Top 15 China Travel Tips - Things to Know Before You Go

Planning an international trip to China can feel challenging, especially if it is your first time visiting. To help make your trip easier, we have put together 15 important China travel tips that you need to know before traveling to China.

You will learn what documents to prepare, what to pack, and helpful tips about local culture, safety, and everyday travel in China.

Summer view of Great Wall of China

1. Prepare Your Travel Documents for Entering China

Before traveling to China, make sure you have all the required travel documents. This will help you avoid problems when entering the country. The key documents are: 

Passport:

Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from China.

Visa:

Most travelers need a visa to enter China. However, if you are eligible for the 30-day visa-free entry policy, travel is much easier. Citizens of countries such as Italy, France, Germany, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Singapore, and Spain can visit China for up to 30 days without a visa.

In addition, there is also a 10-day visa-free transit policy, travelers from countries such as the United States and Canada can stay in China for up to 10 days without a visa when transiting through the country. For more details please check out: China Travel Documents 2026.

2. VPN: Be Prepared for Internet Restrictions

In China, some overseas websites are blocked. Popular sites such as Google, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are not accessible.

If you need to use these platforms, it is strongly recommended that you purchase and install a VPN before arriving in China. This will allow you to use social media, send and receive emails, and stay connected smoothly during your trip.

3. Prepare for Mobile Payment

Once you arrive in China, you will notice that almost all vendors accept mobile payments, from large shopping malls to local vendors. This means you can buy almost anything using just your phone.

The most popular mobile payment options are Alipay and WeChat Pay. Both apps support linking international Visa or MasterCard cards, simply follow the instructions in the apps to add your card, and you’re ready to go.

4. Take Your Credit Card and Some Cash

Although mobile payments are very common in China, credit cards and cash are still accepted. 

It’s a good idea to bring your credit cards and also exchange some cash for emergencies. Keep in mind that small vendors or local markets may not accept cards, so carrying a small amount of cash is recommended when traveling in China.

5. Always Carry Your Passport

Keep your passport with you at all times. You’ll need it to enter attractions, ride high-speed trains, and check into hotels, so don’t leave it locked in your hotel.

6. Avoid Visiting China During the Big Public Holidays

The top crowded public holiday in China are Spring Festival, May Day Holiday, and the National Day Holiday. During these holidays, most attractions will be crowded, and the traffic will also be extremely busy.  

If you are going to traveling to China during these periods, please make sure book your trip 2-3 months in advance. It will help securing the flights and accommodations, and get a good price if you book inadvance. 

7. Plan Your Trip With Experienced Travel Experts

China is vast and diverse, with countless attractions to choose from, making trip planning challenging, especially for first-time visitors. Working with an experienced travel expert can simplify the process and help you make the most of your time.

Our travel consultants can customize China tour itineraries based on your interests, combining must-see highlights with hidden gems at a comfortable pace. We also handle reservations and provide support throughout your journey, ensuring a smooth, stress-free travel experience. 

8. Carry Toilet Paper with You

Large shopping malls and hotels in China generally provide toilet paper. However, in many scenic areas and older neighborhoods, it is often not available. When traveling, we suggest carrying a small pack of tissues with you at all times.

In addition, China offers a mix of squat and Western-style toilets. Most hotels and shopping malls are equipped with Western toilets, but squat toilets are still common in some scenic areas and older facilities. Being mentally prepared for this will help you avoid unnecessary discomfort during your trip.

9. Don't Drink Tap Water Directly

Tap water in China is not safe for direct consumption. Most hotels provide free bottled water and electric kettles, allowing you to boil water if needed. Alternatively, bottled water is widely available and inexpensive at convenience stores throughout the country.

10. Pack Smartly for Diverse Weather Conditions

China's vast size means it has a wide range of climates. Research the weather conditions of the regions you'll be visiting and pack accordingly. Layers are key, as temperatures can vary greatly between cities and even within a single day. Don't forget essentials like a good pair of walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and rain gear.

11. Download Translation Apps to Bridge the Language Gap

Mandarin is the official language of China and English is not widely spoken, especially in rural areas. And even if you book your tour with a travel agency and have a private guide, you may still have some free time to explore the country by yourselves. So, it is necessary to download translation Apps to help you communicate with the locals.

Besides, you may also learn some basic Chinese phrases like "hello" (nǐ hǎo, 你好), "thank you" (xiè xie, 谢谢), "please" (qǐng wèn, 请问), and so on.

12. Trains Are Sometimes More Efficient Than Planes

High-Speed Train in China

For long-distance intercity travel, it's generally advisable to take a domestic flight to save time, such as traveling from Xi'an to Shanghai or from Chengdu to Lhasa. These flights typically take 2 to 3 hours.

However, the railway system in China nearly covers the entire country, high-speed train is often the better choice. Routes like Beijing to Xi’an or Hong Kong to Guilin are fast and convenient, with trains reaching speeds of 200–350 km/h (124–217 mph). High-speed rail stations are usually closer to city centers, and fares are generally more affordable and stable year-round, making trains sometimes faster and better value than flying.

13. Tipping Is Not Common in China

Unlike the West, tipping in China is generally unexpected. Restaurants might include a service charge, but otherwise a small tip for outstanding service is appreciated. The same goes for hotels if staff go the extra mile. Taxis and other services don't require tipping, but rounding up the fare shows courtesy. Remember, a sincere "xie xie" (thank you) is always the best way to express gratitude.

14. Check Your Power Bank

For domestic flights in China, power banks must have a capacity under 100Wh. Power banks made in China are required to carry CCC (China Compulsory Certification), while foreign-made power banks may be accepted with CE or FCC certification. These regulations apply only to domestic flights and do not affect train travel or international flights.

If you are unsure whether your power bank meets these requirements, it is safest to leave it at home and purchase a compliant one after arriving in China.

15. Be Adventurous to Chinese Cuisine

Chinese cuisine varies widely by region. From fiery Sichuan hot pot to delicate Shanghainese soup dumplings (xiao long bao), each area has its own iconic dishes. When traveling in China, try local specialties, you’ll gain a richer and more enjoyable experience.

Plan Your Trip With China Odyssey Tours

By following these China travel tips, your trip will be much smoother. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us or reach us at trip@odynovotours.com. We're happy to offer you more information about China and help you create your own itinerary.