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Luzhou Travel Checklist

Luzhou Travel Checklist

Luzhou Sichuan, China Travel Guide

Essential Preparations for Your Trip

A chronological planning timeline helps manage tasks effectively.

Your Planning Timeline

Break down your preparation into manageable steps for a well-organized journey.

1

Months Before

Passport Validity

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your return date.

China Visa Application

Start the visa application early, as it may take time.

International Flights

Secure your international flights to a major Chinese hub.

2

Month Before

Domestic Travel

Reserve domestic flights or high-speed train tickets to Luzhou.

Accommodation Bookings

Confirm your hotel or guesthouse bookings.

Vaccinations & VPN

Consult your doctor for vaccinations. Install a VPN (e.g., NordVPN) before arrival.

3

Week Before

Confirm Bookings

Double-check all flight, train, hotel, and tour reservations.

Document Organization

Gather all original documents; create physical and digital copies.

Bank & Apps

Notify your bank of travel. Load translation and map apps (Baidu Maps navigation/Amap).

Required Advance Bookings

These items are crucial for a smooth entry and trip.

Essential Reservations

  • Visa: This is a critical advance booking.
  • International and Domestic Flights: Secure these well in advance.
  • High-Speed Train Tickets: Book early, especially for popular routes or during holidays.
  • Popular Hotels: Reserve your preferred accommodation, especially during peak season.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Knowledge about local practices enriches your journey.

Areas to Research

  • Culture and Etiquette: Learn about Chinese culture and etiquette for polite interactions.
  • Mandarin Phrases: Learn basic phrases for daily communication.
  • Internet Restrictions: Recognize China's internet restrictions (the Great Firewall) and effective VPN use.
  • Home Preparation: Inform trusted family of your itinerary. Arrange for mail, pet care, or house-sitting if needed. Ensure bills are paid.

Preparing Your Home Before Departure

Contacts and Itinerary

  • Notify trusted contacts of your itinerary for your trip.
  • Share dates and locations.
  • Leave emergency contact information.
  • Consider regular check-ins.

Home and Pet Care

  • Arrange for pet care if needed.
  • Secure house-sitting or regular checks.
  • Stop mail or arrange for collection.
  • Water plants or arrange for plant care.

Financial and Administrative

  • Ensure all recurring bills are paid or scheduled.
  • Notify your bank of travel plans.
  • Make preparations for any financial matters.
  • Confirm your Travel insurance is active.

Upon Arrival Checklist

These steps assist you in orienting yourself and settling in upon arriving in Luzhou, making your initial hours smoother and more organized.

Arrival Checklist for Luzhou

These steps help you orient yourself and settle in upon arriving in Luzhou.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration and Customs

    Complete clearance at your initial port of entry into China.

  • 2
    Baggage Claim

    Collect your luggage efficiently.

  • 3
    Local SIM Card / eSIM

    Acquire a local SIM card or activate your eSIM for connectivity.

Orientation Strategies

  • Locate Accommodation

    Find your lodging on a map (Baidu Maps/Amap).

  • Familiarize with Transport

    Recognize local transportation options from your arrival point to your hotel.

  • Learn Names

    Learn the names of your hotel and local landmarks in Mandarin characters.

Initial Practicalities

Currency Exchange

Exchange a small amount of currency at the airport upon arrival.

Use an ATM in the urban area or a bank for better exchange rates, or verify mobile payment setup.

Initial Purchases

Make initial purchases of bottled water and snacks for immediate needs.

Identify convenience stores or small markets near your accommodation.

Transport to Accommodation

Consider pre-arranging an airport transfer for ease.

Use official airport shuttle buses, or Didi from designated stands. Avoid unofficial solicitations.

Important Navigation Tip

Keep the Chinese characters for your hotel address readily available to show to taxi cab drivers or for asking directions.

Departure Preparation from Luzhou

Plan your departure efficiently to avoid last-minute rush and for a smooth journey home.

Souvenirs and Shipping

  • Purchase souvenirs throughout your trip to avoid a rushed shopping spree on your last day.
  • Check your airline's baggage allowance to avoid overweight fees.
  • If shipping items, use reputable postal services (China Post) or international couriers (DHL, FedEx).
  • Ensure items are properly packed for international transit.

VAT Refund Procedures and Timing

  • China has a VAT refund scheme for tourists from other countries, but it applies to items purchased from specific designated stores.
  • A minimum spend is typically required. It is not widely available for all purchases and can be complex.
  • Airport: Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights, 1.5-2 hours for domestic flights.
  • Train/Bus: Arrive at the station 30-45 minutes before departure for high-speed trains, 30 minutes for long-distance buses.

Essential Checks for Departure

A final review of details helps avoid any last-minute issues.

Final Departure Review

  • Confirm flight or train details one last time.
  • Ensure all personal your items are packed.
  • Have your passport and boarding passes ready.
  • Double-check luggage weight and dimensions.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Reconfirm your onward travel plans, whether international or domestic.
  • Prepare for your return home: notify contacts, arrange transport from your arrival airport.
  • Save all receipts and documents organized, especially if you plan to claim VAT refunds.
  • Consider booking any necessary transfers or taxis in advance for your home arrival.

Final Tip

Leave ample time for unexpected delays at the airport or train station.

A calm departure makes for a pleasant end to your journey.

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