Step 1
Check entry requirements
Confirm whether visa-free entry, visa-free transit, or a tourist visa applies before making final bookings.
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for Your China Trip
Set up payments, mobile data, and transport basics before planning the rest of your trip.
Last verified: October 2026
Report outdated informationPrepare in this order
Start with entry eligibility, then set up daily essentials, transport, accommodation, and arrival plans.
Step 2
Set up payments and mobile data
Prepare a working payment method and internet connection before you depend on apps, maps, and QR codes.
Step 3
Plan transport and accommodation
Choose how you will move between cities and keep your hotel details ready in English and Chinese.
Step 4
Prepare for arrival
Review immigration, arrival-card, customs, and airport-to-hotel steps before departure.
Three everyday essentials
Set these up after confirming your entry requirements so payments, apps, and local travel work more smoothly.
1
Set up payments
Mobile payment is often the default in China. Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay before relying on shops, restaurants, taxis, or attraction tickets.
- Link an international bank card if possible.
- Test the app before departure.
- Keep one backup payment method.
2
Set up mobile data
Internet access affects maps, translation, ride-hailing, payment verification, hotel communication, and QR-code tickets.
- Choose roaming, eSIM, or local SIM.
- Check whether SMS verification works.
- Install key apps before arrival.
3
Learn transport basics
Understand metro, taxi, DiDi, high-speed rail, and domestic flights before your first airport, station, or hotel transfer.
- Know when to use metro, taxi, DiDi, train, or flight.
- Save your hotel address in Chinese.
- Leave extra time for stations and security checks.
Printable checklists
Save the practical checklists
Four printable PDFs for preparation, arrival, payments, and daily travel.