Pre-flight checklist

Everything to sort before you land. Progress is saved on this device — come back anytime.

• 1–2 months beforeCheck your visa situation (use the Visa Check tool) and passport validity (6+ months).
• 1–2 months beforeBook flights — 240h transit travelers must route Country A → China → a different third country; same-country round trips do not qualify.
• 2–3 weeks beforeBuy a travel eSIM with unlimited data (roaming eSIMs keep Google/WhatsApp/Instagram working — no VPN needed).
• 2–3 weeks beforeInstall Alipay, link your Visa/Mastercard, and test it — see the payment guide.
• 2–3 weeks beforeInstall WeChat (needed for attraction reservations and group chats).
• 2–3 weeks beforeInstall AMap (English maps that actually work in China) and Trip.com.
• 1 week beforeBook train tickets on 12306 or Trip.com — passport is accepted as ID.
• 1 week beforeReserve major attractions (Forbidden City, National Museum) — many require advance real-name booking via WeChat or official mini-programs.
• 1 week beforeBook hotels that accept foreigners — check reviews mention foreign guests.
• 1 week beforeDownload offline Google Translate / Pleco Chinese packs and your offline maps.
• 1 week beforeScreenshot or save your hotel addresses in Chinese characters (show to taxi drivers).
• Day beforeCharge everything; screenshot your eSIM QR activation steps (you activate it on landing).
• Day beforeTake photos of your passport info page (needed for check-ins and bookings).
• Day beforeTell your bank you will use cards in China (some block foreign transactions).
• In your carry-onPassport, eSIM QR backup, power bank (must be carry-on, not checked), universal adapter (Type A/I plugs).