Sanming Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Essential Preparations

Start planning early for a relaxed trip to Sanming.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Follow these steps for ideal readiness.

3

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Verify your passport is valid for six months beyond your return. Commence your China visa application.

Flights & Accommodation

Book international flights and your main accommodations in Sanming.

Health Consult

Consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations and travel health advice.

1

Month Before

Visa Secured

Acquire your Chinese visa and verify all details are correct.

Domestic Travel & Insurance

Purchase domestic airfare or high-speed train tickets. Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance.

Digital Setup

Download essential apps: VPN, WeChat, Alipay, Didi, Baidu Maps/Amap, and a translation app.

1

Week Before

Confirmations

Verify all flight, accommodation, train, and tour reservations.

Documents & Banking

Prepare copies of all important documents. Inform your bank of travel plans.

Packing & Tech

Pack climate-appropriate clothing. Plug in your electronics. Download offline maps and content. Consider Packing organizers.

Required Advance Bookings

Reservations

International flights into and out of China.
Your Chinese visa, acquired and validated.
Major high-speed train tickets for inter-city travel within China.
Accommodations, especially during peak seasons or for popular local guesthouses.

Pre-Trip Research Suggestions

Gather knowledge to enrich your Sanming experience and interactions.

Research Focus

Familiarize yourself with Chinese culture and etiquette.
Grasp the local climate and seasonal variations for Sanming.
Research attractions, their operating hours, and entrance fees.
Explore local cuisine, notably the renowned Shaxian snacks.

Home Preparation

Secure your home before leaving for your journey.

Mail & Pet Care

Arrange for mail to be held or collected by a trusted person.
Organize pet care, whether a sitter or boarding, well in advance.
Ensure your pets have sufficient food and water during your absence.
Provide caregivers with emergency contact information.

Emergency Contacts

Notify emergency contacts of your complete travel itinerary.
Leave contact numbers for your accommodation and any tour operators.
Share a copy of your passport and visa details for safekeeping.
Provide your flight details and expected return times.

Home Security

Secure everything windows and doors before departure.
Set timers for lights to create the appearance of occupancy.
Park your car in a secure location or ask a neighbor to move it periodically.
Remove any visible valuables from plain sight.

Wise Counsel

Create a physical folder for printouts of all your bookings and copies of documents. Keep this separate from your originals.

Arrival Checklist

These steps aid you in settling in smoothly upon reaching Sanming.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration & Customs
Clear immigration and customs at your port of entry efficiently.
2
Luggage Collection
Collect your luggage promptly from the baggage claim area.
3
SIM Card Activation
Activate your local SIM card or confirm your phone roaming/eSIM operation.

Orientation Strategies

Locate Accommodation
Find your somewhere to stay on a map (online or offline) for initial direction.
Identify Services
Pinpoint the nearest public transport stops, ATMs, and convenience stores.
Emergency Numbers
Familiarize yourself with local emergency lines for immediate access.

Currency & Local Transport

Currency Exchange

Exchange a small amount of cash at the airport if absolutely necessary.

Plan to mostly use mobile payment applications (WeChat Pay/Alipay).

Initial Purchases

Acquire bottled water, snacks, or other immediate necessities for comfort.

Local convenience stores are readily available for these initial needs.

Transport to Accommodation

Arrange transportation from the airport or train station to your lodging.

Options include airport shuttles, taxis, or Didi ride-sharing services.

Arrival Tip

Use an airport shuttle, taxi, or Didi. Have your accommodation address written in Chinese to show the driver.

Departure Preparation

Ensure a hassle-free exit from Sanming and China by finalizing these items.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Acquire souvenirs well in advance of your departure date.
Check airline baggage allowances to avoid excess luggage fees.
If shipping items, verify customs regulations for both China and your home country.
Keep receipts for larger purchases for potential customs declarations at home.

VAT Refund Notes

China generally does not implement a VAT refund scheme for tourists on general purchases.
Do not anticipate claiming tax refunds on items acquired during your trip.
This is not the same as many other countries with extensive tourist tax-back programs.
Focus on cost savings through market bargaining or budget dining instead.

Pre-Departure Timing

Recommended Timeframes

For International Flights:2-3 hours prior
For Domestic Flights:1.5-2 hours prior
For High-Speed Trains:30-60 minutes prior
Consideration:Potential traffic or public transport delays, especially during peak hours.

Return Trip Finalization

Confirm your return flight or train details accurately.
Ensure all travel documents are in order and readily accessible.
Pack any required medications in your carry-on bag for easy access.
Inform your emergency contacts of your updated return timeline.

Critical Note

Double-check your visa validity before your planned departure.

Overstaying a visa can lead to significant fines and future travel restrictions.

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