Russian Travel Blogger Lists Items Worth Leaving Behind on a China Trip

A Russian travel blogger known as Elena has shared a list of things she says tourists should not bother packing for China, posting her advice on her personal blog on the Russian platform Zen.

Her first tip concerns items she says Chinese airlines do not allow on board, naming an external power bank and food. Travelers should check the exact rules with their carrier before flying, since restrictions on power banks and food can vary by airline and route.

Elena also suggests leaving the cosmetics bag at home. She points to Harmay, a cosmetics store chain she compares to Russia's Zolotoye Yabloko ("Golden Apple"), a well-known beauty retailer. In her view, Harmay's stores in major Chinese cities stock miniature products at low prices, covering both mass-market and luxury brands.

She makes a similar case for clothing: travelers need not pack heavily, she argues, because China offers a wide selection of clothes, accessories, shoes and inexpensive electronics. Her reasoning is that much of the apparel sold in Russia is made in China and costs three to four times less there.

The tips reflect one blogger's personal experience rather than official guidance, and travelers may find their own needs differ.