Passport: Must have at least 6 months of validity remaining Visa: if your passport doesn’t qualify for visa-free entry Hotel confirmation: Printed copies (helpful to show taxi drivers the Chinese address). Driver License: Optional. (Note: You need a temporary Chinese license for driving)
Software / Service
VPN (not needed if you turn on mobile international roaming) eSIM card Wechat & Alipay Amap or Apple Map Trip.com Didi (Optional, download the version for China, not the international version)
Equipments
ATM card Travel Adaptor, Charger and cables Mobile, laptop, camera, etc Power bank (Optional, power banks without CCC verification will be confiscated by domestic airport security. Alternatively, buy a cheap, CCC-verified one once you arrive.)
Health
Prescription Medicine: Bring what you need in clearly labeled bottles. Tooth paste and tooth brush Sunblock and sunglass
Home Travel notice to your bank. Turn on mobile international roaming. Request mail hold if necessary Pay off bills (in case you forget while away) Secure the house: Disconnect heating/appliances, lock windows/doors Pet/Plant Care: Confirm your sitter is ready.
No printed materials, books, or media that are politically sensitive or China government does not want to see Zero tolerance for any recreational drugs: drug, LSD, weed, mushroom, etc. No weapons. No live products, animals, insects, plants or seeds. No cheese, yogurt, mayo or anything made by milk or egg No products made by skin, teeth, furs from endangered animals No soil (dirt on your shoes is fine) Too much cash, too much gold, too many cigarettes, too many wines, too much electronics, too many bags, cultural relics or anything you feel is too much for travellers.
Save luggage space! The following items are incredibly cheap, high-quality, and easy to buy at any convenience store or mall upon arrival.
Travel adaptor, charger, cables, CCC power-bank Disposable underwear and socks Shampoo and body wash Toothpaste, toothbrush, dental floss Towel, tampon, napkins Umbrella, hiking pole
China Travel Master