This is important!
If you’re going to China, you’d want to read this and prepare these things prior to your trip!
China is one of the most fascinating, advanced, and culturally rich countries you can visit — but it’s also one of the most misunderstood.
It’s not “hard” to travel in China. It’s just different.
From payments and apps to internet access, maps, transportation, and even how you order food, the system works in a completely different way than most of the world. And if you don’t prepare in advance, small things can quickly turn into unnecessary stress.
Before my first trip, I did my research and I’m so glad I did. The right setup made my experience smoother thats for sure. Here you’ll find some tips to make your trip smoother too!
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Watch more of my China restaurants and travel food experiences on my cuisines instagram!
Here is what you need to know before your trip!
Things You Need to Set Up Before You Land
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1 VPN (Do This Before Arrival)
Many international apps and websites are restricted in China, including:
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Google
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Instagram
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WhatsApp
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Gmail
If you need access to these, download and activate a VPN before arriving. Once you land, you may not be able to access the VPN website to download it.
Here is a few:
- Shadow rocket (but you need to register online and have a server for it to work – paid) | this is the one I used
- PuerVPN
- LetsVPN
- Hotspot Shield
This is one of the most important steps.
2. Internet: eSIM, or Roaming?
You have three main options:
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International roaming (easiest, Ive used my roaming but the issue was limited data a day)
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eSIM (very convenient for short stays), AirAlo app should work fine for e-SIM
Hotels generally have strong WiFi — but still restricted so this will only work with VPN.
3. Download Essential Apps Before You Go
China is extremely app-based. Having the right apps changes everything. Here are the must-download apps which will be very useful in your trip:
Payment
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Alipay (set up and do the identity verification soonest you can)
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WeChat (has payment, and acts as WhatsApp for chatting as well)
Foreign cards can now be linked, but set them up before arrival to avoid stress. Apple pay works but not with all vendors and all venues, Ali pay is more famous – however pay attention to the fee that no one talks about which is 3% for transactions above a specific amount.
Transport
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Didi (China’s Uber)
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Alipay also integrates taxi booking
Maps
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Apple Maps works surprisingly well
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Amap or Baidu Maps (mostly Chinese interface, ive used Amap which worked fine for me)
Translation
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Google Translate (download offline language)
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Or Apple Translate
Without these apps, simple tasks become complicated as simple as telling the taxi where to go or how to order food at times.
4. Language Barrier: What to Expect
English is not widely spoken outside international hotels.
Prepare by:
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Saving addresses in Chinese
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Screenshotting destination names
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Using translation apps
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Showing drivers your phone screen instead of explaining verbally
People are helpful — but communication requires tools.
5. QR Codes Are Everywhere
Menus, payments, bookings, tickets, QR codes run daily life.
Make sure:
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Your camera works
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Your payment app is ready
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Your phone has battery (pack a portable charge, ensure it aligns with airport security rules they were changed recently with a specific portable charger types)
6. Hotel Tip
The English hotel name may not be recognized by drivers.
Always:
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Save the Chinese version
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Keep the hotel’s digital business card
This avoids confusion late at night.
Final Thoughts: China Is Easy If You’re Prepared
China feels overwhelming only when you land unprepared.
But once you:
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Set up payments
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Download the right apps
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Understand how transport works
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Accept the digital system
It becomes one of the smoothest travel experiences you can have. Efficient. Fast. Safe. Organized.
Preparation is everything.
