PRACTICAL GUIDE

China hotel pools: what swimwear to pack

Bring familiar swimwear and a compact backup, then confirm the hotel’s own dress, cap and access rules.

Article updated .
THE SHORT ANSWER

Pack opaque, secure swimming briefs, fitted swim shorts and a cap. Ask the hotel which are accepted and check hours, guest access, reservations and charges. Use a cover-up outside the pool/changing area and change into the backup if staff require it.

PRACTICAL STEPS

Wear the swimwear you use at home, then check the hotel’s own pool rule

Pack your usual opaque, secure swimming briefs, plus fitted swim shorts and a cap as compact backups. Ask the hotel about its pool’s dress and access rules before your swim, and change into the backup if staff require it.

Ask the hotel before packing or changing

Use swimming briefs in the pool and changing area, and put on a cover-up or normal clothes for the lobby, lifts and restaurants. The practical question is what the pool accepts, rather than whether every guest wears the same style.

To settle packing before departure, send this card to the hotel’s official contact. Otherwise show it at pool reception before changing. Confirm the rules for the property and your booking.

泳池允许男士穿紧身三角泳裤吗? 如果不允许,可以穿贴身平角泳裤吗?需要戴泳帽吗? 请问泳池开放时间、住店客人是否可以使用、是否需要预约或另外付费?

Does the pool allow men’s brief-style swimwear? If not, are fitted swim shorts allowed, and is a swim cap required? What are the opening hours, guest-access conditions, booking requirements and any extra charge?

Take the briefs, fitted shorts and cap to the pool. If staff asks for a different cut or a cap, change or add the cap. Choose purpose-made fitted swimming shorts for the backup; extra-loose beach shorts are not a substitute for checking the rule.

If the pool is closed, unavailable to your booking, or requires an extra charge, decide whether another session fits your schedule or skip the swim. A pool photo is not an opening-hours guarantee.