Before you go
Practical notes for travelling in China.
Clear, useful guidance for preparing well, arriving confidently and travelling respectfully.
Meeting your guide
Your guide will normally meet you in the arrivals hall with a China Afield welcome sign. If you cannot find each other, contact the emergency number in your final travel documents and stay near the agreed meeting point.
Passport, visa and entry
Carry a passport valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date and check the latest visa or visa-free requirements with the Chinese embassy or consulate responsible for your place of residence. Complete any required customs declaration truthfully and declare cash or valuables when required.
Customs and restricted items
Do not carry prohibited drugs, weapons, explosives, protected wildlife products or other restricted goods. Food, plants, medicines and professional equipment may require declaration or supporting documents. Check current customs rules before departure.
Respectful travel
Dress and behave respectfully at temples, mosques, monasteries and local communities. Follow photography restrictions, avoid touching religious objects, keep voices low and ask before photographing people. Local customs differ across China; your guide will help you navigate them.
Food and drinking water
China's regional cuisines vary widely. Tell us about allergies and dietary needs before travel and repeat them to your guide. Drink bottled or properly boiled water, choose busy and reputable food stalls, and wash or peel raw produce when appropriate.
Clothing and equipment
Pack breathable layers for warm weather and warm, wind-resistant layers for winter or high-altitude routes. Comfortable, non-slip walking shoes are essential. Bring sun protection, rain protection and any specialist equipment recommended for trekking, Tibet or seasonal conditions.
Money and payments
The local currency is the renminbi (RMB). Mobile payment is common, but international cards and cash are not accepted everywhere. Carry a practical mix of payment methods, exchange money only through authorised providers and notify your bank before travel. Tipping is not compulsory, though a gratuity may be offered for exceptional service.
Getting around
High-speed rail and domestic flights connect major cities; metro, taxi and ride-hailing services are widely used within cities. Keep your hotel address in Chinese, allow extra time during holidays and follow your guide's advice for remote or high-altitude areas.
Health, safety and insurance
Arrange comprehensive travel insurance covering medical care, cancellation and the activities in your itinerary. Carry prescription medicines in original packaging with supporting documentation. Emergency numbers are Police 110, Ambulance 120 and Fire 119; China's tourism service line is 12301.
Electricity
Mainland China uses 220V, 50Hz electricity. Type A, C and I sockets are common, so a universal travel adapter is useful. Check that personal appliances support 220V before plugging them in.
Internet and communication
Some international websites and services may not be available in mainland China. Arrange roaming, an eSIM or a local SIM before or after arrival, and download essential apps, maps, translation tools and offline documents in advance.
Useful apps
WeChat and Alipay are widely used for communication and payments; major map, translation, airline and rail apps can simplify travel. Set up accounts and add a suitable payment method before departure where possible.
Airport timing
As a practical guide, arrive around two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight. Allow more time during public holidays, at large airports and when checking special baggage.
Packing checklist
Keep your passport, visa documents, insurance details, itinerary, emergency contacts, medicines and valuables in your hand luggage. Also consider a reusable bottle, compact umbrella, sunscreen, tissues, sanitiser, power bank, universal adapter and copies of important documents.