Travel Checklist - eTravelToday

The Ultimate China Travel Checklist

Don't leave home without checking these off. Click the boxes to track your progress!

Step 1 Essentials & Documents

Valid Visa / 144h Visa-Free Plan Ensure your visa dates cover your entire stay. For 144h transit, print your connecting flight tickets. Passport Validity Must have at least 6 months validity remaining beyond your exit date. Travel Insurance Policy Print a hard copy or save a PDF on your phone.

Step 2 Digital Preparation

Setup Alipay & WeChat Pay Link your credit card and verify your identity before flying. Install eSIM or VPN Crucial for accessing Google, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Do not wait until you land. Download Offline Maps (Metroman / Amap) Internet can be spotty. Offline maps save lives. Power Adapter (Type A, C, or I) China uses Type A (two flat pins) mostly. Voltage is 220V. Check your hairdryer!

Step 3 Packing Smart

Power Bank (Portable Charger) Must be clearly labeled with capacity. Max 20,000mAh (100Wh) allowed on planes.

⚠️ Strict Rule: Power banks with worn-off labels (where capacity is unreadable) will be confiscated at Chinese airport security.

Toilet Paper / Tissues Pro Tip: Public restrooms (outside of hotels/malls) often do not provide paper. Bring a pack! Deodorant & Personal Meds Western-brand deodorant is hard to find. Bring stomach meds (Imodium) just in case. Comfortable Walking Shoes You will walk A LOT. Leave the high heels at home. Hand Sanitizer Soap is not always available in public restrooms.

Step 4 Tech Safety (Crucial!)

Solve the "2FA" Problem ⚠️ Most Important: If you swap your SIM card, you won't receive SMS verification codes from your home bank/email. Switch your 2FA to an App (like Google Authenticator) or enable roaming for texts. Download Offline Translation Packs In Google Translate app, download "Chinese (Simplified)" for offline use. VPNs sometimes disconnect, and you need a backup. Screenshot Everything Save hotel names (in Chinese), confirmation numbers, and addresses as Photos. Don't rely on opening emails upon arrival.

Step 5 Money & Savings

Bring "Crisp" Cash If you plan to exchange USD/EUR/GBP at Chinese banks, bills must be pristine. No tears, no ink marks, no heavy folds. Old bills are often refused. Student ID (If applicable) Many Chinese attractions (Forbidden City, National Parks) offer 50% OFF for students. Your home university ID usually works! Inform Your Bank Tell your credit card company you are traveling to China so they don't block your transactions for "suspicious activity".