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Taiwan → Phoenix
Phase 0: Planning

Packing Guide

Last updated: 2026-03-07 | For: Everyone

Phoenix has Asian grocery stores and Taiwanese restaurants. You don't need a year's supply of instant noodles. But some Taiwan-specific items are genuinely hard to find here. This list helps you sort out what to bring and what to skip.

Bring (Taiwan-Specific Items)

  • Tatung rice cooker — available in the US but limited selection and higher prices. Bring the one you're used to. Taiwan's 110V matches US voltage (plug adapter may be needed).
  • Prescription medications — bring a sufficient supply with English prescription notes from your doctor. Transferring prescriptions to US pharmacies takes time.
  • Chinese children's books — Traditional Chinese children's books are very hard to find in Phoenix.
  • Specific condiments and ingredients — your favorite brands may not be at Lee Lee or 99 Ranch. Bring some for the transition.
  • Comfort items — children's comfort objects, family photos, things that make a new place feel like home.
  • All documents — see the Document Checklist

Don't Bring

  • Basic kitchenware — pots, pans, and utensils are cheap and abundant in the US (Target, Costco, Amazon)
  • Bedding — US sizes differ from Taiwan (Queen/King dimensions are different)
  • Basic clothing — buy everyday clothes in the US. You'll need Phoenix-appropriate clothing anyway.
  • Electronics — buying in the US gives better warranty coverage (Apple, Samsung, and other global brands)
  • Heavy winter coats — Phoenix winters are mild; you won't need a down jacket

Climate-Related Packing

  • Sunscreen SPF 50+ (SPF 30 works in Taiwan but is insufficient for Phoenix)
  • Wide-brimmed sun hat
  • Lightweight long-sleeve UV protection clothing
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Buy after arrival: car windshield sun shade, window heat-blocking film (you need to know your car model first)

Sea Freight / Air Freight

Sea Freight

Transit time: 6-8 weeks

Best for: large items, non-urgent belongings

Air Freight

Transit time: 5-10 days

Best for: urgent items, documents

Major airlines (China Airlines, EVA Air) baggage allowance: typically economy 2 bags at 23kg, business 2 bags at 32kg. Confirm your ticket's baggage policy.

For Children

  • Traditional Chinese books and learning materials (nearly unavailable in Phoenix)
  • Comfort items — moving affects children more than adults expect
  • Chinese-language entertainment for the transition (Netflix Taiwan account works with VPN)
  • School documents (transcripts, vaccination records — see the Document Checklist)