Essential China Travel Tips for First-Time Travellers in 2026
- Jan 24
- 4 min read
China is one of the most fascinating countries in Asia to explore, but it is also one of the easiest places to feel overwhelmed if you arrive unprepared. For travellers and language learners in the UK, a little planning goes a long way in turning culture shock into cultural discovery.
1. Visa requirements, including flight transit
Unlike many destinations in East Asia, China does not offer visa free entry to most visitors, including those travelling from the UK. In most cases, you must apply for a visa in advance that matches the purpose of your trip, whether that is tourism, business, or study. This involves submitting your passport, a completed application form, photographs, and proof of flights and accommodation, so it is not something to leave until the last minute.
What many travellers do not realise is that visa rules also apply to airport transit, and only certain Chinese cities participate in visa free transit schemes. Cities that currently offer 144 hour visa free transit include Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and several others. These schemes allow eligible passport holders to stay for up to six days, but only within the approved city or region, not nationwide. In addition, many other airports across China offer a 24 hour visa free transit, which applies to most nationalities but does not allow unrestricted travel beyond the immediate transit area.
To qualify, travellers must be flying from one country or region into China and then onwards to a different country or region, for example the UK to Shanghai to Japan. Return journeys such as the UK to Beijing to the UK do not qualify. You must also hold a confirmed onward ticket with a fixed departure date and comply strictly with local movement restrictions. Airlines are responsible for checking eligibility, so if your route does not meet the rules exactly, you may be refused boarding before departure. For the latest and most accurate details, travellers should consult the National Immigration Administration.
2. Power sockets and charging your device
China uses a mixture of socket types, which can catch travellers off guard. The most common are Type A, Type C, and Type I plugs, and while many hotels accept more than one type, this is not guaranteed, especially in smaller cities or budget accommodation. The voltage is 220V, which suits most modern chargers, but you still need the correct adapter.
This matters because your phone quickly becomes your lifeline in China. It serves as your map, translator, payment method, and ticket wallet, so keeping it charged is essential. A universal travel adapter is the safest option, and for longer stays, a small extension lead or power strip can be helpful due to limited sockets in hotel rooms.
3. Currency and why two e-wallets are essential
China is now one of the most cashless societies in the world. In many places, people pay for almost everything using their phones, from taxis and cafés to supermarkets and street food stalls. Cash is still technically accepted, but it can be inconvenient, and foreign bank cards are often not supported for everyday purchases. Relying only on cash or a UK debit card can therefore make daily life surprisingly difficult.
The two most important e-wallets to set up before you travel are Alipay and WeChat Pay. Alipay is widely used across China for shopping, transport, and online payments. WeChat Pay is built into WeChat, which is also China’s main messaging and social media app, making it a central part of everyday life. Both now allow foreign visitors to link international cards and pay in shops and restaurants. Having both apps gives you flexibility, as some businesses only accept one or the other.
4. Language barriers and why a little Mandarin helps
Mandarin Chinese is the main language across mainland China, but English is not widely spoken outside major hotels and tourist areas. In local restaurants, small shops, and on public transport, you are far more likely to meet people who only speak Chinese. This can feel daunting at first, but it is also one of the most rewarding parts of travelling in China.
Learning a few basic phrases before you go makes a significant difference.
Being able to ask for a price, order food, or say thank you helps you avoid misunderstandings and build genuine rapport with locals. Spending some time learning the basics before you go can have a surprisingly big impact.
5. Essential apps and a VPN
Your smartphone is just as important as your passport in China, so preparing it properly is essential. Many Western apps and websites, including Google, WhatsApp, and some email services, do not work reliably. Local alternatives such as Baidu Maps or Gaode Maps are far more accurate for navigation, while DiDi Chuxing is the main ride hailing app. A translation app with offline support is also invaluable when reading menus or signs.
A reliable VPN is just as important and must be installed before you travel. A VPN allows you to access blocked services, including those you may need for work, study, or keeping in touch with family. Once you are in China, it can be difficult to download or activate one, so this is something you should sort out in advance, such as ExpressVPN and NordVPN.
China rewards travellers who prepare carefully. With the right visa, the right technology, and a few language skills, your journey becomes smoother and far more enjoyable. For Mandarin learners at LingoClass, it is also a chance to turn language study into real life experience.
