Hebei China Travel Guide
Organize your trip effectively with this planning timeline.
Steps to take well in advance, and as a departure approaches.
Check passport validity (6+ months remaining, blank visa pages). Research China's visa needs for your nationality.
Consult a travel doctor for vaccinations. Acquire comprehensive Travel insurance (medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage).
Book your international flights to a major Chinese hub (e.g., Beijing, Shanghai).
Submit an application for your Chinese visa, compiling all documents. Complete any recommended vaccinations.
Book domestic flights to Shijiazhuang (SJW) or high-speed train tickets. Secure your accommodations.
Install and test a reliable VPN. Familiarize yourself with WeChat Pay and Alipay, linking an international credit card if possible.
Reconfirm all flight, hotel, and excursion reservations. Arrange for a local SIM card or an International eSIM.
Learn basic Chinese phrases. Print and save electronic copies of all key documents. Assemble your Personal first-aid kit.
Start a detailed packing list. Let your bank and credit card company know companies of your travel dates.
Confirm these bookings well in advance for peace of mind.
Familiarize yourself with important aspects of your destination.
Steps to take at home before you leave for your trip.
Around 1 week before departure: do a final check of all travel details, charge all electronics, and download offline maps and translation dictionaries.
These steps aid in settling in upon arrival.
Clear immigration and customs efficiently; have your passport, visa, and arrival card ready.
Collect your luggage promptly from the carousel.
Activate your local SIM or ESIM to connect to mobile networks.
Locate the airport or train the train station information desk. Use downloaded navigation apps (Baidu Maps/Amap) to orient yourself.
Exchange a small amount of cash or use an ATM for local currency. Purchase bottled water immediately.
From Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport (SJW) or Shijiazhuang Railway Station, use the metro, an airport bus, or a taxi/Didi to your hotel. Consider a Shijiazhuang Transportation Card.
Connect to airport Wi-Fi where possible to get initial updates or contact friends.
Use this for quick web check-ins before SIM activation.
Learn the name of your hotel or a location in Chinese characters for taxi drivers.
Having this ready prevents miscommunication and saves time.
Keep your passport and visa accessible for any checks during initial registration or hotel check-in.
Digital copies are useful backups on your phone.
This eliminates language barriers.
Prepare for a smooth departure and your return journey.
Confirm you have all necessary paperwork.
Ensure your passport, visa, and tickets are easily accessible. This makes for a smoother check-in and security process.
Take any gifts or souvenirs securely in your luggage. For larger items, think about shipping well in advance.
