PAYMENTS · ARTICLE 5
Your First 24 Hours in China: Payment Checklist
Prepare before landing and travel with confidence.
Your first day in China can feel exciting — but also unfamiliar.
Here is a simple payment checklist to make your arrival easier.
Before Your Trip
Download Essential Apps
Prepare:
- Alipay
- Translation apps
- Transportation apps
Set Up Mobile Payments
Before departure:
- Register your account
- Complete verification
- Connect your Visa/Mastercard
- Enable notifications
At the Airport
You may need payment for:
- Coffee
- SIM card/eSIM services
- Transportation
- Snacks
- Airport shopping
- Having your payment apps ready saves time.
During Your Trip
Remember:
- Mobile payment = daily life
- Credit card = backup
- Cash = emergency option
Our Recommendation
China is easier to travel than many first-time visitors expect.
With a few simple preparations, you can enjoy everything from street food to high-speed trains with confidence.
Payment article based on the supplied editorial brief.
Source and review
Last reviewed: 2026-08-06
A China-based planner reads every request.