Before you fly
Everything that decides whether your first day in China is easy.
Visa-free check30-day and 240-hour rules for your passport and entry port.Apps you need for ChinaSix apps cover paying, getting around and booking. Set them up at home, where fixing a problem is easy.How to pay in ChinaAlmost everyone pays by phone. Here is how to do it with your own card, and what to carry as a backup.Staying online in ChinaGoogle, WhatsApp and Instagram are blocked in mainland China. Here is how most visitors stay connected.Which apps do I need for China?Answer five questions and get your personal list of apps to install before you fly, with set-up guides.What to book before you goSights that sell out, how far ahead and when tickets are released.Your countdown to ChinaWhat to do 2–4 weeks, 7 days, 3 days and 1 day before you fly.