Beijing What to Pack

Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: You will be visiting military fortifications that are built mainly along high, steep and exposed mountain ridges. You will need light, loose fitting, comfortable clothing that is waterproof, wind-resisting and air permeable. In autumn and winter, warm sweaters and gloves are recommended. Gloves should not be too thick as you will need to use your hands when climbing particularly steep sections of the route. Finally, footwear should be comfortable walking shoes or boots with soles that have a good grip. Avoid setting out with new and untried footwear so as to prevent discomfort and blisters.

Miscellaneous: You should carry half a litre of water for each hour you intend to walk. Alkaline drinks may be substituted for part of your water ration. Do not take alcoholic drinks. A camera, films, a pocket flashlight, packed food and a garbage bag are other basics

Luggage and bags: Bring a "disposable" back-pack. I carry a mesh pack that folds up to the size of about 5"x7" and fits into a pocket. In it I carry a snack, small bottle of water, soft drink, and umbrella. Once the drinks & snacks have been consumed & containers properly disposed, I fold it up & stash in a pocket or use it to carry souveniers I purchase.

Clothing/Shoes/Weather Gear: Invest in a good pair of hiking boots that are waterproof. . They will pay for themselves the first time you climb all those uneven stairs or walk along stone/marble floors. Your feet stay warm & dry as well as supported. You'll thank yourself many times over Remember to take bandanas, hats & gloves depending on destination.

Toiletries and Medical Supplies: Carry a roll of biodegradable Toilet Paper. It's small in size, but lasts weeks. Also carry along a bottle of Motrin or IB Prophin; either one elliminates all sorts of aches & pains one encounters during travel.

Photo Equipment: Avoid trying to find film or batteries by carrying a disposable camera. I carry one as a backup to my digital. If I want a photo of myself in front of a monument or historical place, I don't think twice about asking someone to take my photo. Thus protecting my more expensive digital camera from theft.

Camping/Beach/Outdoor Gear: Take along a plastic poncho to protect clothing from unexpected showers. Umbrellas tend to lose their waterproofness after 30 or 45 mn in a downpour. A plastic ponco with hood will shield one from head to mid-thigh.

Miscellaneous: I usually print out some business cards with a destination photo on one side, and my personal info on the other. This helps the recipient remember where & why they got the card. I also take a sheet of address labels along in my guide book. I use them for postcards, or to swap addresses with fellow travels met along the way.