Planning
15 articles in this topic.
Best Time to Visit China by Region (and How to Dodge the Crowds)
China spans every climate, so the best time to visit depends on where you go. A region-by-region guide, season-by-season route ideas, and the domestic-holiday dates to avoid.
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Get a Feel for China Before You Go: Films, Shows, Games & Books
The best films, documentaries, a video game and books to soak up Chinese culture, food and history before your trip β from A Bite of China to Black Myth: Wukong.
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How Much Does a China Trip Cost? Real Prices & Daily Budgets
A clear breakdown of what a China trip actually costs β daily budgets for every style, real prices for meals, transport, hotels and attractions, and how to save.
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Which Airlines Fly to China? A Guide to Your Options
The major airlines flying to China from North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia β plus how to find the best fare.
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What to Pack for China: A Minimalist Practical Checklist
A no-nonsense packing checklist for a trip to China, season by season.
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Who Runs China Travel? An Insiderβs Guide to the Players
A behind-the-scenes look at the companies that power Chinese tourism β the OTAs, hotel groups, airlines and super-apps β and what it means for your trip.
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Your Complete China Trip Roadmap: From Planning to Departure
A step-by-step summary of a China trip β every stage from planning and visas through to departure and tax refunds, with links to the detailed guides.
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Must-Have Apps for Travelling in China
The essential apps for maps, translation, taxis, and payments in China.
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Roaming vs eSIM vs Local SIM in China: Which to Choose
The three ways to get online in China compared β international roaming, a travel eSIM, or a local SIM card β including which ones bypass the Great Firewall.
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Self-Guided vs Package Tour in China: Which to Pick?
An honest comparison of travelling China independently versus on an organised tour β cost, freedom, language, and who each suits.
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Do You Need Travel Insurance for China?
Whether travel insurance is worth it for China, and what to look for in a policy.
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Best eSIM for China in 2026: Stay Connected Instantly
An eSIM gets you online the moment you land β and some even bypass the Great Firewall. Here are the best options.
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China Visa Requirements by Nationality (2026 Guide)
Who needs a visa for China, who qualifies for visa-free entry, and how to apply without the stress.
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Best VPN for China in 2026: What Actually Works
The VPNs that reliably get past the Great Firewall, plus how to set one up before you arrive.
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How Foreigners Pay in China: Alipay & WeChat Pay Setup
China is nearly cashless. Here is how to set up Alipay and WeChat Pay with a foreign card before you go.