Collect deposits and invoices, finish packages and returns, save payment records, check transport to the airport, keep passport ready, and avoid last-day shopping that needs delivery or refund support.
Payment decision guide
Use this table to turn payment advice into a practical setup before the first taxi, meal or hotel deposit.
Safer setup
- Prepare one primary QR wallet.
- Keep a card, ATM or cash fallback.
- Test a small purchase before relying on it.
Risky setup
- Arrive with only one card.
- Assume every shop accepts foreign cards.
- Wait until a busy counter to test payments.
Place this page inside the whole China plan.
Use the article to decide what matters before departure, what to test on arrival and what to keep as a backup.
Before arrival
Prepare the part that blocks everything else.
Entry, phone access, hotel address and first payment test should be ready before the first busy moment.
On the ground
Keep one simple backup route.
Save Chinese addresses, screenshots and support contacts so a payment, app or transport issue does not stop the day.
QR payments and backups
Alipay, WeChat Pay, cards, cash and what to try before the first meal.
Entry
Entry rules before booking
Transport
Rail and city transfers
Apps
Phone, maps and translation
Read the quick answer
Start with the summary so you know the practical recommendation before the details.
Continue planning
Read next in this series
Check the exceptions
Rules and local practice can vary by city, passport, app account, bank or travel date.
Build a backup
Use the page to decide what to prepare, what to test, and what to do if the first plan fails.
Close open loops
Close open loops is a practical control point for this topic. Check it early so it does not become a problem under pressure.
Keep records
Keep records is a practical control point for this topic. Check it early so it does not become a problem under pressure.
Avoid last-day risk
Avoid last-day risk is a practical control point for this topic. Check it early so it does not become a problem under pressure.
Hotel and housing
Confirm checkout time, deposit return, invoice needs, and luggage storage. If staying in an apartment, handle keys, utilities, and inspection early.
Packages and returns
Do not order items close to departure unless you can handle late delivery, returns, or failed pickup. Clear package lockers and return borrowed items before the final day.
Payments and records
Save receipts, fapiao, payment screenshots, refund confirmations, and bank records needed for work, insurance, or reimbursement.
Phone and accounts
Review local SIM, subscriptions, delivery accounts, transport cards, and any apps tied to local phone numbers. Do not cancel the number before receiving final verification codes.
Airport day
Leave early, especially with international flights, tax refund procedures, luggage, or long airport transfers. Keep passport, visa or entry record, and onward ticket accessible.
Practical checklist
- Collect hotel deposit
- Save invoices and receipts
- Finish packages and returns
- Review SIM and subscriptions
- Leave early for airport
Common mistakes
- Ordering delivery before departure
- Forgetting deposit return
- Canceling phone number too early
- Leaving invoices until checkout rush
- Underestimating airport transfer time
When to ask for help
Ask hotel staff, station staff, venue security, your host, school, employer, insurer, or a trusted local contact before the situation becomes urgent. Many China travel problems are easier when someone can read the Chinese address, call the right counter, or explain the local process.
Related guides
Build the rest of your China plan
Departure Checklist Before Leaving China is one part of the trip. Pair it with entry checks, payment backups, arrival steps and destination planning before you travel.