Payment setup path
China Payment Setup
Use this order to prepare one main payment method, one backup wallet or card, and a small cash fallback before you need them.
Follow this setup order
- 1 Start Before arrival Understand the full setup
See the whole payment stack first so you do not over-focus on one app.
- 2 Choose Before arrival Prepare both wallets
Decide how Alipay and WeChat Pay fit together before you are standing at a counter.
- 3 Bind Before first payment Link a foreign card
Add at least one international card, then prepare a second card or route if you can.
- 4 Test After arrival Learn the QR payment flow
Know which QR code to scan, when to show your code, and how to test with a small purchase.
- 5 Backup Always keep Carry a small cash fallback
Keep enough RMB for a dead phone, a declined wallet, or an awkward arrival moment.
Use these when the situation appears
Wallet setup
- Alipay Wallet setup Alipay for foreigners
Set up Alipay as the travel-friendly wallet route.
- WeChat Wallet setup WeChat Pay for foreigners
Prepare the wallet that is embedded in everyday local life.
- Bank Decision check Do you need a Chinese bank account?
Know when visitors can avoid opening a local account.
Use it in real situations
- Metro Daily use Paying for metro and bus
Use payments for everyday city transit without overcomplicating it.
- Taxi Daily use Paying for taxi and Didi
Prepare for ride-hailing, taxis, and payment at the end of the ride.
- Bills With friends Splitting bills
Understand the practical options when paying with other people.
Troubleshooting and safety
- Failed When stuck Payment failed: what to do
Pause, confirm status, switch once, and avoid duplicate charges.
- Scams Stay safe Common payment scams
Keep the normal payment flow clear so suspicious moments stand out.
- Budget Before arrival How much money to bring
Plan cash and card backup amounts without carrying too much.
- ATM Cash backup Withdrawing cash at ATMs
Know how to get RMB from a foreign card if your backup cash runs low.
- Tip Local norms Tipping in China
Avoid overpaying or creating awkward moments in ordinary payment situations.