Back to list

Essential Mobile Apps for China Travel (Payment, Maps, VPN & More)

January 5, 2025
Travel Apps Mobile Payment China Travel Navigation VPN
Essential Mobile Apps for China Travel (Payment, Maps, VPN & More)

China’s digital landscape is unique, and mobile apps play a huge role in daily life. Having the right apps is essential for navigating the country smoothly. Here are the must-haves for any traveler to China:

1. Alipay / WeChat Pay: Your Digital Wallet

  • Why: These are the dominant mobile payment methods. Used everywhere from restaurants and shops to taxis and street vendors.
  • Purpose: Payments, transportation fares, various services.
  • Setup: Linking foreign credit cards is possible but set up before arriving if possible. Follow in-app guides for foreigners.

Alipay and WeChat Pay

2. Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行): Ride-Hailing

  • Why: China’s equivalent of Uber/Lyft. Easiest way to get taxis or private cars, especially without speaking Mandarin.
  • Purpose: Book taxis, private cars; includes map navigation for drivers.
  • Notes: Needs internet. English interface available, but translation app helpful for driver communication.

Didi Chuxing App

3. Baidu Maps / Gaode Maps (AMaps): Navigation

  • Why: Google Maps is unreliable. Baidu Maps (百度地图) and Gaode Maps (高德地图) are the most accurate for directions, traffic, and public transport.
  • Purpose: Walking/cycling/driving/public transport directions, local search (restaurants, attractions).
  • Notes: Primarily in Chinese, but usable with practice or translation apps. Download offline maps for cities you’ll visit.

Baidu and Gaode Maps

4. Pleco: English-Chinese Dictionary

  • Why: Essential for communication and understanding signs when English isn’t spoken.
  • Purpose: Offline dictionary, character lookup via camera, audio pronunciation.
  • Notes: Download necessary dictionaries before your trip for offline use.

5. VPN (Virtual Private Network): Unrestricted Internet

  • Why: Bypasses China’s internet censorship (“Great Firewall”) to access blocked sites/apps like Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, etc.
  • Purpose: Access global internet, secure your connection (especially on public WiFi).
  • Notes: Crucial: Subscribe, install, and test a reputable VPN known to work in China before you arrive. Research providers like ExpressVPN, Astrill VPN, etc. (reliability can change).

General Tips for App Usage

  • Download in Advance: Get apps installed and set up (especially VPN, payments) before traveling.
  • Connectivity: Ensure reliable internet via local SIM, eSIM, or Pocket WiFi.
  • Battery: Carry a portable charger (power bank).

Equipping yourself with these apps will significantly enhance your travel experience in China.