Don't forget

1.  Make sure that you have a valid visa to visit china or see the Hainan visa information page on how to qualify  for Visa on Arrival.

2. ID card, birth certificate and drivers license in case of emergency;

3. You can change your country's currency into chinese Renminbi(RMB) at the airport or at the branches of Bank of China Bank of China ATMs and some other bank ATMs accept foreign credit/debit cards(Visa,Mastercard etc.)

4. Anti-diarrhea tablets, antibiotics and any specialty medicines from home are useful. You should also take along some basic medicines, such as painkillers;

5. Daily necessities. It's easy to buy things in China but when you first arrive, it may prove difficult. Bring shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush and soap for your first week and then you should be able to buy them at various local stores.

6. Clothes. It's not easy for tall or bigger boned Westerners to buy clothes in China, as the Chinese are typically far smaller;

7. Electricity adaptor. The most common plug types are the dual and three-pointed prongs, which are different from the West. China runs on 220 volts, which will burn 110-volt appliances;

8. A good travel guide is necessary.


Not necessary, but very handy

1. Photocopies of important documents;

2. Several passport photos;

3. Your hotel's contact details in Chinese so you don't get lost;