on seeing snow, you’ll need to head to Taipingshan or Hehuanshan.

• During spring (March – May) and autumn (Sept—Nov), expect mostly pleasant temperatures ranging between 20-25°C. Evenings can get chilly, so make sure you pack some long-sleeve shirts and a jacket or two.

• However, no matter when you visit Taiwan, be prepared for the rain. May marks the arrival of the plum rains, and it can rain for days! June to October is typhoon season, so don’t rule out torrential rain. 

What Clothes to Pack for Taiwan

• Raincoat: Although you can buy a dirt-cheap throw-away raincoat at just about any convenience store in Taiwan, like Family Mart or 7-Eleven, it’s not good for the environment. If you’re a conscientious traveler, a better bet is to invest in a durable, eco-friendly raincoat that will last you ages. This L-Raincoat is made of TPU, which means it’s not harmful to the environment. Besides being waterproof and tear-resistant, it also dries in a jiffy and has adjustable sleeves. 

• Shoes: When planning what footwear to pack for Taiwan, you’ll need to plan according to your itinerary. With that said, you’ll definitely need to bring along comfortable walking shoes. A good pair of New Balance sneakers will do. However, if you’re looking for something a bit more stylish, check out my post on cute travel sneakers for women. Make sure also to pack some flip-flops if you’re visiting the offshore islands or beaches, and nice sandals for hot evenings.

• Hiking shoes: If you’re going to hike Taiwan’s gorgeous hiking trails or pop by its epic waterfalls, then you’ll also need a good pair of slip-proof hiking shoes.  

• Sun hat: Whether you’re going hiking in Taroko Gorge, visiting Fulong Beach near Taipei, or going island-hopping in the Penghu archipelago, you’re going to need a good hat to protect you from the harsh rays. A beautiful straw hat is perfect for beach days, while a Trailheads women’s cap is a must-have hiking accessory.

• A scarf/ light pashmina: It is not necessarily a must-have item on your packing list for Taiwan, but it can be handy on breezy evenings or if you need some extra shade in the sun. 

• Swimsuit: There are loads of beautiful beaches in Taiwan, and many hotels have dreamy pools perfect for cooling off after a day out exploring. So don’t forget to include a swimsuit on your packing list for Taiwan! Just a quick side note though, Taiwanese are quite modest in their beach attire, and you’re likely to stick out in your favorite string bikini. Opt for a nice one-piece or a high-rise bikini to blend in more. 

• UV jacket: With temperatures reaching up to 35°C, Taiwan’s summers can be relentless. If you’re going to spend lots of time outside or get sunburnt easily, pack a light UV jacket to protect you from the sun’s rays.

• Sweater/ light jacket: The best time to visit Taiwan is during spring and autumn. While you’ll miss most of the heat, evenings can be cool. Pack a light sweater or jacket for the occasional cloudy day or breezy evening. Also, if you’re going to use public transport like the THSR, expect the AC to be cranked up! 

• Down jacket: If you’re visiting during winter, you’ll need to pack a good coat to keep you warm. January is the coldest month, and temperatures can dip into the single digits. A UNIQLO down jacket will keep you warm, while this Columbia Women’s Long Hooded Jacket is perfect if you’re looking for something warmer and water-resistant. 

Essential Travel Accessories & Toiletries

• Refillable water bottle: It’s not safe to drink tap water in Taiwan, so it’s key to have a reusable water bottle that you can refill at your hotel or hostel’s water dispenser. I always travel with my Hydy water bottle, but these ones from S’well also get great reviews. If you need to save space in your luggage, try a collapsible water bottle.

• Bug spray: Mosquitoes can be a real pain in Taiwan, especially in jungle-like areas or near waterfalls like Shifen or Frog Rock. It’s a good idea to always keep a reliable spray on hand. If you already have a brand you trust, bring it with you. Otherwise, you can pick up something decent—like Burt’s Bees—at Poya. Just avoid the cheap sprays from 7-Eleven. They don’t work and aren’t worth it.

• Sunscreen: You can find sunscreen just about everywhere in Taiwan, Watsons, Poya, Cosmed, and even 7-11. But most local brands contain whitening agents that can alter your complexion, and many aren’t waterproof or reef-safe. If that matters to you (it does to me), it’s best to bring your own. I usually buy this Banana Boat’s reef-safe spray, which holds up well in Taiwan’s humid climate and doesn’t harm the ocean. I also love having a Sun Bum face stick on hand—it’s mess-free and perfect for quick top-ups when you’re out and about.

• After-sun or aloe vera: It can be hard to find decent after sun or aloe vera in Taiwan. This TONYMOLY Aloe Chok Soothing Gel is my favorite go-to multi-purpose hydrating gel. It’s formulated with 99% aloe extract and can be used to relieve everything from sunburn and irritated skin to moisturizing damaged hair and dry lips! 

• Microfiber Towel: Unless you’re staying at a high-end hotel or beach resort, it’s unlikely that your accommodation will have beach or pool towels handy. Packing a lightweight, quick-drying towel is a smart move. I love these Bay Laurel Turkish beach towels. I’ve got two and just bought one for my fiancé. 

• Deodorant: Like sunscreen, most deodorants sold in Taiwan contain whitening agents, and the selection can be pretty limited—especially if you’re picky about texture or scent. It’s best to bring your favorite brand from home so you’re not stuck with something you don’t like.

• Hand sanitizer: It’s always a good idea to have hand sanitizer handy when hitting the beach, hiking, or stuffing your face at Taiwan’s epic night markets. Most convenience stores stock hand sanitizer spray and wipes, but you can also find them at beauty stores like Poya, Watsons, or Cosmed.  

• Hairstyling products: You’ll have no trouble finding an array of hair care products in Taiwan, but it’s best to bring your own styling products if you have frizzy hair. 

• Oral Care: There are loads of oral care products in Taiwan, but finding your favorite brand might not be as easy. Colgate toothpaste is practically everywhere, and you can usually find Crest at Watsons, PX Mart, Poya or RT Mart. Pack your favorite brand of toothpaste, dental floss, and mouthwash for a stress-free trip.

• Feminine hygiene products: Like in many parts of Asia, tampons aren’t widely used in Taiwan. You’ll usually only find a limited selection, mainly Kotex or OB, in larger supermarkets or beauty stores. If you have a preferred brand or type, it’s best to bring enough with you.

• Pain killers: You can find Panadol at any Watsons or local pharmacy, but if you suffer from migraines and need something stronger, it’s a good idea to bring it along. 

• First Aid kit: It’s always a good idea to pack a small first-aid kit no matter where you go. 

Travel Insurance

I know no one likes to fork out money for travel cover, but it is the last thing you should skimp on when planning a trip. While Taiwan is particularly safe to visit, you simply cannot predict what will happen on your trip — unless you have a crystal ball, of course. 

Therefore, it’s always best to be over-prepared for unforeseen circumstances. Getting sick, losing your valuables, or missing a flight are just a few things that can ruin your trip. I recommend World Nomads. They offer coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and so much more.

If you’re looking for something a bit more long-term, I also really love SafetyWing. They’re mostly geared at nomads, but I’ve used them for shorter trips to Thailand, Indonesia, and even Turkey.

Disclaimer: World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Guidebooks

Another handy item to include on your Taiwan packing list is a guidebook. It can go a long way in making your Taiwan itinerary more enjoyable. This Lonely Planet offers the best insight into Taiwan’s top sights, history, and customs. For those only planning a Taipei itinerary, this Lonely Planet Taipei pocketbook will come in handy.

Useful Apps to Download Before Your Trip

• Google Translate: The official language in Taiwan is Chinese. English is not spoken widely everywhere, so it can be hard to ask for directions or even order food at times. Make sure you download Google Translate on your phone and check out these 70 essential words & phrases to make your trip easier. It’s also important to note that Taiwan uses Traditional Chinese and not Simplified Chinese like in China. iOS | Android

• Google Maps: If you’re an independent traveler, download Google Maps so that you can plan your stops, check transport modes, and have easy-to-follow directions right at your fingertips. iOS | Android

• Uber Taxi: If you’re only sticking to Taiwan’s bigger cities, Uber is a great way to travel short distances at reasonable prices. iOS | Android. Also read my guide on the best travel apps for Taiwan for more tips.

What not to Pack for Taiwan

• Umbrella: Many packing lists for Taiwan include travel umbrellas. So let me just set the record straight. While Taiwan’s weather can be downright unpredictable, and you’ll definitely need an umbrella, you do not necessarily need to pack one for your trip. The reason for this is that many hotels have umbrellas that you can borrow for free. You can also buy an umbrella (and even UV protective umbrellas) at any convenience store islandwide. Umbrellas usually cost between TWD 100 and TWD 350. 

• Lots of makeup: Definitely pack makeup, but don’t overdo it. Taiwan’s weather is hot and muggy, and there’s no way your makeup will stay flawless throughout the day. Instead, opt for BB cream, blush, neutral eyeshadow, eyeliner, mascara, and a nice lip gloss.

• Shampoo: Most hotels and hostels have shampoo, so keep this space for other things unless you have unmanageable hair that needs some extra love. I always travel with my fav Kerastase shampoo that keeps my hair in check. 

• Soap/body wash: Unless you’ve got a special brand, you really don’t need to pack soap or body wash. Similar to shampoo, most hotels will take care of this for you. If not, pop into any convenience store or supermarket where you’ll find an array of products. 

• Face masks: If you love a good face mask, you’re in for a real treat! Face masks are probably one of the easiest things to find in Taiwan. Poya, Watsons, and Cosmed all have a wide variety of masks. But, for the best K-beauty masks, head to Innisfree or Etude House. 

Well, that’s all I’ve got on what to pack for Taiwan! If you think I’ve missed any must-pack items, let me know in the comments below so that I can keep this list updated! 

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