Arrive ready.
Explore easier.
A little preparation can make a big difference. Use this guide to organize the essentials before departure and know what to double-check.
Your before-you-go checklist
- □ Confirm passport validity and current visa or visa-free eligibility.
- □ Check arrival-card, customs and onward-ticket requirements if applicable.
- □ Reserve popular attractions and accommodation where required.
- □ Save hotel name, address and booking details offline.
- □ Arrange travel insurance and keep emergency contacts accessible.
- □ Carry a small amount of backup cash and a second payment method.
Check the rules for your passport
China's entry policies depend on nationality, purpose of visit, length of stay and travel dates. Some travelers may qualify for visa-free entry or transit arrangements; others need a visa before departure.
Start with the Chinese embassy or consulate responsible for your place of residence and official immigration or government announcements. Confirm permitted activities, length of stay, entry ports and any registration requirements. Do not rely on an old blog post or another traveler's experience as proof of eligibility.
Prepare more than one way to pay
Mobile payments are widely used in many Chinese cities, and some services allow eligible international visitors to link overseas bank cards. Setup steps, supported cards and transaction limits vary by provider and may change.
- Install official versions of payment apps before travel where possible.
- Complete identity verification and card setup early, if available to you.
- Carry a backup bank card and some renminbi (RMB) cash for contingencies.
- Tell your bank about travel if it recommends doing so, and check foreign transaction fees.
- Never share payment passwords or verification codes with anyone.
Tip: Test your setup before leaving home, but keep a fallback in case a merchant, card or network does not work.
Sort out your connection before landing
Research roaming, travel eSIMs and local SIM options before your trip. Availability depends on your phone, provider, passport and destination. Some international apps and services may not work normally on local networks, so check current access and local laws rather than assuming every service will be available.
- Confirm your phone is unlocked and supports the relevant bands and eSIM, if needed.
- Download offline maps, translation language packs and tickets.
- Keep important reservations and addresses available offline.
- Use reputable networks and avoid sensitive transactions on public Wi-Fi.
Useful categories to prepare: maps, translation, rail booking, ride-hailing, accommodation and payments. Choose official apps and review their current availability in your app store.
Trains, metro and taxis
High-speed rail is a convenient way to connect many major cities. Stations can be large, security screening takes time and your ticket name or identity details must match the applicable booking requirements.
- Book through official channels or a reputable authorized service.
- Check the departure station carefully; one city may have several stations.
- Arrive early enough for station entry, security and finding your platform.
- For taxis or ride-hailing, confirm the destination in Chinese and check the vehicle details.
- In metro systems, follow local signage and security rules; keep your ticket or QR code ready.
Travel thoughtfully and keep a backup
Keep emergency numbers, insurance details and your accommodation address accessible. For urgent help in China, commonly used numbers include 110 for police, 119 for fire and 120 for ambulance; confirm local guidance and ask your accommodation for help if needed.
- Carry any essential medication in original packaging and check import rules before travel.
- Drink water safely, use sun protection and account for air quality and weather.
- Keep valuables secure in crowded transport hubs and tourist areas.
- Follow local laws and instructions at cultural sites, border areas and restricted locations.
- Share your itinerary with someone you trust and keep copies of key documents securely.
Useful Mandarin phrases
Show a translated destination on your phone when pronunciation is difficult. For allergies or medical needs, prepare a clear written translation rather than relying on a short phrase alone.