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

Your Detailed Travel Plan

Follow this chronological guide to cover all preparations.

Key Planning Milestones

Arrange what you need to do month by month for stress-free travel.

3M

Initial Steps

Passport & Visa Check

Ensure passport has 6+ months validity; begin China visa application.

Flight Reservations

Book international flights to China for better deals and availability.

Itinerary Research

Research major attractions you want to visit in Jiuquan and the region.

1M

Intermediate Bookings

Domestic Travel

Book domestic flights or train tickets for segments of your journey.

Accommodation Secure

Secure your main accommodations in Jiuquan and other cities.

App Setup & Health

Download key applications; consult doctor for vaccinations and meds.

1W

Final Touches

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance for peace of mind.

Bank & Currency

Notify bank of travel; exchange some CNY or check ACCESS to atms.

Packing & Documents

Pack luggage; make copies of documents (digital & physical).

Essential Advance Bookings

Secure these items well ahead of your trip.

Booking Priorities

Visa application for China.
International and major domestic flights.
Train tickets for popular routes and during peak season.
Mogao Grottoes tickets (if visiting Dunhuang) must be booked weeks in advance.

Home & Pre-Trip Research

Organize your home and immerse yourself in local knowledge.

Home & Cultural Prep

Sort out mail delivery/pet care; secure your home before leaving.
Familiarize yourself with Chinese culture and etiquette.
Understand China's internet situation and the necessity of a VPN.
Learn about regional dishes and dining customs.

Travel Documents & Connectivity

Ensure all necessary papers and digital access are ready.

Passport & Visa

Passport valid for 6+ months past your return date.
Valid Chinese visa with sufficient entry duration.
Electronic and hard copies of all documents.
Store copies separately from originals.

Connectivity Prep

Local SIM card setup for calls and data.
Ensure your data plan is activated.
NordVPN installed and tested before arrival.
Access to global internet services.

Financial Readiness

Notify your bank of your travel plans.
WeChat Pay and Alipay activated on your phone.
Some Chinese Yuan (CNY) currency on hand.
Emergency cash is useful for small vendors.

VPN Reminder

Install and test your VPN before arrival. Many Western apps and websites are blocked in China without one.

Arrival & Departure

A smooth welcome and farewell from Jiuquan.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear immigration and customs procedures.
Collect your luggage; exchange currency or withdraw cash from an ATM.
2
Acquire and activate a local SIM card.
Ensure mobile data and calls are functional for directions and communication.
3
Locate your airport shuttle or taxi to your accommodation.
Have your hotel address written in Chinese characters for ease.

Getting Oriented

Get a local map (digital or physical) of Jiuquan.
Digital maps like Baidu Maps or Gaode Maps are often more practical.
Familiarize yourself with your accommodation's neighborhood.
Locate nearby restaurants, shops, and bus stops.
Learn to use the local public transport system.
Buses are very inexpensive and efficient with navigation apps.