Apps to Install for Your Trip to China:

I just traveled to China for the first time a few weeks ago, and was initially a bit confused due to the way everything in China is completely different from what I’m used to.

China is a pioneer in cashless transactions, so right off the bat, you need to get into your mind that you won’t be using physical money. The first thing to do is install Alipay on your phone, and do it before you get there, because you will need to go through a verification process that includes uploading identification documents like your passport. Make sure to have different credit or debit cards linked to the account to minimize issues.

Ideally, you want to have a phone that uses an eSIM, and install Airalo, because this service allows you to use your mobile phone normally, since the mobile data is routed through Singapore. You’ll be able to use all the apps you normally use without a VPN on your mobile phone. By the way, you can use the coupon code FELIX0452 for a €3 discount on your first purchase with them.

Next, you want to have WeChat installed, though this one is a bit tricky, and you might have to wait until you’re in China to properly activate it, since often WeChat wants you to authenticate or verify your account through their system in specific ways that make the whole process easier once you’re in China.

Install the DiDi app, which is the Chinese version of Grab or Uber. This is built into the Alipay app, though, but you can install it for further options. Also, make sure to have Apple Maps and AMap installed. Apple Maps is widely used, unlike Google Maps, in China, and AMap is very much like their version of Google Maps.

Make sure to have an app called MetroMan on your phone, too, which gives you a really good overview of the Chinese metro systems. When it comes to translation, Apple Translate is good enough and gets the job done. Otherwise, Baidu Translate could work for you, too.

Finally, when it comes to VPNs, I like Mullvad. It works in China, and it’s affordable while being private.