Prep

Install while you still have Google Play / App Store access and fast Wi‑Fi. Update everything before boarding.

1. WeChat — messaging + payments
2. Alipay — payments + many transit mini programs
3. Amap (Gaode Maps) — navigation (more reliable than Google Maps inland)
4. A translate app that works offline or with mainland networks
5. Your airline app + offline boarding pass

Some foreign apps and sites work poorly on mainland networks. If you need work email, home banking apps, or international messengers, arrange access before boarding. Prefer your employer’s licensed channel when available.

1. Install and test any connectivity tool on home Wi‑Fi
2. Confirm it still connects on mobile data before departure
3. Download offline maps / translations as backup

China regulates unauthorized VPN services. We link information only — comply with local law; no circumvention tutorials.

Bring at least one translator that works on mainland networks (e.g. Baidu / Youdao). Keep a second option for when connectivity allows.

Add these if your itinerary needs them. Prefer official stores.

1. 12306 or railway booking access if you will take high-speed rail
2. DiDi (or local ride-hail) if you expect taxis from the airport
3. Hotel chain app if you booked a major brand

New WeChat accounts sometimes need an existing user to verify. Solving that abroad is easier than at a mainland airport desk.

1. Register with a number you can receive SMS on while traveling
2. Complete any real-name prompts the app shows
3. Message a friend once to confirm chat works

Verification UX changes. Follow in-app instructions; we cannot verify accounts for you.

You can often begin passport verification and foreign-card binding before arrival. Finish any remaining SMS steps after you have a mainland number if required.

1. Install Alipay and open the foreign-visitor / wallet card flow
2. Add a supported international card if offered
3. Read fee / limit notices inside the app
4. Skim ChinaCopilot payment guide for failure fallbacks

Travel blocks are a common reason foreign cards fail on Alipay/WeChat.

1. Enable international transactions
2. Add China to travel notices if your bank uses them
3. Know the bank’s fraud hotline

Screenshot and download PDFs. Do not depend on email search at immigration or a hotel desk.

1. Passport bio page photo
2. Visa / authorization printout if any
3. Hotel / lodging confirmation with Chinese address
4. Return or onward ticket if your entry type needs it
5. Travel insurance summary (if you carry one)
6. Emergency contacts list

Phones die. Keep a paper backup of the Chinese hotel address for taxi drivers.

1. Passport in hand luggage
2. Printed hotel address in Chinese
3. One backup card / some cash in a separate pocket

Crisp notes exchange more easily. A dual-SIM or eSIM-capable phone reduces friction.

1. Small USD/EUR/other major currency float
2. Unlocked phone if you will insert a mainland SIM
3. Power bank through security rules
4. Universal adaptor

Bring personal meds in original packaging plus a simple English/Latin name list. Rules for specific drugs vary — check official customs guidance if unsure.

If any box below is open, fix it before you board.

1. Entry rules re-checked this week on an official site
2. WeChat + Alipay installed
3. Night-1 address in Chinese offline
4. Cash backup packed
5. Screenshots of bookings saved