Install these before you fly
| App | What it’s for | Setup before you fly |
|---|---|---|
| Alipay | Paying (QR) | Register + add your card |
| Paying, messaging | Register + add your card | |
| DiDi | Taxis / ride-hailing | Install; add a payment method |
| Trip.com | Trains, flights, hotels | Install; save your passport details |
| Amap / Baidu Maps | Maps (Google Maps is unreliable) | Install; download the city offline |
| Google Translate / Pleco | Translation | Download the offline Chinese pack |
| 12306 | Official train tickets (Chinese) | Optional; Trip.com is easier for visitors |
How each one helps
- Alipay / WeChat — pay at almost any shop, restaurant, taxi or machine by scanning a QR code.
- DiDi — the Chinese ride-hailing app; useful when you don’t speak Chinese (the app handles the address).
- Trip.com — English booking for trains and flights; e-tickets go to your phone.
- Amap (高德) / Baidu Maps — accurate local maps and public-transport directions.
- Translation — offline Chinese packs make menus and signs manageable.
Setup checklist
- Register Alipay and WeChat with your phone number.
- Add Visa / Mastercard / Amex / JCB to both.
- Install DiDi and add a payment method.
- Install Trip.com and save your passport details.
- Install a map app and download your first city offline.
- Download the offline Chinese translation pack.
- Screenshot your hotel address in Chinese.
Practical tips
- Some apps need a phone number to log in — use the number that will work in China (your roaming number or a local SIM).
- Test each app before you leave home; fix login problems on a familiar network.
- WeChat is also how many locals will want to contact you — set up your profile.
- Keep offline maps for the cities on your route.
Verify before you travel
- Confirm the apps are available in your app store (some are region-restricted).
- Check whether your eSIM/roaming keeps these apps working.
- Re-check any app that requires a Chinese phone number for your itinerary.