Before you fly: your China checklist
Six quick checks before you land in China, in order. Tick them off as you go: texts, payments, eSIM, power banks, the border and the train.
Last verified 16 October 2026. Checked against: Our own experience, and the Civil Aviation Administration of China notice of 26 June 2025 (power banks).
Keep your home SIM active for texts
1Alipay and WeChat text you a code, and an eSIM is data only. Keep your home number able to receive texts abroad.
- Before you fly
- Texts
Details
Both Alipay and WeChat send verification codes by text, and an eSIM is data only. Keep your home SIM active and check your plan lets you receive texts abroad.
Set up Alipay and WeChat Pay at home
2On wifi, with your home number. Everyone who pays needs their own account, and set up at least two people.
- Home wifi
- Each adult
- Alipay and WeChat Pay guide
Details
Do it at home, on wifi, using your home number. Each adult in the group needs their own account and passport details. Set up at least two people in a group so one failed payment does not stall the table.
Install and test your eSIM
3Before you fly, on wifi. Check your phone supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked.
- Home wifi
- eSIM
- eSIM guide
Details
Install your eSIM before you fly, on wifi. Check your phone supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked.
Check your power bank
4On domestic flights in China, power banks without a clear 3C mark are not allowed. Check the label before you pack.
- Airport
- Check the label
Details
On domestic flights within China, power banks with no 3C mark, an unclear 3C mark, or from a recalled model or batch are not allowed, and airport security can confiscate them. Check the label before you pack. Source: the Civil Aviation Administration of China notice of 26 June 2025, in force from 28 June 2025: https://www.caac.gov.cn/XWZX/MHYW/202506/t20250626_227805.html
Arrival card and border plan
5Screenshot the arrival card QR in advance, and pick a crossing for your arrival time and luggage.
- Screenshot
- Border
- Border guide
Details
Screenshot the arrival card QR in advance. Pick a crossing based on the time you will arrive and your luggage.
Book the train
6Book once you know your route and date.
- Book early
- High-speed rail guide
Details
Book the train once you know your route and date.
Who needs what
| Who | Needs |
|---|---|
| Each adult who will pay | Own Alipay and WeChat Pay account, own passport details, own home number for SMS |
| Solo traveller | All of the above, one person |
| Family with children | Child tickets for the high-speed train, and a plan for who holds the payment devices |
| Senior traveller | A printed copy of this checklist, an eSIM set up with help, and a cash reserve |
Sources
Official reports
- Civil Aviation Administration of China: notice on power banks (no 3C mark, unclear mark, recalled models) on domestic flights26 June 2025Step 4. Applies to domestic flights only.
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