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Rob_Hugo@PortNWHere is where we can begin putting together a checklist of what to pack for three weeks of summer travel through China and Japan.
The most important thing to know - PACK LIGHT!!! While international luggage allowances are generous, domestic flights and train rides have limits.
China and Japan have different electric voltage systems, so you will likely want to purchase an adapter/transformer for things that you will be expecting to recharge, like cameras and laptops.
Some cell phones with built-in capabilities may work in China and Japan, but you should check with your service provider on roaming charges, etc. Long distance phone cards can be easily and inexpensively purchased in China and Japan for calls home. You will probably also be surprised and impressed by how easy it will be to find places with Internet access.
Please feel free to reply with thoughts and suggestions on things to bring and not bring.
-Miranda
AnonymousOne thing i have learned about traveling overseas for any period of time was to take with me clothes that i didn't mind leaving there when i was done with the trip. that way i can have more space on my trip back and have an excuse for clothes shopping. Bringing attire for institution visits is also important, i'll keep that in mind as well[Edit by="dcolato on Apr 14, 6:04:03 PM"][/Edit]
AnonymousThanks for the idea about bringing some old clothes. I was going to donate some to goodwill, but I'll just bring some to China instead. Anyone know the size limits of carry on's etc. I have to buy luggage and have no clue what would be best for lugging around and have enough room for what we need.
AnonymousIf you go to REI they have backpacks for... backpackers. They are nice because they have a good amount of room and wheels so you can pull it when it gets heavy. They also usually have a smaller backpack that you can remove and take with you during the day.
They can be a bit pricey - around $300, but it's worth it.
clay dubeDennis's suggestion has merit.
At the same time, please note that we're ambassadors for all American educators. On a couple previous trips I have had to ask participants to rethink wardrobe choices. T-shirts with inappropriate messages and clothes that reveal a bit too much should be saved for your next beach trip.
When we visit institutions, especially, it is critical to remember that this is a study tour, not a vacation.
Anonymousi'm in 5th grade and i have a lot of literature books, however they deal with the state standards on history / social studies for that grade (i.e. the American Revolution, George Washington, and the like). is material like this acceptable to bring, or will it seem inappropriate? For example, i have a book which has replicas of important U.S. documents like the Constitution, Declaration of Independence. They're cool because they are made to look authentic, but is the subject okay?
AnonymousFor China, I personally wouldnt bring books about the American revolution etc. Wouldnt this also be a little heavy to carry with you? Just my opinion.
AnonymousFor those of you taking an iPod on the trip, remember that iTunes has a large selection of free podcasts that teach basic phrases in Mandarin and Japanese. I've downloaded many of the 5 minute clips which are organized by subjects such as "restaurants,""introductions," and "in a school." The public library also had guide books to check out.
AnonymousThanks Dennis for your advice. I still have yet to get into the world of I-anything. I've been resisting, but maybe this will spur me to purchasing one.
Kevin
AnonymousFor those who dont have or havent bought luggage yet, Macy's is having a really good sale on all luggage. Most of the luggage is 50% off with extra coupons etc. I just bought a 25" wheeled one that is originally $300, but is 50% off with an extra 10% off discount. If you go sometime this week and ask (or are already a Macy's member) about the family and friend's discount, you'll get an additional 20% off. I bought the piece for just over $100. It was cheaper than buying it at Costco where I initially planned to buy it at. I did not own any luggage before that could handle such a trip but now I feel I have something that would last me for years.
AnonymousI am trying to pack as light as possible so I have a question related to the itinerary.
I know that we were encouraged to dress appropriately for the school visits, which often come after long walks.
And I also know the weather will be very hot and humid.
According to the current itinerary it looks like we will be visiting about 3-4 schools, and it sounds like you may add a couple more.
So, being a woman I will bring a couple skirts/dresses for these days, however on the rest of the days, I'm assuming it would be okay to wear shorts, or are there other places where we need to be sure our shoulders or legs are covered?
AnonymousSounds like you've got it covered, Kristina. Bringing at least one dress is a good idea for the ladies. It does not have to be formal; a light cotton tank dress or sheath will do (spaghetti straps or strapless are not a good idea).
Shorts and sleeveless tops are fine, but remember that you will be sitting on buses and trains, sitting in restaurants and other places, etc., so short shorts are not a good idea. Cropped pants and capris work better. Again, with tops, it's better to have tanks and light tops that provide coverage, if only to avoid funky strap tans. Strapless tops are, again, not a good idea.
Remember that you will probably have to hand wash most, if not all, of your clothing in the hotel sink! On that note, remember to bring some laundry detergent. Liquid is better than powder, but either works.
Target sells detergent in single-use packs, or you can just purchase a 3 oz. plastic container and fill it with concentrated detergent. You will check in your luggage anyway, so you don't have to worry about the liquids restrictions.