Travel Guide
Pre-Departure Checklist
A well-prepared departure makes for a smooth arrival. This checklist covers what ChinaTourly recommends for every client in the 2–4 weeks before their journey begins.
Documents & Essentials
- Passport: valid 6+ months beyond return date
- China visa: confirmed and correct dates
- Travel insurance: medical evacuation cover included
- Emergency contacts list (hotel, guide, ChinaTourly)
- Printed copy of hotel addresses in Chinese characters
- Vaccination records (yellow fever if travelling from endemic region)
Technology Setup
- VPN installed and tested (mandatory — before landing in China)
- Google Translate: download Chinese simplified offline pack
- DiDi International app: registered with payment method
- WeChat: installed, linked to phone number
- Maps: Apple Maps works OK; Baidu Maps for detail
- Backup power bank: Type-A/C outlets in China; bring adaptor
Health & Wellness
- Prescription medications: bring adequate supply + doctor's letter
- Common OTC medications: Chinese pharmacies have limited Western brands
- Stomach prep: probiotics recommended for first 3–4 days
- Air quality: check AQI before packing exercise gear
- Water: never drink tap water — hotel bottled water is standard
- Altitude: if visiting Tibet/Lijiang, read acclimatisation advice
Communication Tip
Save your guide's WeChat ID, hotel names in Chinese characters, and ChinaTourly's emergency number before you land. Mobile data is available via eSIM or airport SIM — but have these offline where possible. The 30 minutes of setup before departure saves hours of confusion on arrival.
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