Your phone setup matters more in China than in many destinations. Payments, taxis, train tickets, translation and maps all work better when the right apps are installed and logged in before arrival.
The Core Stack
- Alipay: everyday payments and many transport QR codes.
- WeChat: payments, messaging and mini programs.
- Didi: ride-hailing with destination entered in-app.
- Trip.com: hotels, trains and flights in English.
- Amap: more accurate local navigation than Google Maps in China.
- Google Translate or Pleco: offline translation and camera translation.
- VPN: install two before arrival.
- AQI app: useful for Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu and winter travel.
Install Before You Fly
Do not wait until landing to install payments, VPNs or translation tools. Some setup pages may be blocked, SMS verification may be awkward, and airport Wi-Fi is the worst place to debug your trip.