Ultimate Pre-Departure Checklist for Your China Trip
A comprehensive guide on what to prepare before you go: apps, cash, bookings, and other essential knowledge.
A smooth trip to China starts long before you board the plane. This checklist covers the absolute essentials to ensure you're digitally and logistically ready for your adventure.
1. Visa & Entry Requirements: The Foundation
Tourist Visa (L Visa)
Most countries require a visa to enter China. Apply at your nearest Chinese consulate 2-4 weeks before travel. Required documents typically include passport, application form, photo, flight itinerary, and hotel bookings.
Visa-Free Transit (144-hour)
Citizens of 54 countries can enjoy visa-free transit for up to 144 hours in certain cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, etc.) if transiting to a third country. Must have onward flight ticket and stay within designated areas.
Passport Validity
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your planned entry date and has at least 2 blank pages for entry/exit stamps.
Health Requirements
Good news! As of 2024, China has lifted most COVID-related restrictions for tourists. No vaccination certificates, PCR tests, or health declarations are required for most visitors. However, always check the latest requirements on your airline's website or Chinese embassy before departure, as policies can change.
Travel Insurance
While not always mandatory, comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies is highly recommended and sometimes required for visa applications.
2. Digital Essentials: Your Phone is Your Lifeline
Internet Connectivity & Access
You have two main options: (1) eSIM for China-Specific Roaming: The easiest all-in-one solution. Providers offer "roaming eSIMs" that route your data internationally. This means you can access Google, Instagram, and other blocked sites without needing a separate VPN. (2) Local SIM/Data + VPN: More economical but complex option. Use your home carrier's basic roaming or a local Chinese SIM card for data. Then use a reliable VPN to access blocked sites. You MUST install and test the VPN before arriving in China!
The super-app for everything. Used for communication, payment, and mini-programs. Set up your account and get familiar with it.
Alipay
The other major payment app. Essential for mobile payments. Link it to an international credit card (Visa, Mastercard).
Translation App
Download Google Translate or Microsoft Translator and be sure to download the offline Chinese language pack.
Maps
Google Maps works for foreigners but has limited data in China, making it less accurate. Download Apple Maps (if you're an iPhone user, it works well) or a local alternative like Amap for the most accurate navigation and real-time traffic.
3. Money Matters: Cash, Cards, and Payments
Mobile Payment is King
90% of transactions in cities are cashless. Prioritize setting up Alipay or WeChat Pay.
Bring Some Cash
Carry at least ¥1000-¥2000 in cash per person for emergencies, small vendors, or taxis, especially in more rural areas. You can exchange currency at the airport or withdraw from major bank ATMs (ICBC, Bank of China).
Credit Cards
Major hotels and high-end restaurants accept international credit cards (Visa/Mastercard), but they are NOT widely accepted elsewhere. Don't rely on them for daily expenses.
Inform Your Bank
Let your bank know your travel dates to avoid your cards being blocked for suspicious activity.
4. Plan Ahead: Bookings & Reservations
Popular Attractions
Many major tourist sites like the Forbidden City in Beijing or the Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an now require advance booking online, often through WeChat mini-programs. Research and book these 1-2 weeks in advance, especially during peak season.
Train Tickets
For long-distance travel, book high-speed train tickets in advance using apps like Trip.com, as popular routes sell out quickly.
Hotels
Book your accommodation beforehand, and save the hotel's address in both English and Chinese characters in your phone.
5. Other Essential Knowledge & Packing Tips
Power Adapter
China uses Type A and Type I outlets. Bring a universal adapter.
Medication
Bring any prescription medication you need, along with a doctor's note. Common over-the-counter medicine is available, but it might be hard to find specific brands.
Travel Insurance
Highly recommended. Ensure it covers medical emergencies.
Learn Basic Phrases
A simple "你好 (Nǐ hǎo - Hello)" and "谢谢 (Xièxiè - Thank you)" goes a long way.