Essential Apps for Traveling in China
chinajoy.org is an independent travel and lifestyle guide. We are not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the ChinaJoy Digital Entertainment Expo or Howell International Trade Fair Ltd.
Direct answer: Download WeChat, Alipay, a VPN, offline maps, and a camera translation pack before you fly. Apps are harder to install and verify after you land, even if your eSIM later opens Google services.
Core stack
| Need | App category | 2026 note |
|---|---|---|
| Messaging locals / hotels | Still non-optional for many hosts | |
| Payments | Alipay + WeChat Pay | Direct foreign-card linking |
| Navigation | Offline-capable maps | Download city packs |
| Translation | Camera translation | Menu photos save dinners |
| Access | VPN client | Especially for hotel Wi‑Fi |
| Bookings | Trip.com / airline apps | Save offline boarding passes |
Pre-flight download checklist
- Alipay (main app, not AlipayHK) — setup guide
- WeChat Pay wallet — setup guide
- VPN client (logged in)
- Translation offline language pack
- Offline maps for your cities
- Airline + hotel vouchers in Photos / Files
- Banking authenticator apps
Connectivity hub: Staying connected in China. Payments hub: How to pay in China.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need Baidu Maps if I have Google Maps?
Useful as backup. With a roaming eSIM, Google Maps may work on cellular, but offline packs still reduce risk.
Is WeChat only for payments?
No — it is also how hotels, drivers, and friends communicate.
Sources & further reading
Policies and product details change. Confirm fee, coverage, and eligibility screens inside the official app or provider page before you buy.