WHAT TO PACK WHEN MOVING TO CHINA: TEACHING ENGLISH IN CHINA

WHAT TO PACK WHEN MOVING TO CHINA: TEACHING ENGLISH IN CHINA

Author
Lexi Ward
2019.02.06

Kids and Teens senior teacher and ambassador, Cassandra Welch, gave us some insight into what to pack for a year abroad with EF. Cassandra shares her list of top 10 items she recommends you bring to China.

If you are looking to start a new adventure, then watch the video below to learn more about living and working abroad. Make sure you subscribe to the EF's YouTube channel so that you can stay up to date with any changes, as well as learn more about livi


ng and working in China.

1. Black Pants for Work

This is a must if you're a Kids and Teens teacher. You might want to bring more than one pair in case you get ink or marker stains on your pants (it happens)! Even if you're going to teach Adults, black pants are a safe bet to wear with your business casual clothes in the classroom.

2. Stick Deodorant

This item is very hard to come by. You might be able to find certain brands of stick deodorant in western stores, but might not carry the brand that you're used to. If you're used to spray deodorant, the good news is you'll be able to find a variety of scents and brands in all supermarkets.

3. Chinese Pocket Book

You can purchase a Chinese/English language pocketbook in most bookstores before you depart on your adventure of a lifetime. This guide will come in handy when a quick translation is needed.

4. Makeup for your Skin Tone

Most stores in China will carry lighter tones of foundation and concealer. If you are loyal to a specific brand or color tone, we'd advise you to bring a few bottles with you to get you through the year.

5. Specific Feminine Products

While tier-one cities are becoming more and more westernized and have access to a variety of feminine products, they're still quite expensive compared to the prices back home. We recommend you bring a large box or two of feminine products you've purchased on sale at your local Target or convenience store.

6. Neutral Wardrobe

You'll be able to purchase items of clothing when you get to China. But when in doubt, a nice pair of jeans or a grey T-shirt will work in most situations. Bring neutral pieces of clothing, and when you get to China, you can accessorize!

7. Winter Coat

Do your research! Having a winter coat in the middle of winter in Harbin or Beijing is an absolute must.

8. Pain Reliever/Vitamins

Even though you can find the Chinese equivalent of the Tylenol brand, you don't want to have to take a trip to the pharmacy while your head is pounding!

9. Eyeglasses/Contacts

Although there are optometrists in most major malls in China, it's easier if you bring an extra pair of glasses, prescription sunglasses, and/or contact lenses that will last you a while.

10. A Positive Attitude

This is vital to your success with EF and living abroad! Put on a smile and bring that positive energy abroad with you.

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Author
Lexi Ward

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