Welcome to Hong Kong in the Spring!
Travel Dates: March, April, May
Spring in Hong Kong can be warm and humid, with a good chance of rain, especially in May. Lightweight and breathable clothing like short sleeve shirts and skirts will keep you comfortable during the day. Since rain is frequent, especially in April and May, pack a light rain jacket or carry a small umbrella. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the city’s busy streets and markets, and don’t forget a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun on clearer days. A light jacket or sweater is also useful for cooler evenings or air-conditioned indoor spaces.
Dress Code
Hong Kong is a bustling metropolis with a mix of modern and traditional elements, so you’ll see a variety of styles. During the day, casual and comfortable attire like shorts, skirts, and casual dresses work well for sightseeing and shopping. For evenings, especially if you’re dining out or visiting higher-end areas like Central or Tsim Sha Tsui, smart casual attire is more appropriate—a nice dress or stylish top with pants will fit in perfectly. Comfortable shoes are essential for navigating the city’s busy streets, and don’t be afraid to embrace lightweight layers for the humid weather.
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MARCH
61 – 71F (16 – 22C)
Mild, cloudy, with occasional rain
2.9 inches of rain
APRIL
67 – 77F (19 – 25C)
Warm, humid, with scattered showers
5.2 inches of rain
MAY
73 – 82F (23 – 28C)
Warm, humid, with frequent rain
11.0 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for staying cool in Hong Kong’s warm spring weather. I loved having these for exploring the city’s vibrant streets.
2. Tank Tops: Perfect for those particularly warm and humid days when you want to stay extra cool.
3. Light Jacket: Necessary for cooler evenings or air-conditioned indoor spaces.
4. Rain Jacket: Essential for the frequent spring showers, keeping you dry while you explore the city.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Shorts: Comfortable and practical for the warm weather, perfect for casual outings and exploring markets. These were great for walking along the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront.
2. Pants: A lightweight pair of pants is useful for cooler evenings or when you want to be a bit more covered up.
3. Skirt: A stylish option for casual days spent shopping or visiting cultural sites.
4. Dress: A versatile piece that can be dressed up or down, ideal for a day of sightseeing or an evening out.
5. Jumpsuit: Great for a chic, all-in-one outfit that’s comfortable and perfect for Hong Kong’s eclectic style.
6. Leggings: Ideal for layering or for a comfortable option on cooler days. I liked having leggings for relaxing after a day of exploring.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for exploring Hong Kong’s busy streets and markets. I found these to be really practical for long days on my feet.
2. Flats: A stylish yet comfortable option for warmer days, perfect for casual outings.
3. Sandals: Ideal for keeping cool during the hot days, especially when visiting parks or outdoor attractions.
4. Sunglasses: A must to protect your eyes from the strong spring sun.
5. Hat: Essential for sun protection during outdoor activities.
6. Swimsuit: Necessary if you plan to visit a beach or hotel pool.
7. Pajamas: Lightweight and comfortable sleepwear for warm spring nights.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Ideal for a weekend trip, with enough room for your essentials and a few outfits.
2. Daypack: Useful for carrying water, snacks, and extra layers while exploring the city or visiting nearby islands.
3. Purse: Handy for carrying your essentials when going out for dinner or shopping.
4. Tote Bag: Great for carrying additional layers or purchases from local shops.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Layering is useful: Hong Kong’s spring weather can vary, with cool mornings and warm afternoons, so pack layers to stay comfortable.
- Rain gear: Rain is frequent in spring, so a light rain jacket or small umbrella is essential.
- Comfortable footwear: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, whether in the markets or along the waterfront, so bring comfortable shoes.
- Sun protection: Even on cloudy days, the sun can be strong, so pack sunglasses and a hat.
Hong Kong Spring Travel FAQs
WHICH SPRING MONTH IS THE BEST TO VISIT HONG KONG?
March is the best month to visit Hong Kong during spring, with mild temperatures and less rain compared to April and May.
WHAT SPRING FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN HONG KONG?
March: Hong Kong Arts Festival – A prestigious event featuring international and local performances in music, dance, and theatre, held at various venues across the city.
March: Cheung Chau Bun Festival – A traditional festival on Cheung Chau Island featuring parades, lion dances, and the iconic bun tower climb.
April: Hong Kong Sevens – One of the most popular rugby events in the world, attracting teams and fans from around the globe to Hong Kong Stadium.
April: Ching Ming Festival – A traditional Chinese festival where families pay respects to their ancestors by visiting graves and making offerings.
May: Buddha’s Birthday – A celebration with rituals and festivities at temples across Hong Kong, including the famous Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN HONG KONG IN THE SPRING?
Spring in Hong Kong is the perfect time to explore the city’s diverse attractions and vibrant culture. Start your day with a trip to Victoria Peak for breathtaking views of the city skyline and harbor. Spend the afternoon exploring the bustling streets of Tsim Sha Tsui, visiting the Avenue of Stars and the Hong Kong Space Museum. Take a ferry ride to Lantau Island to see the Tian Tan Buddha and explore Ngong Ping Village. In the evening, enjoy the Symphony of Lights show from the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront, and then head to a local restaurant for some authentic Cantonese cuisine. If you’re visiting in April, don’t miss the Hong Kong Sevens, a world-renowned rugby event that brings the city to life.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT HONG KONG IN THE SPRING?
A 5-7 day visit is ideal for experiencing the best of Hong Kong in the spring, including its cultural events, shopping, and outdoor activities.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: Day 1: Start with a morning visit to Victoria Peak for panoramic views, followed by exploring the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront and the Avenue of Stars. Spend the afternoon visiting the Hong Kong Museum of History, then enjoy dinner in Central. Day 2: Take a ferry to Lantau Island in the morning to see the Tian Tan Buddha and explore Ngong Ping Village. In the afternoon, visit Hong Kong Disneyland or shop in Causeway Bay, and end the day with the Symphony of Lights show at the waterfront.
5 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 2-day schedule. Add: Day 3: Explore the markets in Mong Kok, including the Ladies’ Market and the Temple Street Night Market. In the afternoon, visit the Hong Kong Museum of Art, and in the evening, take a harbor cruise to see the city lights. Day 4: Spend the morning at the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens, followed by lunch in SoHo. In the afternoon, visit Man Mo Temple and explore the Mid-Levels Escalator area. Day 5: Take a day trip to Cheung Chau Island for the Bun Festival (if visiting in March), or spend the day hiking the Dragon’s Back Trail for stunning coastal views.
1 Week: Copy the itinerary of the 5-day schedule. Add: Day 6: Visit the Wong Tai Sin Temple in the morning, then spend the afternoon shopping in Sham Shui Po, known for its electronics and fashion bargains. In the evening, enjoy a meal at one of the city’s Michelin-starred dim sum restaurants. Day 7: Take a day trip to Macau, exploring its historic center, visiting the Ruins of St. Paul’s, and trying your luck at one of the casinos.
10 Days: Copy the itinerary of the 1-week schedule. Add: Day 8: Explore the cultural sites of Kowloon, including the Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden. In the afternoon, visit the Jade Market and Flower Market in Mong Kok. Day 9: Spend the day on a boat tour of the outlying islands, visiting places like Peng Chau or Lamma Island for hiking and seafood. Day 10: Revisit your favorite spots or discover new areas, ending with a final dinner at one of Hong Kong’s top-rated restaurants.
2 Weeks: Copy the itinerary of the 10-day schedule. Add: Day 11: Visit the Hong Kong Heritage Museum in Sha Tin, followed by a visit to the Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery. Day 12: Take a day trip to Sai Kung for hiking, seafood, and visiting the geopark. Day 13: Spend the day exploring the cultural sites of Tuen Mun, including the Tsing Shan Monastery and the Gold Coast. Day 14: Spend your final day revisiting favorite spots, shopping for souvenirs, or enjoying one last meal at your favorite Hong Kong restaurant.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN HONG KONG?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Tank Top
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Pair of Shorts
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
5 Days
- 3 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Tank Tops
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Pair of Shorts
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Dress
- 1 Jumpsuit
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
1 Week
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Tank Tops
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Pair of Shorts
- 1 Skirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 1 Jumpsuit
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
10 Days
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Tank Tops
- 1 Light Jacket
- 2 Pairs of Shorts
- 1 Skirt
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
2 Weeks
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Tank Tops
- 1 Light Jacket
- 2 Pairs of Shorts
- 2 Skirts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 3 Dresses
- 2 Jumpsuits
- 1 Pair of Comfortable Walking Shoes
- 1 Pair of Flats
- 1 Hat
- 1 Swimsuit
- 1 Pair of Pajamas
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR HONG KONG IN THE SPRING?
Heavy Winter Coats: Hong Kong’s spring weather is warm, so a heavy coat will not be necessary.
High Heels: The city’s busy streets and markets are better navigated in comfortable, flat shoes.
Thick Sweaters: The temperatures are warm and humid, so thick sweaters will likely be too warm.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO HONG KONG IN THE SPRING?
Airfare: $500 – $1,500, depending on the departure location and booking time.
Accommodation: $150 – $400 per night, with variations based on the location and hotel class.
Transportation: $40 – $100 for local travel, including MTR passes and Ubers.
Meals: $50 – $150 per day, depending on dining choices.
Activities: $30 – $120 for event entrance fees, tours, and other activities.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN HONG KONG? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is not customary in Hong Kong, but it’s appreciated for exceptional service. In restaurants, a 10% service charge is often included in the bill, so additional tipping is not necessary. For taxi drivers and hotel staff, rounding up the fare or giving a small tip (around HKD 10-20) is sufficient.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT HONG KONG BEFORE I VISIT?
- Hong Kong’s spring weather can be unpredictable: Always be prepared for sudden rain, so keep your rain gear handy.
- Public transportation is efficient: Consider using the MTR to navigate the city, especially during peak hours.
- The city is very walkable: Bring comfortable shoes and be ready to explore on foot.
- Plan for crowds: Hong Kong is densely populated, so expect crowds in popular areas and book tickets and reservations in advance.