First trip setup
First China Trip Setup
Use this order before you fly: confirm entry rules, choose a realistic route, prepare apps and payment, and keep arrival backups ready.
Follow this setup order
- 1 Start When planning begins Get the first-trip overview
See the major systems first so you do not prepare scattered details in the wrong order.
- 2 Systems Before departure Prepare apps, internet, and payment
Set up the phone stack that handles maps, translation, messaging, transport, and daily spending.
- 3 Landing Final check Plan the first 72 hours
Know how you will get online, reach the hotel, test payment, eat, and get back safely.
Use these when decisions get specific
Entry and documents
- Visa Rule check Visa-free explained
Understand whether a visa-free rule actually fits your exact trip.
- Docs Offline copies Entry documents
Save the passport, visa or eligibility basis, hotel address, and onward proof that matter.
- Drone Before packing Bringing drones to China
Confirm customs, battery, registration, and flying restrictions before adding a drone.
Phone, payment, and arrival systems
- Internet Before the flight Internet restrictions overview
Prepare for blocked or unstable services instead of discovering it after landing.
- Pay Before first purchase How to pay in China
Build a payment setup with one main method and two backups.
- Hotel Before arrival Hotel check-in
Keep passport, booking name, payment, and Chinese hotel details ready.