Survival Stack

Build your stay kit

The cards below follow the operational sequence that usually reduces stress for incoming patients and companions. Start with what must be prepared before departure, then move into what you need on the ground.

Before Departure
Foundation

Before You Fly

Use this guide to avoid missing travel basics that become expensive or inconvenient once you arrive.

  • Packing priorities for medical travel
  • Adapters, documents, and essential backups
  • Departure-day readiness checklist
Prepare to depart
Stay Connected
Critical

Internet & Essential Apps

Set up your mobile data and must-have apps before arrival so maps, ride-hailing, and messages work immediately.

  • eSIM and roaming planning
  • Which apps matter most for foreigners
  • How to reduce day-one setup friction
Set up connectivity
Pay Smoothly
Daily Use

Payment Methods in China

Understand how foreign patients can actually pay for daily life, transport, and hospital-adjacent services.

  • How Alipay and WeChat Pay fit into daily use
  • Why passport and card binding matters
  • Backup payment habits worth planning for
Prepare your payments
Move Locally
Mobility

Getting Around

Plan airport pickup, metro use, DiDi rides, and intercity transfers without relying on guesswork.

  • Airport to hotel or hospital flow
  • Metro and DiDi basics for new arrivals
  • High-speed rail use when treatment spans cities
Plan local transport

Need more help settling in? ChinaSurvival.com covers a wide range of practical topics for living and traveling in China.