Joanna James
Planning a trip to China? While you may already be thinking about what to pack, don't forget to prepare your smartphone as well with the right apps. Navigating daily life in China can be much smoother with a few essential downloads.
WeChat is the app you cannot afford to miss. In China, it’s much more than just a messaging platform. WeChat is used for everything—sending messages, making payments, hailing taxis, and even booking hotel rooms. It’s how the locals communicate, and many tourist services rely on it too. It’s also the easiest way to pay for things when you’re out and about since cashless transactions are the norm here. In China, tourist attractions can also be easily visited with the help of the app; you can look forward to getting recommendations of places to explore and even book tickets directly through the app, ensuring you never miss a landmark.
Uber might not be available in China, but no worries—DiDi Chuxing has you covered. This ride-hailing app is the go-to for locals and visitors alike. From taxis to private cars, DiDi offers plenty of options for getting around China’s big cities. Bonus: the app supports English, which is a lifesaver if your Mandarin isn’t quite fluent yet. Whether you're rushing to catch a train or heading out for dinner, this app ensures you’ll get there without any haggling.
Pro tip: Link your WeChat or Alipay account to pay seamlessly.
Language can be one of the trickiest aspects of travelling in China, and that's where Pleco comes in handy. This app is an offline Chinese-English dictionary that helps with translating menus, signs, and even conversations. It’s designed to be user-friendly and, best of all, it works without needing an internet connection. Pleco also has a handwriting input feature, which is super useful when you come across Chinese characters you can’t type. Whether you're bargaining at a local market or reading museum signs, Pleco makes it all a bit easier.
Alipay is another must-have app for making cashless payments in China. Along with WeChat Pay, Alipay is accepted everywhere—from luxury hotels to small street vendors. If you’re travelling with a tour company like Mackinnons Travels, having Alipay will make transactions smoother, as it’s integrated into most service platforms. You can even use it to book train tickets, pay for meals, and shop in stores. Be sure to set up your account before you arrive in China to avoid any last-minute scrambling.
Google Maps isn’t fully functional in China due to the Great Firewall, so for accurate navigation, you’ll need Baidu Maps. Though primarily in Chinese, it’s still an invaluable tool for finding directions, public transport routes, and exploring off-the-beaten-path spots. Whether you’re strolling through Beijing’s famous hutongs or exploring less-touristy destinations, Baidu Maps can help you figure out the quickest route. It’s also incredibly detailed, meaning you won’t miss out on hidden gems or detours while navigating China’s bustling cities.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
