What to bring

The following is a list of items we recommend you bring to Shanghai and Bangkok with you this January.  Remember, it's best to consolidate and go mobile.  Fewer items to haul in the most efficient manner is the best way to go.  Thus we suggest you bring a big, heavy-duty backpack with a simple day-pack/carry-on.  Best to veer away from luggage.  You'll be much happier hands-free winding your way through Asia.

One big hiking backpack (Northface, Berghaus, Vangon and other cheaper options here:)

Small carry-on day pack
Knife (not in carry-on or on your person)
Earplugs
Small pillow
Eye cover
One sheet
Wipes/antibacterial solution
Safety pins
String
Small first aid kit with neosporin
Ziplock bags
Empty bottles
Toiletries (especially lady things--hard to find in Asia)
Baby powder
Vaporub (it can get smelly sometimes)
Cologne
Tylenol
Tylenol PM/Cold medicine (to knock you out when needed)
Anti-diarrheal medicine
Anti-malarial pills (not absolutely necessary, a precaution)
Mosquito sleeper
Mosquito repellant
Sunblock (you will get fried in Thailand if you skimp on this)
Sunglasses
Big hat

Some snacks (pack of powerbars)
Airborne or vitamin-packs for water

Heavy jacket (for Shanghai)
Good walking shoes
Flip-flops
One nice outfit
Couple pairs of pants and long sleeves (for Shanghai and Temple visits)
Tees and shorts
Socks
Undies
Swimsuit
Towel
Light cottons and linens

Camera/tablet/phone (we discourage bulky laptops)
Cords and batteries
Card games
Guidebooks
Business cards
Small Journal & 3 Pens
Money for food and souvenirs (~$400)
Credit and debit cards (call and inform your banks first)

It's a long list but it can all comfortably fit into a 50-60liter backpack.