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Zhangjiagang Travel Checklist

Zhangjiagang Travel Checklist

Zhangjiagang Jiangsu, China Travel Guide

Chronological Planning Timeline

This timeline guides you through essential steps for your trip to Zhangjiagang.

Key Milestones

Plan your preparations efficiently for a stress-free travel experience.

1

Months Before

Passport Validity

Check your passport's expiration date. It must last at at least six months after your intended stay.

Visa Application

Research and apply for your China visa. This process can consume several weeks.

International Flights

Book your international flights to a major entry airport like Shanghai Pudong (PVG).

2

Month Before

Domestic Transportation

Book major domestic transportation, like high-speed train tickets to Zhangjiagang.

Accommodations

Book your hotels or other accommodations in Zhangjiagang and any other cities.

Essential Apps Setup

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

3

Week Before

Confirm Bookings

Reconfirm all your flight, hotel, train, and tour bookings for your trip.

Pack Luggage

Pack according to the seasonal weather in Zhangjiagang and your planned activities.

Bank Notification

Inform your bank and your credit card providers about your trip plans to prevent card freezes.

Required Advance Bookings and Reservations

These bookings are important for a worry-free entry and stay.

Essential Items to Secure

  • China visa.
  • International flights.
  • Major inter-city train tickets (especially high-speed rail).
  • All hotel accommodations.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Background knowledge for a richer experience in Zhangjiagang.

Areas to Explore

  • Customs & Etiquette: Familiarize yourself for considerate dealings.
  • Language: Learn some basic Mandarin phrases.
  • Digital Payment: Understand China's digital payment ecosystem (WeChat Pay, Alipay).
  • Geography: Learn about the Yangtze River Delta region.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Take these steps to secure your home while you are away.

Security Measures

  • Secure your home: Lock all doors and windows.
  • Set alarms if you possess them.
  • Use timers for lights to create an occupied appearance.
  • Hide spare keys securely or with a trusted neighbor.

Household Management

  • Stop mail or arrange for a neighbor to collect it.
  • Pay bills due during your absence.
  • Unplug non-essential electronics to save energy.
  • Turn off your main water supply if away for an extended period.

Contact & Pet Care

  • Notify trusted contacts of your itinerary.
  • Provide emergency contact information.
  • Arrange for house-sitting or pet care as needed.
  • Share health advice for pet sitters.

Helpful Tip

Carry a small amount of toilet paper or tissues with you. Many public restrooms in China, especially outside of major tourist sites or modern facilities, may not provide them.

Arrival Checklist

These steps ensure of a smooth transition once you land within China and reaching Zhangjiagang.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • Immigration & Customs:

    Clear immigration (fingerprints, facial scan) and customs procedures.

  • Currency:

    Exchange a small amount of currency or withdraw cash from an ATM for immediate needs.

  • SIM Card/eSIM:

    Purchase a local SIM card or activate your eSIM.

Orientation Strategies

  • Transportation:

    Locate your pre-arranged transport or find public transport from the airport.

  • Check-in:

    Get to your accommodation and check in promptly.

  • Neighborhood Familiarization:

    Take a short walk around your immediate neighborhood to get your bearings.

Currency Exchange and Initial Purchases

Small Cash Amounts

While digital payments rule, a small amount of cash is useful for small vendors or unexpected situations.

This applies before Didi or other apps are fully operational.

Digital Payment Setup

Confirm your WeChat Pay/Alipay are fully functional and linked to your cards.

Most transactions in China use these services.

Local Snacks

Grab some local refreshments from a convenience store to get a taste of Zhangjiagang.

A pleasant way to begin your culinary adventure.

Transportation from Entry Point to Accommodation

If arriving at Shanghai or Nanjing, use high-speed rail and subsequently a taxi/bus to Zhangjiagang.

From Wuxi airport, a shuttle bus or Didi comes recommended. Pre-book Didi or possess the address in Chinese ready for a taxi driver.

Departure Preparation

Organize your departure to avoid last-minute rushes from Zhangjiagang.

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

  • Make any final souvenir purchases before leaving.
  • If shipping items home, use China Post or an international courier.
  • Be sure to declare items accurately for customs.
  • VAT refunds exist for certain goods purchased by foreigners.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

  • Airport: Arrive 2-3 hours before an international flight.
  • 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight.
  • Train/Bus Station: Arrive at least 30-45 minutes before departure.
  • Traffic: Allot ample extra time for potential traffic delays.

Return Trip Preparation

Ensure all aspects of your return journey are in order.

Final Checks

  • Confirm flight or train times.
  • Pack your luggage, confirming no things you can't bring.
  • Double-check all personal belongings are accounted for.
  • Fasten all important documents.

VAT Refund Procedures if applicable

  • Keep all receipts from designated stores.
  • Fill out completed forms for processing.
  • Process refunds at major international airports (e.g., PVG).
  • Do this before you depart China.

Luggage Backup Tip

Before you leave your home country, take photos of your luggage (inside and out) and its contents.

This proves valuable for insurance claims if luggage is lost or damaged.