Everything You Need to Prepare for Your Trip to China

Practical, fact-checked guides for visas, eSIM, payments, packing, trains, and cultural etiquette — written for foreign visitors.

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Visa
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Internet
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Payments
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Packing
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Transport

Featured Pre-Trip Guides

Pre-Trip Checklist for China — Complete Timeline Guide

Your complete timeline checklist for preparing a trip to China. From passport validity to on-arrival steps, we cover every essential task.

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Visa & Documents — Tourist Visa Rules for China (2026)

Everything foreign travelers need to know about Chinese tourist visas — visa-free countries, required documents, passport rules, and what to carry.

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Internet & Connectivity in China — eSIM, SIM Cards & WiFi (2026)

How foreign travelers can stay connected in China — eSIM recommendations, local SIM options, hotel WiFi, and tips for accessing maps and messaging apps.

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Money & Payments in China — Credit Cards, Alipay, WeChat Pay & Cash

Complete payment guide for foreign visitors in China — where credit cards work, how to use Alipay/WeChat Pay, and when you still need cash.

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Packing Guide for China — By Season & City (2026)

What to pack for China by season — from Beijing winter layers to Guilin summer gear. Plus full prohibited items list and essential travel gear.

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Domestic Transport in China — Trains, Didi, Metro & Intercity Options

Complete guide to getting around China as a foreigner — high-speed trains, Didi ride-hailing, city metros, and intercity transport comparisons.

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Quick Pre-Trip Timeline

3 Months Before

  • Check passport validity (6+ months remaining)
  • Apply for tourist visa well in advance
  • Book international flights
  • Research your destinations

1 Month Before

  • Arrange eSIM or international roaming
  • Pre-book high-speed train tickets
  • Set up Alipay / WeChat Pay (tourist version)
  • Get travel insurance
  • Start packing season-appropriate clothes

1 Week Before

  • Download essential apps (Didi, Maps)
  • Exchange some cash (small amounts)
  • Print hotel confirmations
  • Scan passport and visa pages
  • Check prohibited items list

On Arrival

  • Complete immigration / customs forms
  • Collect luggage and exit airport
  • Get local SIM or activate eSIM
  • Take transport to your hotel
See the Full Checklist →