Start Here
for China
Set up payments, mobile data, and transport basics before planning the rest of your trip.
Quick answer
For a first trip to China, prepare payment, mobile data, and transport basics first. These three steps make maps, tickets, hotels, QR codes, and daily travel much easier.
Your first 3 steps
Start with these essentials before building a detailed itinerary.
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.
