Lanzhou Gansu, China Travel Guide
A chronological timeline for your trip preparations, covering important steps to ensure a smooth journey.
Structured steps to guide your preparations from several months out to the week of departure.
Check passport validity (6+ months beyond travel). Apply for Chinese visa early.
Book international flights to China to get better deals and availability.
Consult doctor for vaccinations and health recommendations.
Book domestic flights or high-speed train admission to Lanzhou.
Book all accommodation and consider early booking for popular tours.
Download essential apps (WeChat, Alipay, VPN). Start basic Mandarin phrases.
Reconfirm all bookings. Pack climate-appropriate clothing. Get Eagle Creek organizers.
Notify your bank of your travel dates to avoid card issues. Purchase World Nomads travel insurance.
Organize all documents. Charge electronics. Pack universal power adapter. Download offline maps.
These items absolutely make up a smooth entry and travel experience.
Gain context and cultural readiness for your visit.
Secure your home front before embarking on your journey.
Make digital copies of your passport, visa, and travel insurance policy. Store them in a secured cloud service and email them to yourself. This gives a strong backup.
Your Lanzhou arrival becomes smooth with a clear plan. This checklist guides you through initial steps upon entering China and reaching your accommodation.
Clear immigration and customs at your port of entry. Have passport and visa ready.
Retrieve your checked luggage from the carousel.
Connect to airport Wi-Fi (when accessible) or activate your local SIM card for apps.
Familiarize yourself with the immediate hotel surroundings. Locate nearby convenience stores, pharmacies, and public transport.
Use your online map app (Baidu Maps/Amap) to get oriented. Pin your hotel location.
Identify the nearest metro or bus station, a grocery store, and a pharmacy for convenience.
Prioritize setting up and using WeChat Pay and Alipay. Link your international credit card immediately.
Mobile payment use is paramount for nearly all transactions.
Carry a small amount of local currency (CNY) for very small merchants or as a backup.
Purchase a local SIM card if you have not arranged an eSIM.
From Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport (ZGC), use the airport railway or Didi/taxi.
From train stations, use metro/bus or Didi/taxi from designated stands.
Confirm your VPN function and WeChat Pay/Alipay setup with your international credit card upon internet access. These platforms handle nearly all transactions and communication in China.
A well-organized departure marks a smooth end to your Lanzhou trip. This checklist helps manage final tasks and reach your departure point without issues.
Arriving with enough time prevents stress and potential issues.
Before heading to the airport or train station, double-check that you have your passport, visa, and tickets.
These three documents are most important for your departure.
