MileHacker Logo
Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Guangxi, China

Required Preparations

A planning timeline makes task management efficient.

Planning Timeline

Follow these steps for a well-organized trip.

1

+ Months Ahead

Visa & Passport

Research visa requirements and apply for your China visa. Start early.

Passport Validity

Check passport validity (6+ months beyond departure) and blank pages.

International Flights

Book international flights; earlier booking often finds better rates.

2

Month Ahead

Domestic Travel

Book major domestic flights and high-speed train tickets for peak season.

Accommodation

Reserve accommodation in Guilin, Yangshuo, and Longji.

Essential Apps

Download and set up WeChat, Alipay, Didi, and a reliable VPN.

3

Week Ahead

Confirm Bookings

Confirm all flights, hotels, trains, and tours.

Pack Essentials

Pack climate-appropriate clothing and other items.

Charge Devices

Charge all electronics and power banks fully.

Advance Bookings

Secure these well in advance to avoid disappointment and higher prices.

Reservations

  • China visa (most time-consuming).
  • International and domestic flights/trains.
  • Popular Li River cruises.
  • Impression Sanjie Liu show tickets.

Pre-Trip Knowledge

This shapes expectations and deepens your trip.

Research & Home Prep

  • Understand China's digital landscape (VPN, cashless society).
  • Familiarize yourself with basic etiquette and food culture.
  • Read about the history and geography of Guilin.
  • Secure your home, inform contacts, arrange pet/mail care.

Last Minute Items

Ensure smooth travel by completing these tasks.

Document Copies

  • Make digital and physical copies of documents.
  • Include passport, visa, insurance, prescriptions.
  • Store copies separately from originals.
  • A universal travel adapter for devices.

Financial Alerts

  • Notify your bank of travel dates.
  • Inform credit card companies to avoid suspension.
  • Have some small local cash for initial needs.
  • Ensure mobile payment apps are working.

Essential App Setup

  • Confirm WeChat, Alipay, Didi are active.
  • Verify VPN functionality before departure.
  • Download offline language packs for translation apps.
  • Arrange airport transfers if preferred.

Travel Insurance Reminder:

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. This policy should cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

Arrival Checklist

Smooth transition upon arrival in Guilin follows these steps.

First Steps upon Landing

  • 1
    Clear Immigration & Customs

    Have your passport and visa ready.

  • 2
    Locate Airport Transport

    Find the airport shuttle or taxi stand.

  • 3
    Get a Local SIM Card

    Purchase one if not pre-arranged; aids local communication.

Initial Actions

  • Orientation Strategy

    Get a local map, identify your hotel, and nearby transport.

  • Currency & Initial Purchases

    Exchange currency or withdraw cash; test mobile payments.

  • Transport to Accommodation

    Use pre-booked transfer, shuttle, or Didi/taxi; confirm destination.

Departure Preparation

Souvenir & Shipping

Allow time for last-minute souvenir shopping.

Inquire about international shipping for large items.

VAT Refund If Applicable

China has a VAT refund scheme for foreign tourists.

The process can be complex; check official guidelines.

Departure Timing

Arrive at KWL 2-3 hours before international flights.

1.5-2 hours for domestic flights; allow extra for security.

Final Checks for Departure:

Ensure all travel documents for your next destination are in order.

Return Trip Details

Prepare for your return journey with these reminders.

Luggage & Prohibited Items

  • Repack luggage according to airline baggage rules.
  • Dispose of any prohibited items before airport security.
  • Check weight limits to avoid extra fees.
  • Confirm carry-on size restrictions.

Final Departure Checks

  • Double-check your departure time and terminal.
  • Confirm home preparation (mail, pets, plants).
  • Pay any upcoming bills before leaving.
  • Charge all devices for your journey.

Emergency Reminders

Keep these contacts and procedures close at hand.

Contacts

  • Police:110
  • Fire:119
  • Ambulance:120
  • Embassy/Consulate:Emergency Number

Additional Notes

  • If shipping large items, costs and delivery times vary.
  • Plan your route to the airport well ahead.
  • Traffic near airports can be heavy during peak times.
  • Ensure your visa status matches your departure country's entry rules.

Final Confirmation:

Always double-check all bookings and documents.

A smooth trip begins and ends with thorough preparation.