What You Will Always Need On A Trip to China
China is a place where nature and futuristic cities coexist in harmony. Whether you’re exploring the Great Wall, cruising down the Li River, or sampling street food in Chengdu, being well-prepared makes all the difference. Traveling in China can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with its own set of challenges — from language barriers to cashless payments and cultural etiquette. Before you board that flight, make sure you’ve packed more than just your suitcase — pack the right mindset, tools, and essentials for a smooth journey.
Setting Up Alipay/Wechat Pay
China is almost entirely cashless, and Alipay is one of the main ways locals pay for everything—from street food to train tickets.
Most small shops and restaurants no longer accept cash or foreign cards, so having Alipay (or WeChat Pay) is essential. The app works by scanning QR codes in order to pay, making is very convenient for everyday purchases.
It is also recommended to carry some spare cash with you when planning to travel to more rural areas.
Purchasing a VPN
Traveling to China often means facing internet restrictions that block popular websites like Google, Facebook, and YouTube. To stay connected and access most apps, using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is essential.
A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through servers outside China, allowing you to bypass censorship and browse freely. Just remember to set up your VPN before arriving, and choose a reliable provider.
Keeping Copies Of All Documents
China is a country where having ID is very important wherever you go.
For example, before boarding a long-distance train, you will need to provide documents such as your passport. Your passport serves as your primary identification and proof of legal status in the country. Along with your passport, keep copies of your visa, travel itinerary, hotel reservations, and any other relevant documents.
Carry both physical copies and digital versions stored securely on your device or cloud. These documents are crucial for customs checks, train or flight boarding, and in case of emergencies.
Preparing For Local Customs
When entering train stations in China, bag checks are a common security measure. Upon arrival, you’ll need to go through security screening similar to airport procedures.
Place your bags and personal items on the conveyor belt for inspection, and pass through a metal detector. Be prepared for security personnel to ask questions or request to see your tickets and identification, such as your passport. Make sure you have a bag that is secure, and that can keep all documents dry.
As well as this, your journey can also be eased by installing drive-hailing apps like Didi, where you can hail taxis for local rates.