Tips on Using Money in China

As when traveling anywhere in the world, you need to practice discernment when it comes to handling money.  Before your trip to China, look into the current exchange rate for the Yuan and whether you can better exchange rate in your home country or once you arrive in China.  Be careful when exchanging money in China, and try your best to pay with multiple smaller denominations than a single, large Yuan note.  You should be able to obtain cash at any Chinese international airport upon your arrival.

While the average restaurant, shop, and your hotel in China will likely accept major credit cards, it is always a good idea to carry a certain amount of cash on you at all times and try to make your purchases with such, especially if you are heading into a more rural or remote area of the country.  Fortunately, banks can be found easily, provide English instructions, and accept foreign credit cards.  Be sure to alert your bank to your upcoming trip to China and ask them if you will incur any fees for using it abroad.

While traveler’s checks are intended to be respected the world over, whether a bank teller in China decides to verify and accept them at any given time is another story.  You are better off bringing a reasonable amount of cash for your immediate needs once you arrive than by purchasing traveler’s checks.

Payments made by way of a mobile device are increasingly common and in China can be made through WeChat and Alipay.  You will likely come across QR codes to make a mobile payment for a taxi, street vendor, or other merchant in many parts of the country.  Apple pay exists as well, but is not supported by as many merchants as WeChat and Alipay.  

Chinatour.com is on Your Side

Speak with a representative here are Chinatour.com and get answers to any questions you have about Chinese currency and what to expect on your exciting tour of China.  We have all the know-how to handle any and all of your questions or concerns.

Check out these other travel tips, or reach out to us to get more information.