Quick Answer
Three things can't be forgotten: ID documents, medical records, and phone setup. Everything else is nice to have. The checklist below is organized by priority — just check them off.
Priority 1: Can't Enter the Hospital Without These
These are non-negotiable. Without them, you literally can't see a doctor.
- Passport (valid for 6+ months, at least 2 blank pages)
- Visa (check if your country is visa-free — if unsure, see the visa guide)
- Return ticket or itinerary (required for some visa types)
- Hotel booking confirmation (same as above)
Priority 2: Without These, You've Wasted the Trip
These make the difference between a productive visit and a frustrating one.
💡 Tip: Send me your medical documents before departure. I can help you organize them into a standardized bilingual medical file — ready to use at the hospital.
- Previous medical records / test reports (bring originals + take photos as backup)
- Prescription / medication list (write down drug names, dosages, frequency)
- Referral letter (if your doctor provided one)
- Insurance policy info (policy number, insurer phone, whether they support direct billing)
- Allergy history and medical history (write it down in English — could save your life)
Priority 3: Lifestyle Items
- Power adapter (China uses A/C/I type, 220V — not exactly the same as US/EU plugs)
- Power bank (you'll thank yourself when your phone dies)
- Comfortable clothes (easy to put on/take off — hospital exams often require it. Also: AC is cold, bring a jacket)
- Some cash (though mobile pay is everywhere, some small shops or emergencies may need it)
- Daily medications (bring enough for your entire trip)
Phone Setup (Do Before Departure)
Get these sorted before you leave — it'll save you headaches at the airport.
- Download DiDi (滴滴出行) — ride-hailing app, supports international credit cards
- Download Gaode Maps (高德地图) — navigation, works better than Google Maps in China
- VPN — if you need to access Google, WhatsApp, etc.
- Translation app — Google Translate or DeepL, download offline packs in advance
- Get a China SIM or eSIM — available at airport arrival hall, cheaper if bought in advance
⚠️ About WeChat Pay / Alipay: See the China Payment guide. Recommend setting up card binding before departure — ready to use on arrival.
Optional but Recommended
- Bilingual medication list (if you're on medication, translate drug names/dosages to Chinese-English. I can help with this too)
- A folder or clear document pouch (keep all paper documents together, don't scatter them in your bag)
- Comfortable shoes (hospitals are big, lots of walking)
- Neck pillow / eye mask (if going straight to the hospital after a long flight)
The Packing Principle
Honestly, Shenzhen is an incredibly convenient city. If you forget something, you can almost certainly buy it here. The only things you can't replace last-minute are documents and medical records — double-check those twice. Everything else? You'll figure it out when you arrive. Shenzhen has one of the highest convenience store densities in the world (I'm not making this up).
Not Sure What to Bring?
Tell me your situation and I'll create a personalized packing list for you.
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