Ⅰ Visa | Policy
Do you need a visa for China?
Learn about the latest policy now.
Ⅱ Travel Essentials
A list of items that are easy to overlook and overlooked but you'll definitely need while traveling in China
Ⅱ Travel Essentials
A list of items that are easy to overlook and overlooked but you’ll definitely need while traveling in China
Ⅲ Travel Resources
Must-have apps in china for traveling and travel resources sharing.
Ⅳ Domestic Transportation
Intercity and intracity public transportation. And self-diving tour tips
Ⅴ Pay | Tax
Payment service and tax refund policy for overseas visitors.
Ⅵ Health | Safety
Medical Treatment and Purchasing Medication Call the police for help Emergency Contact Tap Water Extreme Weather Warnings Tips for Female Travelers Medical treatment flowchart International
Ⅶ Culture | Law
Laws & Regulations and a complete Guide to travel culture and etiquette in China.
01.
Verification of Identity
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Color photocopy of your passport visa page
Keep it handy！
- When staying at hotels in China, you need to show your passport for registration. If the front desk temporarily keeps the original, you can safely carry a photocopy everywhere to avoid misplacing it.
- Plus, it helps if the police decide to check your identity randomly.
- You need to write down your exact Chinese address (down to the neighborhood/street) on the entry card.
- Most taxi drivers aren’t familiar with English addresses, so having a printed Chinese address on hand makes things go smoother.
Keep it handy!
- Border control might ask for proof that you won’t be overstaying, and you can’t show an electronic version if your phone dies.
- Please note: English orders from third-party platforms (like Ctrip) may lack necessary visa information.
Bring this with you on entry day!
Keep this close, too!
02.
Travel Plans & Insurance Document
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A detailed itinerary in Chinese (make sure to include the hotel address!)
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Round-trip flight confirmation (in paper format)
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Travel insurance document (covers medical, accidents, flight delays, and lost luggage)
03.
Available Discount Credentials
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Student ID
It's a good idea to carry your student ID with you! (If you have one)
- Many tourist attractions, cultural events, performances and restaurants in China offer free admission or discounts to students.
Upon arrival, check with the local tourism bureau for the latest discount policies.
- You need to write down your exact Chinese address (down to the neighborhood/street) on the entry card.
- Most taxi drivers aren’t familiar with English addresses, so having a printed Chinese address on hand makes things go smoother.
China does not recognize the standalone use of an IDP. However, it can serve as a temporary driving credential when presented together with your original driver's license.
- Car rental platforms (e.g., China Auto Rental – Shenzhou Zuche) require both the IDP and the original driver’s license to be shown.
04.
other
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International Driving Permit (IDP) or Chinese Driver’s License
05.
Safety Brands
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Medical Information Card
Includes Allergy Aler, List of Allergy Medications, Blood Type, etc.
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Emergency Contact
♥ In Chinese hospitals, paper-based medical records are prioritized during emergencies. Electronic medical record systems are not yet fully interoperable.
♥An emergency contact within China is preferable
It is best to have a local contact who can communicate in both Chinese and English (e.g., hotel front desk), rather than solely relying on overseas emergency contacts. It is highly recommended to include their WeChat ID (this can facilitate remote communication assistance with police or ambulance services in China).
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Luggagebrands
- Material Selection
| Type | Suitable Scenarios | Recommended Products |
|---|---|---|
|
Silicone Waterproof |
Rainy season in the South (Guangzhou/Shanghai), humid baggage handling environments |
Anti-tear silicone luggage tag |
|
Metal Engraved Plate |
Frequent transfers (Beijing/Urumqi), wear-resistant |
Suggest customizing overseas in advance (confirm Chinese character library completeness) |
|
Double-sided Erasable Card Holder |
Frequent address changes for multi-leg journeys |
PP material type |
We offer a variety of material selections in our online store.
We’ll send whatever you order straight to your hotel in China.
No need to stress about packing all sorts of bits and pieces – save that luggage space!
We want to make settling into China as smooth as possible for you.
- Size Specifications
For international flights: Recommended size is 9cm × 6cm (compliant with IATA standards to prevent jamming on conveyor belts)
Color Selection
Color depends on personal preference, but we recommend choosing bright colors (e.g., fluorescent yellow/orange).
For domestic connecting flights, smaller suitcases can use a size of 7cm × 5cm (conveyor belts at China’s smaller airports are narrower).
Red suitcases are very common during the Chinese Spring Festival; avoid using red to prevent confusion.
06.
Digtal Help card
We offer customized bilingual (Chinese-English) Safety Brands & Help card services in our online store.
We’ll send whatever you order straight to your hotel in China.
No need to stress about packing all sorts of bits and pieces – save that luggage space!
We want to make settling into China as smooth as possible for you.
07.
Phone Cards & Data Plans
We’ve looked at what’s the best bang for your buck, what gives you a solid internet connection, and what’s easiest to use while you’re exploring China. Here are a few ways to stay connected!
| Plan | Internet Access | Calls/SMS | Basic Alipay Payment | Ease of Use in China | Tips | score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
eSIM |
eSIM: Local SIM: |
❌ International number ✅ Local number calls/SMS |
✅ Linked to local phone number (supports all functions) |
✅ Quick registration for Chinese Apps |
|
Overall: Cost-Effectiveness: ★★★★☆ |
|
VPN |
VPN: Local SIM: |
❌ International number ✅ Local number for calls/SMS |
|
Overall : Cost-Effectiveness: ★★★★★ |
||
|
International Roaming |
lnternational roaming: |
✅ International number ✅ Local number for calls/SMS |
|
Overall : Cost-Effectiveness: ★★★☆☆ |
||
|
International roaming |
International roaming: |
✅ International number |
⚠️ Binding international cards requires manual review |
❌Does not support registration of some Chinese apps |
|
Overall: |
It’s good to know that many popular western websites like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, Snapchat, and most of Google’s services are blocked by the GFW.
So, to make sure your trip here is smooth sailing online, we’ve cooked up a few options that’ll let you:
1）Simultaneous access to international websites (e.g., Google Maps, Instagram) and domestic Chinese websites.
2）Ability to make and receive calls and text messages to prevent emergencies.
3）Ability to use basic Alipay payment functions.
08.
Stay Connected : VPN
♥Get your VPN app installed and fire it up at least once before you even land in China! This makes sure your account is good to go.
♥Grab at least two different VPN apps before you leave home. If one decides to take a break, you’ll have a backup!
For VPN performance comparison and selection recommendations, please refer to
09.
Purchasing eSIM Card
♥Make sure the eSIM you choose can sneak past China’s internet firewall (the Great Firewall).
♥Double-check if your phone plays nice with eSIMs before you buy one.
Here are a few popular eSIM sellers you might want to check out (but there are definitely more out there!):
♥Real-name authentication is required to apply for a SIM card in China.
♥Tourists can usually get a temporary local number sorted in about 20 minutes. Perfect for maps, paying for stuff, and staying in touch!
♥If you no longer use a phone/mobile number, you must go to one of the branches and complete the account cancellation procedures
Airports
Airport desks might not be open super late, so if you’re arriving at night (China time), they might be closed. Worth checking their hours!
Nationwide telecoms companies such as China Mobile and China Unicom have counters in the major international airports (such as China Mobile and China Unicom). Foreign visitors can purchase a Chinese SIM card at these counters (a passport must be presented).
Mobile Carrier Stores
Try to find stores with a “Foreign Service” (涉外服务) sign – you’ll mostly see these in bigger cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, but all their shops should be able to help. If you’re not sure, give them a ring beforehand to check.
visit one of their branches with your valid passport.
English Customer Service Hotlines：
☎ China Mobile：+86-13800100186
☎ China Unicom：+86-18618610010
Online Sign-Up
Log on to the offcial website of a Chinese telecom operator and fill in your passport details, and then just pick up your SIM card when you arrive.
Hotel Assistance for SIM Cards
It is recommended to inquire with the hotel in advance via email whether they support this service.
Four-star hotels and above usually offer SIM card activation services (charging a handling fee of ¥50-100).
10.
Purchasing a Chinese SIM Card
Charging Devices
Living in China means your phone is your best friend! Especially for tourists who need to take photos and navigate. Therefore, it is often necessary to charge phones multiple times a day.
The supply voltage in China is 220V. Most luxury hotel rooms are equipped with universal sockets, and guests can also rent adapters at the hotel’s front desk.
Shared Power Banks
In various corners of airports, high-speed railway stations, subway stations, shops, and restaurants throughout China, you can find shared power banks of different brands. You can rent them by scanning a QR code with Alipay or WeChat, and the fee will be deducted online upon return.
“Traps” of Shared Power Banks
High Rental Costs: Average ¥5 per hour; failure to return within 24 hours will result in a mandatory charge of ¥99.
Difficult Return: Return points in scenic areas and subway stations are often full (requiring a return trip of up to 1 kilometer).
Rental Prerequisites: Requires a charged phone to scan the QR code + enabling Alipay/WeChat password-free payment (cannot rent if the phone battery is dead).
Prioritize choosing chain brands – they have higher coverage, and returning to a different brand requires additional fees.
Monster Charging | 怪兽充电
green
Meituan | 美团
yellow
Jie Dian | 街电
BLUE
It is recommended to carry your own power bank and use shared power banks as an emergency backup option.
Power Banks
Power banks with a capacity of ≤100Wh (approximately 27,000mAh) do not require airline approval.
Power banks with a capacity of 100-160Wh (27,000-43,000mAh) need to be declared in advance, with a limit of 2 per person.
Power banks without clear markings or with falsely labeled capacities are prohibited from boarding.
We offer a variety of portable and compliant power banks and plug adapters in our online store.
We’ll send whatever you order straight to your hotel in China.
No need to stress about packing all sorts of bits and pieces – save that luggage space!
We want to make settling into China as smooth as possible for you.
11.
Other Accessories
Cutlery
Knives & Forks & Chopsticks
🥤 Plastic Restrictions
2023 Update:
No plastic straws/utensils in food delivery unless requested. Violations risk ¥10k+ fines for businesses.
♥If you order takeout and require disposable cutlery, please use a Chinese note such as “需要2人份的餐具” (xūyào liǎng rén fèn de cānjù – need cutlery for two people)
Chinese dining culture traditionally uses chopsticks. If you have never used chopsticks before, you may encounter some difficulties. If you find chopsticks inconvenient, you can bring your own portable cutlery or chopstick helpers to enjoy Chinese cuisine more easily.
♥Some Chinese restaurants may have knives and forks available upon request from the server, but this is not the case in all establishments.
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We offer portable travel cutlery and Chinese chopstick helpers in our online store.
We’ll send whatever you order straight to your hotel in China.
No need to stress about packing all sorts of bits and pieces – save that luggage space!
We want to make settling into China as smooth as possible for you.
We’ve got a cool selection of eco-friendly and safe plastic and insulated mugs, plus some lovely Chinese wellness teas in our shop!
We’ll send whatever you order straight to your hotel in China.
No need to stress about packing all sorts of bits and pieces – save that luggage space!
We want to make settling into China as smooth as possible for you.
Travel Mug
Heat-Resistant & safe
💰 Save Money:
Coffee chains like Starbucks/Manner offer ¥3-5 discounts for reusable cups.
🌏 Join the Trend:
China recycles only 30% of plastics – your cup helps reduce 400+ annual disposable cups/person.
♥Restaurants/high-speed railway stations/hotels offer free hot water
♥99% of Chinese restaurants provide complimentary hot water.
♥ Chinese Wellness Culture:
In Chinese wellness concepts, there is a habit of drinking hot water. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) believes the body needs to maintain a ‘warm-cold balance,’, and cold water may lead to ‘coldness invasion,’ causing stomach pain and fatigue. Hot water is seen as helping your blood flow better and getting rid of toxins. Pretty interesting, huh?
♥If you’re bringing your own mug, maybe skip the PC plastic ones – they can release something called BPA when they get hot, which isn’t ideal for your hot drinks. Look for cups labeled PP5 or Tritan.
♥If you’re coming to China in the winter, a stainless steel (304 or 316 grade) thermos is your best bet to really embrace the local wellness vibes!
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Reusable Shopping Bags
🚫 Free single-use plastic bags
Since 2020 Free single-use plastic bags banned in supermarkets; biodegradable alternatives only (costs ¥0.5-1 each).
♥We recommend bringing foldable nylon bags (lightweight) or cotton/linen bags (strong load-bearing capacity) for convenient shopping in China.
Our uniquely designed cotton and linen bags aren’t just a cool and eco-friendly part of your trip.
They’ll also be a special, one-of-a-kind souvenir to remember your travels by when you get back home.
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We’ve got a bunch of really cool and unique cotton/linen bags with a Chinese twist in our store – check them out!
We’ll send whatever you order straight to your hotel in China.
No need to stress about packing all sorts of bits and pieces – save that luggage space!
We want to make settling into China as smooth as possible for you.
Essential Travel Medications
- Cold and Fever Relief
- Motion Sickness
- Upset Stomach
Chinese food is amazing and super varied! Just a heads up, some places (like Sichuan, Hunan, and Guizhou) really love their spice!
- Allergy Medication
Common allergens for foreigners in China include airborne and food-related allergens. View common allergens for foreigners in China
- Medication You Personally Need
Some medications in China require a prescription (e.g., antibiotics), and pharmacy staff may have limited English communication skills.
Online purchases require real-name authentication with a local phone number.
15.
Medications You Might Not Have Thought Of
- Lactase Tablets (for lactose intolerance)
Differences in Chinese dairy consumption habits
Many Hidden Sources of Dairy: Milk tea (often uses non-dairy creamer or milk powder), bread (may contain whey powder), hot pot dipping sauces (sesame paste may contain milk powder).
Scarcity of Lactose-Free Products: Outside of imported supermarkets in first-tier cities, there are very few lactose-free milk options in most areas.
- Heatstroke Prevention
Climate differences across China
High Temperature and Humidity in the South: In South China (e.g., Guangzhou, Hainan), the perceived temperature in summer often exceeds 40°C. Hot and humid weather easily leads to heatstroke or even heatstroke.
Extreme Dry Heat in the North: In areas like Turpan, the highest temperature can reach 50°C with dry and intense sun exposure.
- Altitude Sickness Prevention
China’s got some incredible high-up places that people love to visit!
Such as Tibet (average altitude above 4000 meters), Western Sichuan (Daocheng Yading 3500-4600 meters), Qinghai Lake (3200 meters).
- Wound Care/Insect Repellent
16.
Protective Items & Personal Hygiene
- Toilet Paper
Definitely keep some tissues or toilet paper handy
Some public restrooms here don’t always have it.
- Disposable Items: Disposable underwear, disposable bedding, disposable toilet seat covers.
- Masks, Disinfectant Wipes
17.
We offer a special Squatty Helper (for squat toilets!)
We’ll send whatever you order straight to your hotel in China.
No need to stress about packing all sorts of bits and pieces – save that luggage space!
We want to make settling into China as smooth as possible for you.
Feminine Hygiene Products
- Tampons
Most women in China use pads, so you might have a harder time finding tampons, especially if you’re traveling to more out-of-the-way places.
18.
We’ve got all sorts of helpful hygiene and protection bits and bobs in our store if you need anything!
We’ll send whatever you order straight to your hotel in China.
No need to stress about packing all sorts of bits and pieces – save that luggage space!
We want to make settling into China as smooth as possible for you.
You can bring a 30-day supply of prescription medication. If you take a regular prescription medicine, it is advisable to stock up before departure and bring doctor’s certificates and medical records in case they are necessary.
