Must-Read Before Departure! Top 5 Preparation Checklist for First-Time Visitors to Beijing

This checklist is tailored just for you, helping you plan your Beijing trip with clarity! Jump straight to the essentials:

1. Documents & Finances

Passport & Visa: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months and obtain a tourist visa (L visa) in advance.

Payment Methods:

Mobile Payments: Download and verify Alipay or WeChat Pay in advance. Link a bank card supporting international transactions (recommended: activate TourPass or foreign card binding).

Cash Reserve: Exchange ¥500-1000 in cash for small purchases or emergencies.

Insurance: Purchase travel insurance covering China, ensuring medical and accident coverage.

2. Essential Items

Electronic Devices:

Power Adapter: China uses Type A/I plugs with 220V voltage. Bring a power adapter.

Power Bank: Capacity must not exceed 100Wh for convenient charging.

VPN Tool: Download and test a reliable VPN app (e.g., Astrill, ExpressVPN) beforehand to ensure uninterrupted access to international websites.

Clothing: Pack seasonally appropriate attire—warm layers for winter, sun protection for summer.

Medications: Bring common medicines (e.g., cold remedies, digestive aids, pain relievers, allergy medication, band-aids), ensuring compliance with Chinese customs regulations.

Other Essentials: Lightweight rain gear, portable charger, portable translation tools (e.g., Baidu Translate, Youdao Translate).

3. Itinerary Planning

Booking Confirmations: Keep both electronic and printed copies of round-trip flight tickets and hotel reservations.

Attraction Reservations: Pre-book popular sites (e.g., Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square) via official websites or mini-programs.

Transportation: Download the “Beijing IC Card” or “Yitongxing” app for QR code-based subway/bus payments; familiarize yourself with subway maps beforehand.

4. Health and Safety

Health Tips: Consider purchasing travel insurance. Boil tap water before drinking; bottled water is recommended.

Safety Precautions: Safeguard passports, cash, and valuables. Avoid remote or high-crime areas. Memorize emergency numbers: Police 110, Ambulance 120.

Scam Alert: Beware of “high-priced tea scams” and “fortune-telling scams” at tourist sites; request receipts when shopping.

5. Culture and Etiquette

Basic Etiquette: Maintain quiet in public spaces, follow order, and respect local customs.

Communication: Learn basic Chinese phrases (e.g., “Hello,” “Thank you”) and download translation apps for backup.

Wishing you a pleasant trip to Beijing!