What Do I Need?
Departing for another country is always a very nerve-wrecking time. The added stress of study abroad in China comes from the culture being so completely different from that of American culture. People often get caught up in the trip that they forget about essentials that are necessary for getting around in a developing country.
Bags are Packed and ready to go!
What NOT to Bring:
It’s important to know where you’re going and what will be available in said areas. Despite many misconceptions about China, it is easy to find western amenities in any big city that you may be going to. Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, all have a large international community and thus any Wal-Mart (Yes they even have Wal-Mart in China), Metro, or Carrefour will have the basic necessities you will need. If you’re just traveling for a semester, you do not need to bog yourself down with a bunch of stuff you can easily get in China. Clothes, shoes, toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, hairdryers are readily available in China so pack light! Although I brought two bags, I am staying for a year and although I do not bring many clothes (even though I have to pack for 4 seasons), things add up quickly, so if you’re not positive you’ll need something, don’t bring it.
What TO Bring:
Bring lots of medicine!
MEDICINE! Lots and lots of medicine. When traveling to developing countries like China, you WILL get sick. The food is different, the sanitation regulations are different (if they even exist), and the cooking preparation and storage methods are different. Most importantly: The bugs are different. Bugs as in virus’. Being prepared for the sudden strike of 拉肚子 (diarrhea) is important, and trusting Chinese made medicines can be sketchy. I make sure to bring plenty of aspirin, laxatives, anti-laxatives, stomach medicine, and cold medicine. Bring it and do not be afraid to use it so you can be up and running as soon as possible.
Deodorant is also a great idea, but only as long as it isn’t in spray form. Cans of compressed air can be taken from you at any transportation hub for being potentially dangerous (I found this out the hard way), so bring at least two sticks of deodorant instead. It’s hard to find and it’ll keep you smelling fresh! Shaving cream and good razor blades are also a must. You can find razors and shaving cream in China, but it is expensive because most Chinese do not need to shave, and most Chinese ladies do not shave their legs. So be prepared and bring your own. Ladies also may consider bringing a significant amount of feminine hygiene products. You can buy them here, but they may not be as good or as comfortable as ones you can get in America. This isn’t from experience……..I heard it………from a friend…….yeah that’s it.
Socks and underwear are a necessity as well. Chinese made socks are cheap and do not provide enough support as western made, and the same goes for underwear. Stock up! There’s a reason Chinese come to America and bring them back to China, so learn from them. Prepare for the worst