Dear students,

Congratulations! As you prepare to begin your academic journey in China, have you made all the necessary preparations to adapt to a new environment? Are you worried about forgetting something important while packing your suitcases?

To help you get started smoothly, here's a detailed packing list for your life in China.

Essential documents

Your passport, visa documents, admission notice, and JW202/JW201 form are the most important items to carry.

It is also advisable to bring several 1-inch and 2-inch ID photos for registration or administrative requirements.

Tips: If you hold an X1 visa, remember to apply for a residence permit within 30 days of entering China.

For detailed instructions on applying for a study visa, please visit:

Your essential guide to applying for a study visa

Check your university's enrollment guidebook to confirm whether any additional documents or materials are required, such as your medical check report. It's better to keep these documents together in your carry-on luggage rather than in checked baggage.

It is also recommended to make printed copies or electronic backups of important documents so you can provide proof promptly when needed.

Additionally, it is advisable to carry some local currency and bank cards, or an international credit card, with you.

Study and daily life essentials

Shopping in China is simple and convenient. Once you arrive, you can easily meet your daily needs at campus supermarkets, convenience stores, or shopping malls nearby.

You only need to bring the most basic daily and study supplies, such as personal hygiene products, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, and shampoo, to help you through the "adaptation period" in an unfamiliar environment.

Clothing

China's climate varies significantly by region. Pack clothing according to the climate of the city where your school is located.

September generally marks the beginning of autumn in China, with mild weather in most areas. We recommend you bring a few short-sleeved shirts and light jackets, in addition to your underwear, for easy rotation.

If there is extra space in your luggage, you can bring one or two thicker coats, such as down jackets and trench coats, for the coming winter.

It is also advisable to bring one formal outfit and one traditional costume from your home country for formal occasions such as academic presentations and cultural exchanges.

For footwear, two pairs of shoes suitable for daily commuting are sufficient, along with one pair of formal shoes for special occasions.

Bedding

You can confirm in advance the size of the dormitory or rental apartment and check with your school or landlord whether bedding is provided. If not, you can bring your own or purchase it on campus or at nearby shopping centers.

School supplies

A few notebooks and pens are sufficient. Other supplies can be purchased after you arrive.

Electronics

China uses Type A, C, and I plugs, with a standard voltage of 220 volts. The socket designs may differ from those in your home country. It's recommended to bring a universal power adapter beforehand. The standard socket is illustrated in the picture below.

Mobile phone and useful apps

Mobile phones are essential tools. Before arriving in China, you can download useful apps.

• Payment apps: WeChat, Alipay, and UnionPay
• Mobile payments are widely used in China. You can conveniently pay for daily purchases at supermarkets, restaurants, convenience stores, and public transportation using your phone.
• Navigation apps: Amap

The Amap app supports 14 languages and provides accurate map locations across China. It highlights local places such as schools, airports, train stations, restaurants, and hotels, helping you navigate efficiently and become familiar with your surroundings.

• Ride-hailing apps: Didi (滴滴出行), Cao Cao Mobility (曹操出行)

Ride-hailing services are widely available across China, offering various price ranges and car options at most locations.

Warm reminder: When you arrive, please purchase a Chinese SIM card to ensure smooth communication.

Laptop and USB drivers

During your academic journey, a laptop is essential for writing papers and conducting research. Remember to bring your charger, though you can also purchase one after arrival if needed.

Portable charger

According to the Civil Aviation Administration of China, passengers are prohibited from carrying power banks without 3C certification, with unclear 3C marks, or from recalled batches on domestic flights. Ensure that any portable charger you bring complies with these regulations.

Note: The 3C mark is a symbol of the China Compulsory Certification — known as 3C.

Other electronic devices

You may bring keyboards, cameras, tablets, and other devices according to your personal needs.

Please note that all portable electronic devices with lithium batteries must be carried in your hand luggage.

Commonly used medicines

Medical treatment and purchasing medicines are very convenient. You only need to bring some over-the-counter medicines for personal use.

If you need to carry prescription drugs due to a medical condition, please bring the prescription and a medication list issued by your doctor.

It is also important to check China's drug control policies in advance to ensure that all your medicines can be brought into the country smoothly.

Under Chinese law, opium, morphine, heroin, marijuana, and other addictive narcotics and psychotropic substances are strictly prohibited. Other prohibited items include weapons, imitation weapons, controlled knives, ammunition, and explosives.

Beyond these basic items, you are also suggested to consider bringing some special items that may be life-savers you'll be glad you packed:

1. Comfort food or snacks from home

Helps when you're missing familiar flavors.

2. Small gifts or cultural items

Great for making friends and sharing your culture.

3. Photos from home

Decorate your dorm and ease homesickness.

4. Travel towel and flip-flops

Handy for dorm life or short trips.

5. Weather-specific items

Umbrella for rainy cities, or a warm coat for northern winters.

6. Reusable water bottle and tote bag

China places great emphasis on sustainability!

You may also note the following things are better to leave at home:

• Cooking appliances are typically prohibited in dorms.

• A substantial sum of cash.

• Items that are restricted under Chinese laws and regulations.

Pro Tip: Pack light but smart. You can buy almost everything in China, often at affordable prices. What matters most is having your key documents, a positive attitude, and a spirit of adventure!

We hope this guide will help you prepared, reduce travel anxiety, and allow you to embrace your upcoming life in China fully!

Sources: Official WeChat account of China Scholarship Council (ID: "gh_afaa09c3e5f3"); chinadaily.com.cn

Updated Aug 24, 2026