Wuwei Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Essential Preparations

Careful planning streamlines your travel experience.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Follow this guide for a well-organized trip.

3

Three Months Ahead

Visa Application

Apply for your Chinese visa. Allow ample time, as requirements change.

Passport Validity

Check your passport. Six months validity beyond return date and two blank pages.

International Flights

Purchase international airfare to China (e.g., to Lanzhou Zhongchuan International Airport).

1

One Month Ahead

Domestic Travel

Book domestic flights or high-speed train tickets withinside China (e.g., from Lanzhou to Wuwei).

Accommodation

Book accommodations in Wuwei and any other cities on your itinerary.

Travel Insurance & Health

Arrange comprehensive travel insurance and consult your doctor for vaccinations/prescriptions.

1

One Week Ahead

Confirmations & Packing

Confirm all bookings and pack climate-appropriate clothing based on the season of your visit.

Currency & Payments

Exchange a small amount of the currency of the country or confirm mobile payment apps are linked to your international credit card. Inform bank of travel.

Medications & First-Aid

Organize prescription medications (with doctor's notes) and a Basic first-aid kit.

Required Advance Bookings

arrangements for a problem-free journey.

Critical Bookings

Chinese visa
International flights to China
Domestic flights or high-speed train tickets to/from Wuwei
Accommodation in Wuwei and other stops

Home Preparation

Securing your home before you go.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Inform family or friends of your itinerary and emergency contact information.
Arrange for mail collection or pet care if needed.
Secure your home (lock windows, turn off unnecessary appliances).
Pre-Trip Research Recommendations: Learn basic Mandarin phrases, local customs, and Silk Road history.

Getting Ready Checklist

A list of items to ensure before your departure.

Documents

Passport and Visa confirmed
Flight and train tickets
Accommodation bookings
Travel insurance policy

Digital Essentials

Essential apps downloaded
Offline maps saved
VPN installed and tested
Mobile payment setup

Health & Safety

Basic first-aid kit
Prescription medications with notes
Doctor consultation for vaccines
Emergency contacts saved

Visa and Passport Check

Double-check your visa dates and passport validity before booking anything. This prevents significant problems later in your planning.

Arrival & Departure

Smooth transitions at the start and end of your journey.

Arrival Checklist

1
Clear immigration and customs.
Have your be ready with your documents for inspection.
2
Collect your luggage.
Confirm all bags are accounted for.
3
Purchase a local SIM card (if needed).
This secures local connectivity.

Essential First Actions

Activate your VPN.
This secures access to foreign services.
Locate the airport or train a station information desk.
Seek guidance for the next leg of your trip.
Use your navigation app (Baidu Maps/Amap) to find transportation.
Directions to your accommodation are readily available.

Currency & Transport

Currency Exchange & Purchases

Exchange a small amount of cash if needed, or mainly rely on your mobile payment apps.

Purchase bottled water immediately.

Transport to Accommodation

Use your pre-arranged transfer, airport shuttle, high-speed train + taxi, or Didi ride-sharing service to reach your hotel.

Check-in Protocol

Confirm your hotel reservation with reception.

Be ready together with your passport for check-in.

Travel Documents Ready

Keep all travel documents (passport, visa, tickets) easily accessible for a smooth process.

Departure Preparation

Steps for a smooth exit from Wuwei and China.

Souvenir & Shipping

Souvenir Considerations: Shipping from China can be arranged via China Post for larger items (check customs regulations and costs).
VAT Refund Procedures: China does not generally offer VAT refunds for tourists on goods purchased.

Return Trip Essentials

Reconfirm your return flights or train schedules.
Ensure all travel documents (passport, visa, tickets) are easily accessible.
Pack any last-minute items.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allocate sufficient time for your departure.

Timing Recommendations

Airport: Arrive (Lanzhou Zhongchuan for international flights)2-3 hours before departure
Train/Bus Station: Arrive at least30-60 minutes before departure

Final Document Review

Double-check your visa dates and passport validity.
Confirm all booking details for your onward journey.
Ensure mobile payment apps are topped up or have emergency cash.
Review any customs declarations.

Important Document Check

Double-check your visa dates and passport validity before booking anything.

This prevents significant problems later in your planning.

Wuwei Travel Checklist

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