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Nanning Travel Checklist

Nanning Travel Checklist

Nanning Guangxi, China Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Start your planning early to avoid last-minute rushing and meet all requirements.

Planning Timeline

A chronological guide to ensure nothing is missed before your Nanning trip.

1

Three Months Out

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6+ months, 2 blank pages). Begin visa application (it can take weeks).

Flight Bookings

Book international and major domestic flights.

Health & Insurance

Consult doctor for vaccinations. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads).

2

One Month Out

Internal Travel & Stays

Book high-speed rail tickets and all types of accommodation.

App & VPN Setup

Download essential apps (WeChat, Alipay, DiDi, Maps, Pleco). Set up and test your VPN.

Language Basics

Start learning basic Mandarin phrases for daily interactions.

3

One Week Out

Confirm & Pack

Reconfirm all bookings. Pack appropriate clothing, medications, Power adapter.

Bank & Cash

Notify banks of travel dates. Arrange some cash (USD/EUR) for exchange or ensure digital apps are ready.

Document Copies

Make physical and digital copies of important documents; store them separately.

Bookings

These reservations need advance planning for a smooth journey.

Advance Reservations

  • Your China visa (unless visa-free transit applies).
  • International flights to and from China.
  • Major domestic transport (high-speed rail or flights within China).
  • Accommodation, most notably if traveling in peak season.

Before You Go

Familiarize yourself and secure your home before departing.

Pre-Trip Research & Home Care

  • Familiarize yourself with Nanning's climate, currency, and customs.
  • Notify your bank and credit card companies of travel dates.
  • Inform trusted family of your itinerary.
  • Arrange for pet care or stop mail delivery if gone longer.

Digital Payment Setup

Digital payments dominate in China; prepare these apps.

WeChat Pay

  • Download the WeChat app.
  • Link your international credit card.
  • Practice scanning QR codes.
  • Set up a payment password.

Alipay

  • Download the Alipay app.
  • Complete real-name verification with your passport.
  • Link your international bank card.
  • Ready for a variety of payments.

VPN Usage

  • Download a reliable VPN Before entering China (NordVPN).
  • Test your VPN to ensure it works properly.
  • Access international apps and websites.
  • Activating a VPN after arrival may be difficult.

Visa & Passport Validity

Ensure your passport maintains validity for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from China. Also, check it has at least two blank visa pages. Begin your Chinese visa application process well in advance.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours upon arrival are for getting comfortable. Follow this checklist for a smooth transition.

Initial Steps

  • 1
    Clear Immigration:

    Present your passport and visa (or visa-free transit confirmation).

  • 2
    Collect Luggage:

    Retrieve your checked bags from baggage claim.

  • 3
    Currency Exchange:

    Exchange a bit of cash at the airport if needed, or locate an ATM.

Orientation Strategies

  • Navigation:

    Use Baidu Maps navigation or Amap on your phone to find your accommodation.

  • Local SIM:

    Acquire a local SIM card to get connected right away, which helps with digital payments.

  • Digital Payments:

    Link your international credit card to WeChat Pay or Alipay when you have have local internet access.

Transportation from Entry Point

Airport Shuttle Bus

Economical and direct to various city points.

Look for signs at Nanning Wuxu International Airport.

Metro

The fastest and cheapest choice from the airport or Nanning East Train Station.

Avoids surface traffic, very efficient.

DiDi/Taxi

Door-to-door convenience, especially when carrying luggage.

A quick choice, but at a higher cost.

Connectivity Alert

A local SIM card and linked digital payment apps are important immediately upon arrival. This streamlines communication, navigation, and nearly all transactions.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure efficiently to ensure a relaxed and timely exit from Nanning.

Souvenirs & Refunds

  • Purchase souvenirs well in advance to avoid last-minute rushing.
  • If shipping items home, confirm customs regulations and prices with major couriers.
  • China has a VAT refund scheme for tourists from other countries on specific goods.
  • Look for "Tax Free" signs when shopping; keep receipts for refunds at international airports.

Return Journey Tips

  • Reverify information for your return flights or onward journey.
  • Ensure all personal belongings are packed; double-check hotel rooms for forgotten items.
  • Pay any outstanding hotel bills or other local expenses.
  • Spend any remaining local currency or save it for a future China trip.

Departure Timing

Allow ample time for airport and train station procedures.

Recommended Arrival Times

  • International Flights:2-3 hours before
  • Domestic Flights:1.5-2 hours before
  • High-Speed Train:30-60 minutes before
  • Check Status:Confirm flight/train status before you go out.

Home Security

  • Secure your home by locking all windows and doors.
  • Stop mail delivery or ask a neighbor to collect it.
  • Pay any bills due during your absence.
  • Leave a copy of your itinerary and emergency contacts with a trusted person.

Smooth Departure

A well-planned exit reduces stress. Account for travel time to your departure point and check for any last-minute delays.

Having all documents, payments, and belongings organized guarantees a relaxed journey home.

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