Planning a trip to China? Whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets of Shanghai, marveling at the ancient wonders of the Great Wall, or savoring authentic dumplings in Beijing, China offers a captivating mix of history, culture, and modernity. To help you make the most of your adventure, we’ve compiled a list of essential travel tips. From navigating the language barrier to understanding local customs, these practical insights will ensure your journey is smooth, enriching, and unforgettable. Read on to prepare for an extraordinary experience in the Middle Kingdom!
1. Get a VPN Before You Go
China’s internet is heavily restricted, and many services like Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, and YouTube are blocked.
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- Download a reliable VPN (Virtual Private Network) before you leave, as you won’t be able to install it once you’re there.
- Test it beforehand to ensure it works seamlessly.
2. Install Key Apps for Convenience
Although the spread of the English language is spreading in the more urban areas of China, it’s still limited outside major cities.
- Memorize essential phrases for greetings, ordering food, and asking for directions.
- Download offline Mandarin phrasebooks or translation tools like Google Translate.
3. Pack for Diverse Weather
China’s climate varies drastically by region and season.
- Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll walk a lot while exploring cities, temples, and natural sites.
- Layers are your best friend.
4. Download Offline Maps
Google Maps won’t work without a VPN, but apps like Maps.me or Baidu Maps (in Chinese) can save the day.
- Save screen shots of maps of the areas you plan to visit for offline use.
5. Plan for Toiletries and Bathroom Breaks
Public restrooms are often basic and lack supplies.
- Carry tissues, hand sanitizer, and even a portable bidet or wipes.
- Familiarize yourself with squat toilets and plan accordingly.
6. Prepare for Transportation Nuances
- Trains: China’s high-speed rail is efficient; book tickets in advance through apps like Trip.com.
- Taxis and Rideshares: Use apps like Didi (the Chinese version of Uber).
- Always carry your hotel address written in Mandarin to show drivers.
7. Stay Hydrated and Eat Smart
Snacks: Bring your favorites for long trips or rural visits.
Water: Tap water is not drinkable; always drink bottled or boiled water.
Food: Street food is delicious, but opt for stalls with high turnover to ensure freshness.
8. Look up Key Chinese Phrases
Depending on whether you are traveling with a tour or not, the importance of this will vary.
- If you aren’t going with a tour, we highly reccomend either bringing someone who is fluent in Chinese, or making sure you bring a phrasebook or translator app such as Pleco or iTranslate in order to communicate with local Chinese people.
- If you are taking one of our tours, we will have a tour guide already fluent in Chinese, but it may be helpful to learn a few key phrases in order to get the most out of your experience.
9. Bring a Power Adapter
In China there are different plug types than in most other countries, so bringing an adapter is highly recommended.
- China uses types A, C and I plugs with ports that operate on 220V. A standard universal power adapter will allow you to plug in your devices and charge them without risk of damage.
10. Do Some Prior Research of Local Etiquette
As in any new country you will travel to, culture norms and etiquette will vary from your country of origin. Because of this, we recommend doing your own research, but here’s some rules to follow for China specifically.
- When you give or receive an item, make sure you do so with both hands to avoid appearing too casual or rude.
- Tipping is considered rude as it makes one seem like they are superior to the person receiving the tip.
- Respecting the elderly is highly valued in China. When speaking to someone older make sure to give them your full attention and speak softer in order to show your respect.