To pack for this trip remember that
you may have to carry your luggage for quite a distance.
Therefore, it is not recommended to pack more than you
can carry comfortably. It is essential to pack light.
An old traveler's adage states, "Lay out what you
think you'll need, and then take one-half of it."
Choose clothing you can get the maximum ear. Never pack
two items when one will do.
Even though you will be no where near
the limit on luggage for the airline, it is important
to mention that for both going and coming back, Air
China limits you to a maximum of two suitcases, each
weighing less than 70 lbs. Also, you will be limited
to only one carry-on bag. There will be substantial
charges for overweight luggage. Air China has very strict
regulations.
Remember that as you travel your luggage
is likely to increase in weight as you purchase gifts
and souvenirs. For extra items, which you will accumulate
on the trip, you should consider packing an empty duffel
bag in your main piece of luggage. Again, it is important
that traveling light will ensure that you enjoy your
trip.
Bring clothing, which is light and
does not wrinkle easily. Apparel, which can be hand
washed and dry easily, are ideal. It is prudent to remember
that such clothing as jeans, sweatshirts, and sweatpants
are difficult to wash and take a great deal of time
to dry.
Make a list of the essentials items,
which you want to pack so as not to leave something
important at home.
China uses 220 Volt electric current.
If you wish to take electrical appliances, i.e., hair
dryer, electric toothbrush, iron, lens cleaner, etc.,
you must have the proper adapter and transformer to
run them. If you can possibly live without such conveniences,
it would be far better to leave at home. If not, please
make certain that you have the proper converter.
We recommend that you leave your valuables
at home. Jewelry and fancy gadgets can cause problems
with customs, which can result in delays. It is wise
not to pack anything you cannot afford to loose.
Spending money - The cost of all meals,
lodging, and transportation are included in the cost
of the trip. We suggest that students bring a maximum
of $300 - $400 for gifts and souvenirs and incidentals.
Duty is charged for gifts, which exceed the above-mentioned
amount. Incidental expenses will be for such things
as: stamps, postcards, sodas, bottled water, film, telephone
calls, and toiletries. It is best to bring a small amount
of cash. Traveler's Checks are easy to convert in China,
and are replaceable in the event they are lost.
Cameras and photographic equipment,
i.e., camera and/or camcorder, can be brought on the
trip. The photo opportunities in China are endless and
photos are a great way to remember your trip. Keep in
mind that you will have to carry what you bring. Also,
be sure to bring plenty of roles of film (8 rolls of
36 exposures will probably suffice). Although film is
available in China, it is not always the best quality,
and is often rather expensive. You should also remember
to bring extra batteries. Camera batteries in China
are difficult to find and are not the highest quality.
You should bring a few items to introduce
yourself and American culture to your new.
Chinese friends. Items such as postcards, personal
pictures, etc. will serve as tokens and gestures of
friendship.
You may also want to bring things that
will help you to feel comfortable abroad. Within reasonable
limit, you may want to bring a few American comic books,
cassette tapes or CDs, favorite snacks, and small musical
instruments. You should not eat your snacks while staying
with host families since this gesture will be considered
disrespectful of the family. To bring such items on
your trip will ease your feelings of being homesick.
It is a good will gesture to bring
small gifts for your Chinese hosts and friends. Items
with personal and sentimental value, carries more meaning
than things, which are expensive.
It is highly recommended to coordinate
your packing with your friends whereby you can share
certain things like shampoo, toothpaste, converter,
hair dryer, etc.
Suggested Packing List Clothing
1 light waterproof jacket, which can also serve as
rain gear
1 lightweight sweater or sweatshirt
1 heavy sweater
1 turtleneck
4 to 5 T-shirts
1 pair of long pants
1 semi-dress set of clothing (girls - a dress or skirt;
boys - a button-down short sleeve shirt
1 pair of slacks, and comfortable shoes)
8 changes of underwear
Nightwear
Shoes
1 pair of sneakers
1 pair of thongs, flip-flops
6 pairs of socks
Note: Chinese culture, especially in the rural areas
tends to be more conservative than the West. Clothing
apparel such as women's shorts and shirtless men are
not advisable in such areas.
Other Essentials
1 medium size lightweight towel
1 face towel
Tooth brush and tooth paste
Shampoo, soap and sunscreen
1 small laundry bag
Personal medical items and any special medications
Over-the-counter cold or allergy medications
Toiletries particularly feminine hygiene
Brush & comb
Deodorant
Small container of liquid laundry detergent
Insect repellents
Optional
Wet hand wipes
Scarf
Sunglasses
Pictures of your family and friends
Address book
Journal
Water bottle
Vitamins
Playing cards and small travel games
Batteries
Musical instruments
Swiss army knife
Small first aide kit
Camera film, camera batteries
Small packet of Kleenex
Books or magazines (these can add weight)
Dried fruit or trail mix
Gum
Candy
Cool-aid or ice tea drink mix
Suggested Gift Items (Think small and
light)
Pictures and postcards
T-shirts
Trading pins or buttons
Cassette tapes
American chocolates and candies
Books or magazines
To pack for this trip remember that
you may have to carry your luggage for quite a distance.
Therefore, it is not recommended to pack more than you
can carry comfortably. It is essential to pack light.
An old traveler's adage states, "Lay out what you
think you'll need, and then take one-half of it."
Choose clothing you can get the maximum ear. Never pack
two items when one will do. 