Quick Answer
Using electronic devices in public in China is very safe.
People use phones openly everywhere—on the street, on the metro, late at night.
You do not need to hide your phone, camera, or laptop.
The Core Reality (This Feels Different From Many Countries)
In Chinese cities, you will constantly see:
- People walking while looking at phones
- Phones on café tables
- Laptops used in public spaces
- Expensive devices handled casually
This behavior exists because theft risk is low.
Phones: Completely Normal in Public
You can safely:
- Use your phone on the street
- Hold your phone while walking
- Use navigation openly
- Pay with your phone in crowds
Phone snatching is extremely rare.
Cameras and Photography Gear
Using cameras in public is generally:
- Accepted
- Unremarkable
- Safe
You will see locals:
- Taking photos everywhere
- Using phones and cameras freely
- Filming daily life
You do not need to conceal your camera.
Laptops and Tablets
In cities:
- People work on laptops in cafés
- Tablets are used on trains
- Devices are placed openly on tables
Just use basic awareness, as you would anywhere.
What You Actually Should Pay Attention To
Practical risks, not crime:
- Forgetting devices behind
- Battery running out
- Losing items during transfers
- Misplacing chargers or cables
Most “loss” is accidental, not theft.
What You Do NOT Need to Worry About
- Pickpocketing while using your phone
- Someone grabbing your device
- Being targeted for having electronics
- Using devices at night
These fears do not match reality.
Common Mistakes First-Time Visitors Make
- Holding devices tensely
- Avoiding phone use in public
- Constantly checking pockets
- Over-securing devices unnecessarily
This creates stress without benefit.
Sensible Habits (Enough, Not Excessive)
Use basic habits:
- Keep devices in your bag when not in use
- Do not leave devices unattended for long
- Be mindful in very crowded spaces
- Keep backups of important data
No special measures are required.
Reality Check
Many visitors say:
“I felt safer using my phone here than at home.”
This is a common experience.
What Locals Do Instead
- Use phones everywhere
- Place devices casually
- Focus on convenience, not security
- Trust public spaces
You can follow this lead.
Checklist
- Use phone normally in public.
- Keep devices charged.
- Avoid forgetting items behind.
- Back up important data.
- Stay relaxed.