Essential Preparations: Suzhou

Chronological Planning Timeline

A phased approach to trip organization.

Before You Go

Steps for a smooth start.

Months Ahead

Visa & Passport

Apply for China Visa. Passport validity: six months beyond stay, two blank pages.

International Flights

Book international flights to Shanghai (PVG/SHA) or Wuxi (WUX).

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance (medical, evacuation, cancellation).

Month Ahead

Confirm Bookings

Double-check flights, hotels, and pre-booked tours.

Connectivity & Apps

Arrange local SIM/eSIM. Download WeChat, Alipay, Didi, Maps, Translate.

VPN Setup

Install and test your VPN to confirm it works in China before you leave.

Week Ahead

Document Copies

Make physical and digital copies of passport, visa, and confirmations.

Notify Bank

Inform your bank of travel dates to avoid card suspensions.

Charge Electronics

Fully charge your phone, power bank, and camera. Pack adapters.

Required Advance Bookings

Items needing early reservation.

Must-Book Items

Visa (if your nationality requires one).
International and domestic flights.
Hotels, especially during peak seasons.
High-speed train tickets for inter-city travel.

Pre-Trip Research Topics

Informed travel leads to better experiences.

Research Categories

Latest visa and entry regulations for China.
Suzhou Metro map and bus routes.
Detailed weather forecast for your travel dates.
Chinese etiquette and social norms.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Secure your home before leaving.

Inform Contacts

Provide detailed itinerary to someone reliable.
Share emergency contact information.
Keep a contact method available for them.
Confirm your return date.

Manage Deliveries

Arrange for a hold on mail delivery.
Stop newspaper subscriptions.
Ask a neighbor to collect packages.
Notify neighbors if away for an extended period.

Secure Home & Pets

Lock all doors and windows.
Secure pet sitting or boarding arrangements.
Unplug non-essential electronics.
Reduce fire risk.

Smart Tip

Unplug non-essential electronics to save energy and reduce fire risk.

Arrival Checklist

The first hours in Suzhou establish your trip's tone.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear Immigration and Customs
Follow procedures at your port of entry (e.g., Shanghai airport).
2
Activate SIM Card or Connect to Wi-Fi
Get connected as soon as possible, activate SIM or use airport Wi-Fi.
3
Exchange Some Currency
Exchange a small amount for immediate needs, or verify mobile payment apps work.

Orientation & Transport

Familiarize with Neighborhood
Take a few minutes to explore your immediate surroundings upon arrival.
Locate Nearest Essentials
Find the nearest metro station, convenience store, and ATM.
Transportation to Accommodation
Utilize pre-planned transport. Have your hotel address in Chinese characters.

Departure Preparation

Souvenir Shopping

Factor in time for last-minute souvenir shopping on your final day.

Confirm international shipping costs and procedures for large purchases.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allow ample time for travel from Suzhou to the airport (Pudong or Hongqiao).

Account for check-in, security, and immigration lines.

Return Trip Checks

Double-check return flight or train details and terminal information.

Ensure all liquids in carry-on luggage comply with airline security regulations.

Important Note

China does not have a widespread Value Added Tax (VAT) refund system for tourists on goods purchased. Do not expect to claim VAT refunds.

Home Security Checklist

Ensure peace of mind while away from home.

Security Measures

Lock all doors and windows securely.
Set home alarms if you have them.
Unplug non-essential electronics to save energy.
Reduce fire risk by unplugging appliances.

Neighbor & Pet Care

Notify trusted neighbors of your absence.
Arrange for mail or newspaper hold/collection.
Secure pet sitting or boarding if you have pets.
Confirm pet care arrangements are in place.

Emergency Contacts at Home

Ensure someone can be reached in case of home emergencies.

Contacts

Reliable Friend/Family MemberPhone Number
House Sitter/Pet SitterPhone Number
Plumber (Local Service)Phone Number
Electrician (Local Service)Phone Number

Digital Safety Reminders

Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions.
Use strong, unique passwords for online accounts.
Back up important digital files before you leave.
Clear browser history and cookies on public computers.

Final Home Check

Do a final walk-through to confirm all windows are closed and doors are locked.

Ensure all electronics are unplugged, and no water faucets are left running.

Essential Preparations