China First Timer

Before you board

Most first-trip problems are solved at home, with Wi-Fi and your bank's app open. Tick items off as you go; your progress is saved on this device only.

Documents Passport valid for at least 6 months, with blank pages · how Know your entry basis: visa-free, 240-hour transit or visa · how Onward ticket to a third country if using 240-hour transit · how Arrival card filled online on the official NIA site or app (free) · how Travel insurance that covers medical care in China · how Photos of your passport and visa saved offline

Money Alipay installed, verified with your passport and a card linked · how WeChat installed with WeChat Pay and a card linked · how A small test payment made before you fly · how Some cash in RMB, or a card that works at Chinese ATMs · how Bank told about your trip so payments are not blocked

Phone and apps Roaming plan or eSIM with data that works in China · how Amap or Apple Maps installed (Google Maps is unreliable in China) · how Didi set up for taxis, with a payment method · how Railway 12306 or Trip.com account for train tickets · how Translation app with Chinese downloaded for offline use · how Hotel name and address saved in Chinese characters · how

Bookings Big sights booked with your passport number, up to 7 days ahead · how Intercity trains booked, especially near public holidays · how First night's hotel booked and airport transfer planned · how

Health Medicines in original packaging, with a copy of prescriptions · how Emergency numbers saved: 110 police, 120 ambulance · how