Packing List

1)       You need a lab coat.  If you do not intend to pack one, please let me know, so I can have the school have one ready upon our arrival.  If I remember correctly they are less than $20.

2)       We are gone for 5 weeks and although the hotel has a small laundry guests can use (two machines) you may end up washing clothes in your room, or at least drying them there.  Clothes pins and rope and laundry hangers are cheap and easily available in China.  But remember this when choosing what items to bring, including possibly your own detergent if you have sensitive skin.

3)       I usually bring three outfits mix and matchable and 3 pairs of shoes (flip flops, one dress comfy and one walking/hiking comfy). I also usually bring a hoodie and a waterproof layer.

4)       6-8 small gifts for translators/supervisors. I have brought smoked salmon, small batch local OR liquor, emergen-c and rescue remedy in the past. Others have brought keychains, food products from their hometown, books, other kinds of supplements and tonics, mugs, etc.  Keep it within your means and referencing where you come form in America makes it more meaningful/personal.

5)       If you plan to get a bike, a helmet from home (none really available there) if you feel it’s necessary and especially a quality lock. There is a subway stop right across from campus and no one last year opted to buy a bicycle.  When I traveled, all of us bought bicycles.  They average $50-$75.

6)       Bring whatever portable electronics or books or handiwork you need for a couple of long road trips, plane travel, down time, etc.  But always remember you have to carry all your stuff at a couple of points.

7)       Medications and your basic toiletries in travel sizes.  I bring instant coffee and emergen-c, my Chinese go-to meds for diarrhea, feeling full, early onset of cold and constipation. If you have a particular pattern you fall into when immune compromised or eating strange foods, I recommend coming prepared ;)

8)       Anything you absolutely need to make your hotel room a bit of a home – family pic, a tapestry to cover the tv, favorite stuffed animal, treasured stone, specific incense, etc. It does become a home away from home and it be very comforting to somewhat personalize the space.

9) they outlawed plastic shopping bags in Chinese grocery stores awhile back.  Good to have some small re-usable bag for your shopping at the local store.

10)   A small pack which you could flexibly use for things such as – to carry a couple changes of clothes/toiletries for travel during the national holiday, use as your clinic bag or even a shopping bag. Some also bring an empty extra suitcase if planning to buy a lot of gifts.

11)   A couple of photocopies of your passport.

12)   A secure way to carry around your money. Debit card, copy of passport.

13)   Any travel guides or phrase books you might want when out-and-about on your own.

14)   Camera and laptop computer. The internet hookup is to a landline and requires that it be physically plugged into to whatever computer you might bring.  

15)   Sturdy travel mug/flask for water and tea.

      16)  If planning to get a lot of souvenirs ( I usually do all of my Christmas shopping there) consider not bringing a suitcase (or bring an empty one) and then fill it with gifts!