In China, your phone can become your wallet, map, ticket folder and easiest way to reach local hosts. These five apps cover most first-trip needs.
1. Alipay — everyday payments
Switch to English, register with the number you will keep and link an eligible international card. Complete any requested verification and find the Transport section. Bring a second card and some cash because bank approval and limits can vary.
2. WeChat — communication and backup payments
Add your guide or host and enable notifications. WeChat is widely used for messages, contact QR codes and mini-programs; Weixin Pay can be a useful second payment option if your card is supported.
3. AMap Global — navigation
Save your hotel, airports, stations and meeting points. Check each pin against the Chinese address: an English transliteration can return the wrong place.
4. 12306 — official train tickets
12306 is China Railway's official booking platform. Register with the passport you will travel with and enter every name and number exactly as printed. Save confirmations offline and keep the same physical passport ready for station checks. If Voyage East has arranged your rail travel, check what is included before buying another ticket.
5. Google Translate — prepared for offline use
Download English and Simplified Chinese before arrival, then test them without a connection. Save essential phrases, dietary requirements and your hotel address. Ask a person to confirm medical or safety-critical translations.
A final ten-minute test
Use airplane mode: can you still open your hotel address, bookings, insurance and a translated sentence? Reconnect and confirm that your bank and payment apps can send the codes you need.
Sources & checking details
App access and features can change. Check the providers’ current guidance before you travel.
