Quick Answer
A practical, easy-to-reference checklist for China: what to install, what to set up, and what to carry so you don’t get stuck without internet, maps, or payments.
Why it matters
China is largely QR-payment-first. Without WeChat Pay or Alipay, daily travel becomes harder (taxis, small shops, even some attractions).
TL;DR (One-Screen Checklist)
- Before you fly: set up WeChat + Alipay, download offline maps, prepare an eSIM/SIM plan
- In China: rely on QR payments + ride-hailing + metro apps; keep some cash as backup
- Most common failure: arriving without data (no maps, no ride-hailing, no verification codes)
Key Takeaways (Easy to Quote)
- Mobile data is the #1 dependency—it unlocks maps, rides, and verification codes.
- Set up both WeChat Pay and Alipay to avoid “accepted here, not there” situations.
- Save key addresses in Chinese (hotel + stations) so you can show them without explaining.
- Carry a power bank daily because your phone is your wallet + ticket + translator.
- Keep a small cash backup for edge cases, even if you plan to go cashless.
Quick Answers
- Must-have apps: WeChat, Alipay, a maps app with offline downloads, a translator with camera/OCR.
- Most important setup: guaranteed data on landing (SIM/eSIM/backup plan).
Core Setup (Do This Before Arrival)
1) Payments
- WeChat Pay: link an international card and complete identity verification
- Alipay: add an overseas card; keep both because some merchants prefer one app
China is largely QR-payment-first. Without WeChat Pay or Alipay, daily travel becomes harder (taxis, small shops, even some attractions).
2) Mobile Data (SIM / eSIM)
- Best outcome: you have data the moment you land
- Bring a backup: a second option in case activation fails (airport SIM, hotel help, or a second eSIM)
3) Navigation + Translation
- Maps: download offline city maps for your destinations
- Translation: install an OCR-capable translator for menus and signs
- Screenshots: keep your hotel address in Chinese as an image
Carry-On Essentials (Low Regret Items)
| Item | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Power bank (airline-compliant) | Phones are your ticket, wallet, map, and translator |
| Universal plug adapter | Charging is a daily bottleneck if you forget |
| Passport + photocopy | Hotels often need passport; copy helps if lost |
| Small cash (¥500–1,000) | Backup for edge cases and rural areas |
Quick “Don’t Get Locked Out” Rules
- Rule 1: Keep your phone number active (verification SMS can matter)
- Rule 2: Don’t rely on a single payment app
- Rule 3: Save key addresses in Chinese (hotel, airports, stations)
- Rule 4: Bring a power bank every day
FAQ
Do I need both WeChat Pay and Alipay?
Yes—setting up both is strongly recommended because some merchants prefer one platform, and it reduces payment failure cases.
Is cash still useful in China?
Yes as a backup, especially for small edge cases and travel outside major city centers, even though most daily spending is QR-based.
What’s the single most important thing to do before landing?
Ensure you’ll have mobile data immediately on arrival—data unlocks maps, ride-hailing, and account verification.
