3 Best Apps for Travelling to China

Last week, I had the opportunity to attend the Oppo Find X9 Ultra launch in Chengdu, China. Little did I know that I would need a set of specific apps to make my trip a smooth one. While I usually rely on Google Maps and Monzo for my travels, I quickly learned that these apps wouldn’t cut it in China. Thanks to some valuable advice from a fellow traveler, I was able to download three essential apps that proved to be lifesavers during my time in China.

Amap

As a frequent user of Google Maps, I was surprised to find out that it wasn’t as reliable in China. Instead, I turned to Amap, a mapping app that provided accurate information about roads and locations in China. Amap was particularly helpful when it came to navigating public transport in Chengdu. It guided me to the station entrance, provided live GPS location, and detailed information about the transportation lines and stops. With Amap, I didn’t have to worry about getting lost in a foreign city.

Alipay

While my trusty Monzo card has served me well in many countries, it wasn’t widely accepted in China. That’s where Alipay came in. Setting up Alipay was a breeze, and I could even link my Monzo card to it before my trip. Alipay uses QR codes and barcodes for payments, making it convenient for transactions at various establishments. While I initially had trouble getting Alipay to work on my Android phone, it worked seamlessly on an iPhone.

Nomad eSIM

Roaming can be a headache when traveling, which is why I always travel with an eSIM. Nomad eSIM, in particular, has been my go-to choice for seamless connectivity abroad. With Nomad eSIM, I could set up my data plan before leaving home, monitor my usage during my trip, and easily top up if needed. The eSIM worked flawlessly in China, allowing me to access my usual services and bypass China’s internet restrictions.

These three apps—Amap, Alipay, and Nomad eSIM—were essential in helping me navigate, make payments, and stay connected during my trip to China. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or planning a one-time visit, these apps are a must-have for a hassle-free experience in China.

This article is based on my personal experience during a trip hosted by Oppo. The opinions expressed are unbiased, and the brand has had no influence on the content.