Install and configure these apps before takeoff. The first 24 hours in China are much easier when payments, navigation, and transport tools are ready.
China Basics
Set up Alipay and WeChat Pay before departure so your first meals, metro rides, and convenience-store purchases are seamless. Confirm card linking early to avoid verification delays while roaming. Having both apps gives you backup if one payment flow fails.
China Basics
Step-by-step setup for Alipay: download, international card linking, verification, and first payment. Learn how to use Alipay for transit, shops, and street vendors with confidence.
China Basics
Complete WeChat Pay walkthrough: wallet activation, binding foreign cards, and using Mini Programs. Essential for peer-to-peer payments and services that prefer WeChat.
China Basics
China map workflows differ from Google Maps, especially for Chinese place names and exact entrances. Install map apps that support transit routing, walking directions, and address search in Chinese. Save key destinations offline so you can still navigate if signal drops.
China Basics
Use booking apps that support passport details, foreign cards, and bilingual interfaces for trains and flights. Compare options across platforms because cancellation rules and seat availability vary by provider. Keep your confirmations and booking IDs in screenshots for quick station checks.
China Basics
Book high-speed train tickets, hotels, flights, attraction tickets, eSIMs, and airport transfers — all in English with foreign card support. Trip.com is the all-in-one booking platform every China traveler needs.
China Basics
Install and test your VPN before entering China, since provider websites and downloads may be blocked after arrival. Prepare at least one backup profile in case a server becomes unstable. Launch checks from airport Wi-Fi so your core apps work immediately when you land.
China Basics
WeChat is essential for messaging, service chats, and many day-to-day mini-program tasks. Configure your account and contacts before you fly so local coordination is easy on arrival. Add translation tools and saved phrase lists to handle routine conversations smoothly.
💬 WeChat is essential for messaging in China — see our WeChat Pay guide for full setup. Read more →
China Basics
China’s super-app for food delivery, hotels, movie tickets, and group deals. Learn how to order food, book hotels, and find discounted experiences with Meituan (美团).
China Basics
China’s Uber for ride-hailing, bike sharing, and bus routes. Setup guide, safety tips, and pricing for foreign travelers using Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行).
Do payments first, then maps, then travel booking. Keep screenshots of account confirmations in case SMS verification gets delayed while roaming.