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

Essential Preparations

A structured planning timeline for all important tasks before your departure.

Your Planning Journey

Chronological Planning Timeline for a smooth experience.

1

Months Before

Apply for your Chinese visa.

This process can take time, so start early.

Book your international flights.

Secure better prices and availability.

Begin researching your Kaifeng itinerary.

Plan desired activities and attractions.

2

Month Before

Book major accommodation and high-speed train tickets.

Important if traveling during peak season or holidays.

Schedule any required vaccinations or consult a travel doctor.

Obtain recommendations for health precautions.

Arrange comprehensive travel insurance.

Protect against unforeseen circumstances with World Nomads.

3

Week Before

Confirm all flight, hotel, and train reservations.

Double-check all reservation details.

Begin packing.

Ensure you have climate-appropriate clothing.

Obtain some local currency or set up mobile payment apps.

WeChat Pay and Alipay should link to your international credit card.

Advance Bookings

The most required item for entry.

Required Items

Visa: This is the most required item.
International Flights: Book these early for better prices and availability.
High-Speed Train Tickets: Book in advance, especially during holidays or for popular routes.
Popular Hotels: Secure your accommodation, notably if you have specific preferences or travel during peak season.

Pre-Trip Research

Understand local subtleties and logistical requirements.

Areas of Study

Familiarize yourself with Chinese etiquette plus cultural etiquette.
Learn some basic Mandarin phrases. Visit Babbel.com
Understand how to use a VPN to access international services.
Research Kaifeng'the key attractions and opening hours.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Before leaving, secure your home and inform contacts.

Contacts

Inform someone you trust about your travel plans.
Provide contact details.
Emergency contact numbers for your location.
Neighbors for access, if needed.

Services

Stop mail and newspaper delivery.
Arrange for pet care.
Organize someone to water your plants.
Forward mail: Temporarily redirect deliveries.

Security

Secure your home by locking all doors and windows.
Set home alarm system.
Unplug non-essential electronics.
Inform security: If you have a neighborhood watch.

Travel Insurance

A comprehensive travel insurance policy for unforeseen events such as medical emergencies or trip cancellations. Consider World Nomads.

Arrival Checklist

These steps assist a smooth and stress-free arrival in Kaifeng.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration and Customs
Clear immigration and customs procedures at Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO).
2
Luggage Collection
Collect your checked luggage from the baggage claim area.
3
SIM Card/Data and VPN
Activate your local SIM card or ensure your mobile data and VPN work correctly for navigation and communication.

Orientation Strategies

Transport to Kaifeng
Locate the airport shuttle bus or train station for your shuttle to Kaifeng.
Accommodation Navigation
Use your navigation app (Baidu Maps/Gaode Maps) to find your way from the Kaifeng arrival point to your accommodation.
Local Knowledge
Gather maps and brochures from info desks at the airport or train station.

Initial Needs

Currency Exchange

Exchange a bit of cash at the airport, or withdraw from an ATM.

Ensure mobile payment apps (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are fully set up for immediate use.

Immediate Purchases

Purchase necessities like bottled water or a snack.

Consider local transport cards for convenience.

To Your Accommodation

Utilize your pre-booked airport shuttle, a taxi, a Didi ride, or public transport to reach your hotel.

Confirm your hotel address in Chinese for drivers.

Connectivity

An active local SIM card and a functional VPN are crucial for navigation, communication, and accessing international services.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure from Kaifeng to ensure a hassle-free journey home.

Souvenir and Shipping

Purchase Souvenirs: Buy your souvenirs in advance, allowing time to choose and pack them.
Luggage Allowances: Check your airline's luggage allowances for weight, size, and restrictions.
Shipping: If you have large purchases, inquire about shipping options from the vendor.
Duty-Free: Explore airport duty-free buying final gifts.

VAT Refund Procedures if applicable

China does not currently have a widely implemented VAT refund scheme for tourists on most goods.
Do not expect to claim VAT refunds.
Local Tax: Check any local taxes applied to purchases.
Receipts: Keep receipts for high-value items, if needed for personal records.

Departure Timing

Allow ample travel time to the airport or train station.

Timing Considerations

Airport/Train TransferAllow ample time for your transfer from Kaifeng to Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport or Kaifeng North Railway Station.
Traffic/DelaysFactor in potential traffic or public transport delays.
Check-in/SecurityArrive at the airport or train station with enough time to complete check-in, security screening, and any immigration procedures.
Boarding GatesLocate your gate promptly to avoid last-minute rushing.

Return Trip

Confirm Travel: Reconfirm your flights or train tickets.
Packing: Pack efficiently, Using organizers, and ensure all documents are easily accessible.
Documents: Double-check that you have your passport, boarding passes, and any other required travel documents.
Home : Remember your home keys.

Packing Efficiency

Organized packing with products from Eagle Creek simplifies your return journey and luggage management.

This helps in keeping your belongings secure and accessible.

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