Basic Items
Of course, you should bring your passport and at least 2 copies of it (one for carrying with you and one to give the police when you register), ATM card, important numbers, travel insurance paperwork and a map, not of all of China, but one that's for the city you're staying in first. Print your important number list and travel insurance docs so it's handy in case of emergency. A subway map is also a good idea to have with you so you can plan your route ahead of time if you wish. If possible, make sure you have the mobile number of whoever will meet you at the airport.
Clothing
Most important: two pairs comfortable shoes- one pair like tennis shoes and another pair of not so casual shoes. You will be doing tons of walking. This is no time to test out that new pair of shoes you just purchased.
Windbreaker or other light jacket, one that's waterproof is best.
One to two long sleeve shirts/tops
Three short sleeve shirts/tops
Two pairs pants
One pair jeans
Socks
Underwear
For Men: One dress shirt and tie (if you think you may get dressed up)
For Women: One non wrinkle skirt, like a knit fabric that packs well.
PJs
If it's Summer, also trade out a pair of pants for shorts.
If it's Winter, trade out short sleeved shirts for long sleeves, add a sweater and bring a jacket that still fits you after you're layered up. Wool coats do not work in China and no one wears them for good reason- the wind cuts right though them and things in China seem to get dirty twice as fast. Its best to have something easy to wipe off and keep clean. When I go in the Winter, I'll pack bare bones and mostly layers so that when I arrive I can purchase a down coat. A nice one is about $25 US Dollars. You can also purchase long underwear and heavy socks if you choose to as well.
Spring and Autumn are the nicest times of the year. Be prepared to layer your clothes; it can get be very warm one day and then cold the next day.
Personal Items
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Shampoo/Conditioner
For Women: your method of birth control
Antiperspirant/Deodorant (This is an expensive item in China that isn't worth purchasing there)
Shaving razor
Hand Sanitizer or antibacterial wipes
A small baggie of assorted pain reliever, cold/flu meds and anti-diarreha like Pepto-Bismol tabs. Western brand meds are not available in China.
Perscription Medications
Lotion
And whatever else you think you need...like make-up or that hair care product you can't do without.
If you have any additional suggestions let me know!
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
