VPN: set it up at home, not at the airport
Many Western services are limited in mainland China. If you need Google, social apps, or certain work tools, choose a reputable VPN, install it before departure, and test login on hotel Wi-Fi style networks if you can.
Do not rely on a single connectivity plan. Offline maps, downloaded tickets, and hotel Chinese addresses should exist even if VPN or data fails for an hour.
Must-have apps for Western visitors
WeChat for messaging and payments, Alipay for payments, DiDi for rides, a solid maps app, a translation app, and airline/hotel apps with offline confirmations cover most tourist needs.
- WeChat — chat, Mini Programs, payments
- Alipay — backup wallet and some tourist flows
- DiDi — ride-hailing with clearer pricing than random curb taxis
- Maps + translation — daily navigation and menus
- Your banking app — only on trusted networks
SIM, eSIM, and hotel Wi-Fi
An eSIM or local SIM with data makes everything easier: maps, translation, ride-hailing, and payment QR codes. Airport and hotel Wi-Fi quality varies; do not stake your first transfer on it alone.
How a companion reduces tech stress
Even perfect apps do not remove Chinese-language edge cases. Companions help with ride pickup points, restaurant QR menus, ticket platforms, and the unexpected error message that only staff can solve quickly.
Quick answers
Should tourists get a VPN for China?
If you depend on blocked or limited Western services in mainland China, yes — install and test before travel.
What is the most important app?
WeChat is the highest priority for most visitors because it combines communication and payments.