China Travel Checklist 2026: What to Set Up Before You Go

I asked recent travelers what their biggest concerns were before visiting China. The answers were remarkably consistent. This article is my response — a practical, step-by-step checklist built around the top worries people actually have.

I've guided hundreds of clients through their first China arrival. These are the things I make sure every single one of them has sorted before they land.

Before You Leave Home

Step 1: Set Up Payments (This Is #1)

**Alipay** is essential. WeChat Pay is your backup. Do this before you arrive.

**Test it before you go:** If you know someone with Alipay, ask them to send you 1 RMB. If the transfer works, your verification is complete.

**Carry ¥1,000 in cash as backup.** Sometimes SMS verification fails for international numbers, and cash saves the day. I've had clients stranded at a street stall with no signal and no cash — ¥100 would've solved it.

➡️ Full guide: [How to Use WeChat Pay and Alipay](/blog/how-to-use-wechat-pay-alipay-foreigner)

Step 2: Install the Right Apps

The apps you use at home (Google Maps, Uber, WhatsApp) don't work the same way here. Install these before you land:

➡️ Full guide: [Must-Have Apps for China Travel](/blog/must-have-apps-for-china-travel)

Step 3: Internet Access — Choose Your Strategy

**Option A: eSIM (recommended)**

Alipay sells eSIM packages at about 1/3 the price of Airalo. Buy it a week before, but don't activate until you land. On arrival, turn on your eSIM data line and enable international data roaming. Your Western apps (Google, Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook) will work without a VPN.

**Option B: VPN + local SIM**

Install and test your VPN before you leave — you can't download VPN apps inside China. Buy a local SIM at the airport if needed.

**Option C: International roaming**

Check with your home carrier. Some plans include China data now.

Step 4: Prepare Your Documents

Step 5: Pack These Essentials

From real traveler feedback:

After You Land

First Hour Checklist

1. **Activate your eSIM** (if you bought one)

2. **Test a small payment** — Buy a bottle of water at a convenience store (FamilyMart, 7-Eleven, Lawson) using Alipay. This confirms everything works.

3. **Test DiDi** — Open Alipay → Transport → Taxi. If it doesn't work, download the standalone DiDi app (it has a full English interface).

4. **Test Amap navigation** — Search for your hotel. If it can't find the English name, try the Chinese name or pinyin.

5. **Keep your passport with you** — You need it for high-speed trains, most attraction entries, and some hotel check-ins.

Pro Tips From Real Travelers

**Want a personalised version of this checklist?** [Tell me about your trip](/plan-your-trip) and I'll customise it for your specific cities and travel style.