Your private China journey

— days until departure

Everything to sort before you fly. Tick it off and your only job on arrival is to enjoy China. Questions any time — message your planner.

01 Documents & visas

  • Passport valid 6+ months beyond your return date, with 2+ blank pages.
  • China visa (L tourist) — apply 4–6 weeks ahead at your nearest Chinese visa centre. Or confirm your 240-hour visa-free transit eligibility if you qualify.
  • Travel insurance with medical + evacuation cover. Print it and save a digital copy.
  • Printed + phone copies of passport, visa, insurance and your ChinaTourly itinerary.

02 Apps & accounts to set up before you fly

  • Alipay or WeChat Pay — link an international card and verify at home. Cash and foreign cards are rarely accepted day-to-day.
  • eSIM or roaming arranged in advance — and a reliable VPN installed before arrival if you need Google / WhatsApp / Instagram.
  • Offline maps + your guide's WeChat contact (we send this before departure).

03 What to wear · your season

Pack in layers and a light waterproof — China spans many climates. Once your dates are set we'll tailor this to your exact route and season.

04 What to bring

  • Universal power adapter (China is 220V, plug types A / I).
  • Prescription medication in original packaging, with a doctor's note.
  • A small daypack, refillable water bottle and comfortable broken-in shoes.
  • A power bank for long sightseeing days.

05 What not to bring

  • Drones — entry and flying need permits; leave them home unless we've arranged it.
  • Large quantities of cash — declare amounts over USD 5,000 equivalent.
  • Restricted medications (certain sleep aids / strong painkillers) — check the rules first.
  • Satellite phones and walkie-talkies are restricted.

Anything unclear?

Your China-based planner answers within 24 hours — visas, timing, access, or a last-minute change.

Message your planner