Set Up Alipay BEFORE You Land
China is virtually cashless. Most vendors (even street stalls) do not take physical cash or foreign credit cards; they use QR codes. In China, Alipay isn’t just a digital wallet; it is a “Super App” that replaces dozens of other apps you would normally use. Whether you want to book your taxi from the airport to your hotel, use public transportation, or book your accomodation, everything is used through Alipay. Save yourself the trouble and have everything set up before even stepping foot in China.
Download “LetsVPN”
Most Western apps (Instagram, WhatsApp, Google) are blocked in China. Download LetsVPN (it is currently the most reliable for China’s specific firewall) and pay for the subscription before you enter the country. Once you are behind the firewall, it is very difficult to download a VPN app. Having a backup is also a smart move, but LetsVPN was my favorite for speed and reliability.
Google Translate is Your Lifeline
English in general is rarely spoken, even at hotels. Download Google Translate and specifically download the “Chinese (Simplified) – Offline” language pack. You will use the “Camera” feature constantly to translate menus, street signs, and instructions. Since you’ll have your VPN on, Google Translate will work perfectly, but the offline pack is your safety net.
Use Amap (Gaode) Instead of Google Maps
As someone who was dropped off at the wrong hotel multiple times, save yourself the headache and download amap. Google Maps is notoriously inaccurate in China (sometimes off by blocks), and Apple Maps is hit-or-miss. It is the gold standard for China. Even though the interface is in Chinese, you can copy-paste Chinese addresses from Tripadvisor or your hotel app into it. It shows real-time subway exits and the most accurate walking paths.
Your Passport is Your Entry Ticket
In China, your passport is more than just a travel document; it’s your “ID for everything.” Keep your physical passport on you at all times. You will need it to enter museums, buy train tickets, and even enter popular public squares (like Tiananmen) or certain neighborhoods. Security checkpoints are common, and “Digital Photos” of your passport are often not accepted at major landmarks.
Carry Tissues and Hand Sanitizer
Many public restrooms in China (even in nice malls) do not provide toilet paper. Being prepared will save you a very awkward situation! Always keep a pack of tissues and sanitizer in your bag.