Visiting Hong Kong for a trade exhibition, business meeting, or just to enjoy the city’s vibrant mix of East and West? Whether it’s your first visit or you’ve been here before, being prepared can make a big difference. Planning ahead helps you avoid common issues and allows you to focus on what matters most—making the most of your time in one of Asia’s most connected cities.
This guide provides practical information to help you get ready. It includes visa requirements, what to pack for both work and leisure, how to book flights efficiently, and why travel insurance can be a smart part of your travel plans.
If you want to explore more information on local transportation, hotels, dining, and city highlights, head over to our Visitor Information Hub. It’s a great place to continue your planning and ensure a smooth experience during your stay.
Quick Summary
- Hong Kong allows visa-free stays for over 170 nationalities, but some travelers need to register or apply before arrival.
- Bring business-appropriate clothing, comfortable shoes, tech gear, and casual wear.
- Book flights early, especially during peak exhibition seasons, and consider direct flights into Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA).
- Travel insurance is recommended to cover health, travel delays, and personal items.
Visa Requirements
Before booking your flight or hotel, take a moment to check your visa status. Hong Kong maintains its own immigration system, separate from mainland China. This means that many nationalities can enter without a visa for short stays.
Currently, Hong Kong offers visa-free access to more than 170 countries and regions. Length of stay varies by passport:
- United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and most EU countries: 90 days
- Australia, New Zealand: 90 days
- Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan: 90 days
- Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia: 14–30 days
- India: Must complete online Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR) valid for 6 months
The visa-free period is usually sufficient for business events, short exhibitions, and tourism. If you plan to stay longer or intend to work, check whether a different type of visa or permit is needed.
You can check your country’s eligibility on the Hong Kong Immigration Department website, which also provides guidance for how to apply if needed.
Tip: Print or save a copy of your hotel confirmation and return flight information, as these may be requested upon entry.
Packing Essentials
Your packing list should be heavily influenced by the season of your visit. For business travelers, understanding how to approach planning for event weather is key to being prepared for both the exhibition hall and after-hours activities.
Here’s what to consider bringing:
Check the Weather
Weather in Hong Kong can be unpredictable. Summer is hot and humid with a chance of typhoons, while winter is cool and dry. A light waterproof jacket may come in handy regardless of the season.
Business Attire
Pack at least one or two professional outfits for meetings or exhibition days. Hong Kong business dress tends to be formal. For men, this usually means a collared shirt and long pants; for women, modest dresses or business separates work well. If you’re participating in an event or speaking on stage, bring one slightly more formal outfit.
Comfortable Footwear
Many exhibitions are held in large halls where you may be on your feet for several hours. Even though style matters, comfort should be a priority—especially if you’re walking between venues or through large conference centers.
Casual Wear for Free Time
After business hours, Hong Kong has plenty to offer—night markets, scenic spots, and local restaurants. Bring casual clothes suitable for walking or outdoor exploration. Light, breathable fabric is ideal if you’re visiting in the warmer months (May–September).
Universal Adapter and Voltage
Hong Kong uses the British-style three-pronged plug (Type G) with 220V, 50Hz power. If your devices use a different plug type or voltage, pack a universal adapter and voltage converter if necessary.
Tech Accessories
Don’t forget chargers, cables, and a portable power bank. Some older buildings may not have many outlets, and you might need to recharge on the go.
Personal Items and Medications
Pack your daily medications along with prescriptions in case you need to explain them at customs or refill while traveling. A small first aid kit with basic supplies like plasters, headache relief, or hand sanitizer can also be helpful.
Flight Arrangements
Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is one of Asia’s largest air travel hubs and is well connected to cities around the world. Booking the right flight can make your arrival much smoother.
Book Early During Peak Seasons
Trade shows and exhibitions attract thousands of visitors. Fairs like the Hong Kong Electronics Fair, Art Basel, or the Jewellery and Gem Fair often lead to a spike in flight and hotel prices. As soon as your travel dates are confirmed, book your flight and accommodations.
Flight Times Matter
Arriving during the day makes it easier to navigate the city. Airport services, public transportation, and hotel check-ins tend to operate more smoothly between 9 am and 6 pm. If you’re arriving late at night, double-check that your hotel has a 24-hour front desk or arrange for a shuttle in advance.
Direct Flights vs. Stopovers
If you’re coming from a major city, direct flights are available from places like New York, London, Singapore, Tokyo, and Sydney. Direct flights may cost a little more, but they cut down significantly on travel stress and fatigue.
Know Your Baggage Rules
Each airline has its own baggage policy, and business travelers often carry extra materials like product samples, brochures, or equipment. Check your fare’s baggage limit, and consider paying for additional luggage in advance if needed.
Once you have your flights booked into Hong Kong International Airport, the next step is to familiarize yourself with the arrival process. Our comprehensive Hong Kong International Airport Guide covers everything from navigating the terminals to finding ground transportation, ensuring a smooth start to your trip.
Travel Insurance
Nobody expects problems when traveling—but if something goes wrong, being insured can save you a lot of stress and money.
Medical Expenses
Hong Kong’s public and private healthcare systems are excellent, but they aren’t free. Without insurance, even a short visit to a private clinic can be costly. Check that your travel insurance covers outpatient and emergency medical care.
Trip Interruptions
Missed flights, cancellations, or delays happen—especially during typhoon season (June to October). Some policies cover refunds or alternative arrangements if your trip is disrupted by weather or other events.
Lost or Stolen Belongings
Crowded exhibition centers and busy streets can create opportunities for theft or misplacement. Insurance can reimburse you for lost luggage, passports, and tech devices.
Policy Checklist
When choosing a plan, make sure it covers the length of your stay, includes all countries on your itinerary (if you’re visiting more than one), and protects against both medical and non-medical issues.
For the latest advice, the Hong Kong Tourism Board provides updated resources for travelers.
Get Ready with Confidence
Getting ready for a trip to Hong Kong doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right information and planning, you’ll arrive prepared and confident—whether you’re heading to the AsiaWorld-Expo, visiting the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, or squeezing in some sightseeing.
Have a great trip, and we look forward to welcoming you to Hong Kong.