What a trip to China costs and how to pay: Alipay, WeChat and cash

Why almost nobody pays cash in China, how to link a foreign card to local apps and how much of a reserve to keep.

In China most payments go through the Alipay and WeChat Pay mobile apps: people pay by QR code in shops, cafés, taxis and markets. Cash is formally accepted, but in many places it is not expected, and there may be no change. For a visitor this is the main feature of the trip, and it is worth preparing for before you fly.

How a foreigner can pay

Foreign bank cards can be linked to Alipay and WeChat Pay, but the terms (which cards are accepted, payment limits and fees) change, and linking and identity checks often take time, so set up the app in advance and check that it works. Also keep a Visa or Mastercard: it is accepted in large hotels and shopping centres, but not everywhere.

Cash and a reserve

Take a small amount of yuan in cash: for small purchases and in case an app payment fails. It is best to exchange money at banks with your passport, as the rate at the airport and hotel is usually worse. ATMs charge a fee, so withdraw less often and more.

Budget

Costs differ greatly between megacities and the provinces. Split the budget into accommodation, food, transport between cities (high-speed trains, flights), tickets to museums and sights, connectivity and a reserve, and convert the total into your own currency in our converter. If a terminal offers to charge "in your own currency", choose yuan.