On most flights and trains in and oút of Beijing, the baggage weight limit is 20 kg. That's right around 44 pounds, which sounds like a lot, but you'll be surprised how quickly you can approach the limit. Luggage can easily eat into the weight limit, since large bags can often weigh up to 25 pounds. Try to buy baggage that is extra light, and you'll save 10 to 15 pounds for more stuff you can bring.

As far as items you can leave at home, you'll be pleasantly surprised to find that you can leave behind food and many typical travel items, like batteries and film. Foreign travelers tend to forget that Beijing is a modern city, and you'll be able to find these things in malls and department stores. If it makes you feel better, you can always bring along an extra roll or two of toilet paper. Packing tip of the day: Always bring some toilet paper. You just never know.

There are some items that you simply can't afford not to bring. A good pair of walking shoes is a must, especially because shoe shopping in China can be a hassle for westerners, due to differences in average shoe sizes. If you're planning on doing any traveling, especially in the north, heed this packing tip: Bring warm clothes. Lots of them. Locals layer like pros, many wearing multiple pairs of leggings, pants (yes, two pairs of pants), and jackets in the winter. If this sounds uncomfortable to you, make sure to bring your own extra warm clothing.

If you're coming from Europe, here's a packing tip you'll be pleased to hear: don't worry about power outlet converters. Most sockets and outlets in Beijing, as well as around the country, are of the 2-hole European type, and their voltage is 230 volts. If you're an American traveler, you'll want to invest in a good power converter to preserve your electronics.

As far as money is concerned, the best packing tip is to carry cash. There are plenty of Bank of China ATMs in Beijing, but you'll find very few once you leave the city and head for more remote destinations. Call your credit card companies ahead of time to inform them of your travels, which will make it easier for them to monitor your card activity for fraudulent charges, and to make sure they don't unknowingly freeze your activity to protect your account.

When you're packing your valuables, make sure to either put them in a secure or hidden pocket in your baggage, or to keep them on your person. Purchasing a money belt is an excellent idea, and a great way to keep your hard-to-replace items on you in a safe spot.

As a final packing tip, make sure you have cash on you to pay China's Airport Departure Tax at check-in. It's 50 Yuan for domestic flights, and 90 Yuan for international departures. You wouldn't want to get stuck after spending your last few Yuan on crab candy, would you?