If you are planning on visiting China and are wondering which essentials you must bring on your journey – this article is for you. China is a very beautiful, large country with a multitude of different regions – from mountains to flatlands, from desserts to seas, and hence there are a number of things that you should consider, before you finally zip-up your suitcase.
Generally, there are two main things that you should always keep in mind:
- The climate – it depends on the region of the country. For example, the capital city of Beijing has a moderate climate which is similar to that of most central European countries, that means cold Winters and hot, dry Summers (except for the month of July – which can get a bit rainy). Hong Kong, on another hand, is located right on the South China Sea, and enjoys a more humid climate, with hot (and rainy) Summers, but warm (and dry) Winters.
- The pollution – you have probably already heard that pollution is a huge problem in China. Well – it is, and that’s why packing for China might be different than packing for most other countries.
Now, let’s look at the individual items:
– The Basics –
Skincare:
We are going to start with the skincare products first, because this is where the issue of pollution has a major role. Especially, when mixed with humidity, pollution can wreak havoc with your skin and hair, and therefore you should consider packing these essentials:
- a strong exfoliating scrub (to be used every night). We recommend: Botanical Exfoliating Scrub, by Mario Badescu.
- a light facial scrub (to be used every morning). For example: Morning Burst Facial Scrub, by Clean & Clear (sold at most drug-stores).
- a good purifying, pore-cleansing facial mask (or two-three) that you should apply on at least every other evening (if not every single evening, while in China). We recommend: Cucumber Tonic Mask, by Mario Badescu.
- a protective day cream that you should apply on every morning. We recommend: Shea Face Soothing Fluid, by L’Occitane, which was specifically designed to help protect the skin against the pollution.
- Optional: a rotating, deep-cleansing brush. For example: Mia 1 Skin Cleansing System, by Clarisonic (sold at Sephora), or ProX by Olay Advanced Cleansing System (sold at Walmart).
- an SPF sunblock (minimum 30).
- an SPF lip balm. We recommend: Five Star Lip Protection, SPF 30, by Blistex (available at most drugstores).
- a good, skin moisturizing lotion. We recommend – anything by Nivea.
Haircare:
- an intense hydrating hair mask – to treat the hair from air and water pollution. We recommend: Quenching Masque by Bumble and Bumble.
Teethcare:
- a mouthwash – to kill any mouth bacteria (in addition to air pollution, China has a big problem with water contamination as well. As a result – you should try to avoid brushing your teeth with tap water, even if you’re staying at a 5-star hotel. Use bottled water instead). We recommend: Freshburst by Listerine.
Other ‘Must-Haves’:
- an antibacterial hand sanitizer.
- a small bottle of liquid soap.
- a few packs of tissues.
- a small roll of toilet paper.
– The Essential Wardrobe –
Summer:
Summers in China are usually hot, and depending on the region – can be very humid. It can also rain a lot in such big megalopolises as Shanghai and Hong Kong, so do not forget to pack a lightweight umbrella with you, to avoid getting caught in a random downpour.
- a sunhat
- a pair of sunglasses
- a pair of sneakers or comfy loafers (and socks)
- a pair of open-toe sandals
- a pair of shirts
- a pair of pants
- (ladies) a pair of skirts, and sundresses
- several pairs of t-shirts and tank-tops
- a light sweater (for any transportation with a strong AC)
- a small, lightweight umbrella
Spring/Fall:
Spring and Fall are usually the most changeable and unpredictable seasons, therefore you should pack a variety of clothes to be prepared for basically… anything.
- a sunhat
- a pair of sunglasses
- a pair of sneakers or comfy loafers (and socks)
- a pair of shirts
- a pair of pants
- a pair of jeans
- (ladies) a few skirts (optional)
- several basic t-shirts
- several medium-warm sweaters
- a warm jacket
- a light scarf
- an umbrella
Winter:
The Winter’s wardrobe relies heavily on the region of China to which you will be traveling to. So before you pack your suitcase – check in with the region’s climate, to make sure that you pack the appropriate clothes.
Here’s what you should pack to Beijing or Xi’an, as an example:
- a pair of sunglasses
- a pair of warm pants
- a pair of jeans
- a pair of leggings or underpants
- 2-3 long and short sleeve t-shirts
- several warm (wool or cashmere) sweaters
- an insulated, waterproof winter coat
- a warm hat and a scarf
- a pair of gloves
- a pair of warm, waterproof boots
- wool socks
- an umbrella
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