Must have apps for China trip!
⬇️ Save this post so you'll know what apps are needed for your next China trip!
You only need 4 apps for your China trip:
1. WeChat - for texting, payments, ordering food and didi
2. Amaps - for navigation
3. Xiaohongshu - for recommendations and reviews
4. Dianping - for reviews and easy access to mall directories
Alipay is also an alternative for payment. It does everything WeChat can (and more, like booking train tickets and hotels) with the exception of the messaging part.
If you don't have von, just get a esim. There are lots of cheap options on Shopee!
When traveling in China, especially for first-timers, having the right apps can transform your experience. Aside from the four core apps mentioned—WeChat, Amap, Xiaohongshu, and Dianping—it's important to understand some app features that truly simplify your stay. WeChat is ubiquitous in China, serving as the main platform for communication, payments, and ride-hailing through its mini programs, like Didi. For those without a local phone number, using Didi within WeChat still works, making transport hassle-free. Additionally, WeChat Pay can be used almost everywhere—from street vendors to high-end malls. Amap stands out as a highly accurate map app, preferred over Google Maps in China. Its English interface with built-in translation tools helps you navigate easily even if you don't read Chinese. This is invaluable when exploring cities or rural areas with limited English signage. Xiaohongshu, also known as Rednote, is a treasure trove of user-generated recommendations and reviews. Whether you’re looking for trending restaurants, shopping tips, or local experiences, Xiaohongshu can guide your choices through photos, videos, and detailed posts. Dianping is like China's version of Yelp but offers even more comprehensive reviews and mall directories. Its only downside is the lack of an English interface, but with a little patience or using translation features on your phone, it helps find the best eateries and shops. For payments beyond WeChat, Alipay is a fantastic alternative. While it doesn’t offer messaging, it includes mini programs for booking train tickets, hotels, and various services. Before your trip, consider purchasing an esim on platforms like Shopee, which provides affordable data plans for China without the need for a physical SIM card. Using these apps together means you’ll have communication, transport, navigation, payment, and local insight all at your fingertips. My personal experience was smoother and more enjoyable by relying on these essentials, making travel in China far less stressful and more fun.
