critical
Confirm outbound ticket & airport rules
International terminals need extra time for security and immigration. Keep passport, tickets, and any registration paperwork ready.
Directory
Leave
Exit cleanly: tickets, wallets, SIM, leftover RMB.
Pure navigation — official links and notes. No checkboxes here.
1 · Tickets & timing
critical
Pack exit documents
You may be asked for passport, visa/entry proof, and sometimes lodging registration. Digital copies help if paper is buried.
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2 · Money cleanup
optional
Tax refund (only if you used the program)
Departure tax refund desks exist at major airports for eligible purchases. Rules, minimums, and sealed-bag checks change — follow airport signage and keep invoices.
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recommended
Deal with leftover RMB
Spend down small notes on campus/airport purchases, or convert at licensed counters if you kept exchange receipts. Do not rely on random street changers.
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recommended
Settle Alipay / WeChat balances
Check pending refunds, ride deposits, and unbinding rules inside each app before you lose your mainland number. Policies change — follow in-app help.
3 · Phone & lodging
optional
SIM / eSIM wind-down
Decide whether to keep the number for a return trip. If cancelling, finish SMS-dependent wallet steps first.
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recommended
Check out and keep receipts
Ask for a checkout receipt / invoice if your company needs it. Return keys and confirm no open minibar holds on your card/wallet.
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4 · At the airport
critical
Security, immigration, customs
Follow airport signs for international departures. Declare when required. Keep liquids and batteries within airline rules.
optional
If you will return soon
Note what category you used this time and what changes for the next trip. Do not assume the same visa-free window still applies months later.