Most problems travellers hit in China are completely avoidable — they come from assuming things work the way they do back home. Here are the most common mistakes, and how to sidestep them.

Planning mistakes

Waiting until you arrive to set up a VPN. The single biggest one. Once you land, you often can’t download a VPN at all because the app stores are blocked. Install it at home. (VPN guide)

Assuming you can use Google Maps. Google services are blocked and Google Maps is inaccurate in China anyway. Use Apple Maps or Amap instead.

Booking a hotel that can’t accept foreigners. Not every hotel is licensed to register foreign guests. Book ones that explicitly accept international travellers. (hotel guide)

Money & tech mistakes

Relying on cash or your home credit card. Most places don’t take foreign cards, and cash is increasingly awkward. Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay before you go. (payments guide)

Not telling your bank you’re travelling. Linking a foreign card to a Chinese app can trigger a fraud freeze. A quick heads-up to your bank avoids it.

Letting your phone battery die. Your phone is your map, wallet, translator, and ticket. Carry a power bank everywhere.

On-the-ground mistakes

Leaving your passport at the hotel. You need it to board trains, enter some attractions, and check in. Carry it (or keep a clear photo as backup).

Underestimating distances and crowds. China is huge and its sights are busy. Book major attraction tickets online in advance and build in buffer time, especially during the local holiday seasons.

Only eating at tourist restaurants. The best, cheapest food is where the locals are. Use translation apps to order and be adventurous. Order what other customers are eating is the safest option.

Flushing the toilet paper It will simply clog the toilet, throw the toilet paper in the bin after use.

Cultural missteps

Tipping everywhere. It’s not customary and can create confusion. Simply skip it.

Being loud about sensitive topics. Keep political debate for home; it can make locals uncomfortable.

Expecting English everywhere. Outside big hotels and airports, English is very limited. A translation app is your best friend — and a smile bridges the rest. People are usually very helpful and full of hospitality.

Avoid these and you’ll travel like someone on their third trip, not their first.