Packing List for Your First Trip to China

Traveling to China is an exciting and enriching experience, but traveling without packing the essential items can put you in difficult situations. To make sure your first trip to China is a comfortable and stress-free one, it is important to prepare in advance and pack the right items. In this article, we will provide a list of items to ensure that you are well-prepared for your China tour.

Passport & Visa

The first and most important item on your list should be your passport and visa. Make sure to bring all of your travel documents, as they will be needed throughout your whole trip. To reduce the risk of losing them, it's advisable to keep their electronic version (such as photos and digital copies) and printed copies ready as a backup. A passport holder will also help, which can protect your passport from possible damage.

Headphones & Earplugs

Traveling can sometimes cause you some fatigue, but it's also an opportunity to relax and enjoy the journey. That's where a good pair of headphones or earplugs can be quite useful. You can use them to listen to music, audiobooks, or podcasts, or simply to block out the noise and get some rest when traveling between different destinations.

Headphones

Travel Adapter

You may need a travel adapter or voltage converter. In China, the power sockets are type A, type C, and type I. Type A sockets have two flat pins, type C sockets have two round pins, and type I sockets have two flat pins and one round pin. In terms of voltage, the standard voltage in China is 220V and the standard frequency is 50Hz. If your device does not support this voltage or frequency, you will need a voltage converter.

Power Bank

During your trip, you are likely to use your phone, camera, and other electronic devices more often than usual, which means you will need to charge them more frequently. Also, since you may need to install a VPN on your phone during your trip, it will increase the power consumption on your phone. Additionally, it's essential to ensure that your power bank is fully charged before you leave your accommodation to avoid running out of power during the day.

First-Aid Kit

It's always a good idea to have a first-aid kit with basic supplies and medications on hand, especially when you are in a different country where the availability of medical supplies could differ from your own country. Also, if you happen to have specific medical needs (such as allergies and chronic conditions), be sure to include your medications in this first-aid kit. 

Cash

While credit cards are increasingly accepted in many parts of China, it's wise to have some Renminbi cash as a backup, so that you can shop and purchase souvenirs without any hassle. It's a good idea to have a mix of small and large bills, as some places may not be able to provide change for larger bills. Having cash on hand will also be helpful in case of any unexpected situations.

Chinese Currency

Sanitary Products

Depending on your destination, public toilets may not always offer toilet paper, so it's a good idea to carry your own tissue and ensure that you have what you need to be comfortable. It's worth considering packing some sanitary products (such as antibacterial wipes and hand sanitizer) to offer yourself some health protection while traveling in China.

Toiletries

Although hotels in China will offer guests toiletries (toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.), the ones available in the hotel or local stores may not be the brands you are used to. If you have personal preferences in terms of toiletries, you can pack some of your favorite products to make sure you have a smooth trip. If you are to bring them onto the flight with you, you can either purchase some travel-sized products or transfer toiletries to small containers, so that they can be brought onto the plane safely.

Translation App or Phrasebook

The language barrier isn't something you need to worry about, because when traveling in China, you will enjoy personalized bilingual services offered by us, which include personal tour guides and customized transport services. Nevertheless, a translation app or phrasebook will come in handy if you want to explore a place on your own and interact with the locals.

Comfortable Backpack

A comfortable backpack can be a lifesaver when you're on the go. A versatile bag that allows you to carry all your essentials, such as your phone, wallet, water bottle, snacks, and camera, without feeling weighed down. Moreover, the right backpack should also be adjustable and fit comfortably on your back, preventing any discomfort or back pain. When choosing a backpack, consider one with lightweight, and durable materials to make it practical for your trip.

Suitable Clothing

Depending on the time of year you plan to visit China, the weather and temperature can vary significantly between different scenic areas.

During the summer, lightweight fabrics such as cotton and linen are perfect for keeping cool, while warmer clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and sweaters is ideal for winter. Additionally, comfortable shoes and pajamas are a must for any trip, because you may need to walk for a bit longer than usual, and will stay in new accommodations. Wearing comfortable clothing can help reduce stress and help you sleep better, making it easier for you to adjust to jet lag and get enough rest during the trip.

Comfort Food

Our customized travel services will cover every possible aspect of your trip and take all your needs into consideration, which includes providing light snacks and fresh fruits for you. But if you have your own food preferences, you can pack some bags of your favorite snacks from home as a source of pleasure and enjoyment occasionally. This is a small addition to the packing list but can make you feel prepared for anything ahead.

Hong Kong Local Food

Special Items for Female Visitors

While you can buy feminine hygiene products in China, you can still pack your own, especially if you have specific preferences. Tampons could be a little harder to find in China. If you have a preferred product and plan to pack some, it's best to bring enough for your entire trip to ensure that you're always prepared. In addition to hygiene products, feel free to bring along some of your favorite makeup skincare products, so that you can continue your daily makeup or skincare routine in China.

Special Items for Male Visitors

You can bring your razor and shaving cream or other grooming products you typically use. Of course, these products are all widely available in China, but you can pack your own in case you have brand preferences or are more used to the products you are currently using. Also, you can pack some of your usual skincare products as your skin might be more sensitive than usual when you're in a foreign country.

Let's Get Packing

We hope this article can take some pressure off your mind and give you a clearer idea of what to pack for your first trip to China. Please be reminded that the specific packing list could vary from person to person! Feel free to contact us if you have any China travel ideas or plans. Our dedicated team of travel specialists can provide you with a customized itinerary within 24 hours that suit your needs. We look forward to traveling with you in the near future.