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I Wasn’t Ready for China 🇨🇳 19 SHOCKING Things I Learned the Hard Way!
China Travel Tips: 19 Shocking Lessons Learned the Hard Way
China changed us.
After 18 months on the road, we’ve made every mistake so you don’t have to.
In this episode, we reveal the 19 lessons we learned the hard way.
From what jot to do when you first land, what apps to use and even being safe in china. This is you ultimate china survival guide. Make...
China changed us. After 18 months on the road, we’ve made every mistake so you don’t have to. In this episode, we reveal the 19 lessons we learned the hard way. From what not to do when you first land, what apps to use and even being safe in China. This is your ultimate China survival guide. Make sure you watch this before you go!
September 2025 | Vlog 555 | Beijing, China
13/34 Province
When we finally started our adventure
Embark on a journey through China with On Tour With Dridgers as they share 19 hard-earned lessons from their extensive travels. This isn't just a travelogue; it's an essential survival guide for anyone planning a trip. Discover crucial tips for your arrival, essential apps to download, and vital safety advice. Prepare to be surprised by the realities of China, as the Dridgers reveal shocking insights that will change your perspective. This vlog promises an immersive and eye-opening experience, making it a must-watch before your own Chinese adventure.
China changed us. After 18 months on the road, we’ve made every mistake so you don’t have to. In this episode, we reveal the 19 lessons we learned the hard way. From what not to do when you first land, what apps to use and even being safe in China. This is your ultimate China survival guide. Make sure you watch this before you go!
September 2025 | Vlog 555 | Beijing, China
13/34 Province
When we finally started our adventure
This episode from On Tour With Dridgers offers a deep dive into the realities of traveling in China, presented as a survival guide based on the couple's extensive experience. They begin by highlighting the absolute necessity of key apps: WeChat and Alipay for all transactions, and a reliable VPN to bypass internet restrictions. The video stresses that cash is largely obsolete, with digital payments dominating. A significant portion is dedicated to the language barrier, advising the use of translation apps and devices, while also noting that locals are generally helpful. Contrary to some expectations, China is presented as a remarkably safe country, even for solo female travelers, with extensive surveillance contributing to a low crime rate.
The efficiency and comfort of China's high-speed trains are a major highlight, described as a superior travel experience to flying. For booking accommodations and transport, Trip.com is highly recommended. The importance of immediate internet access upon arrival via an eSIM or SIM card is emphasized, as many services, including hotel Wi-Fi, require a local number. Practical advice is given on finding toilets, with a note on the prevalence of squat toilets and the luxury of smart toilets in modern hotels. The vast diversity of China's regions, from snowy landscapes to tropical areas and deserts, is touched upon, influencing local cuisines and languages.
Street food safety is addressed, with the explanation that vendors are licensed and undergo hygiene checks, making it generally safe to consume. However, travelers are warned about the intense spiciness of some regional dishes, particularly from Chongqing. The convenience and affordability of public transport, including extensive subway systems and readily available taxis, are praised. The couple also shares humorous observations about passenger behavior on domestic flights, noting a more relaxed approach to rules compared to Western norms. Finally, they recount their adventurous culinary experiences, encouraging an open mind to trying unique foods like sandworm jelly and duck heads, and offer crucial general travel tips, including advice on managing multiple travel cards, the benefits of a credit card, and the non-negotiable importance of comprehensive travel insurance, especially for backpackers. The episode concludes with a look ahead to future travels and a call for viewer engagement on what to film next.
On Tour With Dridgers presents a comprehensive guide to navigating China, packed with practical advice and surprising insights. This episode, filmed from a camper van, delves into 19 essential lessons learned the hard way by the travel couple. They emphasize the critical need for specific apps like WeChat, Alipay, and a reliable VPN, highlighting how essential they are for daily life and internet access. The video also tackles the diminishing role of cash, the reality of the language barrier, and reassures viewers about safety, particularly for solo female travelers. High-speed trains are lauded as a mind-blowing travel experience, and booking platforms like Trip.com are recommended. The importance of getting an eSIM or SIM card upon arrival for constant connectivity is stressed, alongside practical tips for finding toilets and the luxury of smart toilets in hotels. They also touch upon the diverse regions of China, the safety of street food due to strict regulations, and the unique intensity of spicy cuisine. Public transport is praised for its efficiency and affordability, while cultural observations about passenger behavior on flights add a touch of humor. Finally, the couple shares their adventurous culinary experiences, from sandworm jelly to duck heads, encouraging an open mind. The episode concludes with essential travel tips applicable beyond China, including advice on travel cards, credit cards, and comprehensive travel insurance, underscoring their journey of continuous learning and adaptation.
A UK travel couple shares 19 hard-learned lessons for navigating China, covering essential apps, safety, transport, food, and cultural nuances. Essential tips for a smoother trip.
China Travel Guide: Apps, Safety, Food & Transport Tips
3:21 Download essential apps before arriving: WeChat and Alipay for payments and daily use, and a VPN for internet access. These are crucial for navigating China.
4:41 China's internet is heavily restricted. A VPN is non-negotiable for accessing many global platforms and maintaining connectivity. Ensure it works in China before you leave.
6:39 Be prepared for a cashless society. While cash is legal, digital payments via WeChat and Alipay are dominant. Set these up before your trip or upon arrival.
8:04 The language barrier is significant. Utilize translation apps or devices for two-way conversations. Locals are generally willing to help, but communication can still be challenging.
10:44 Experience China's high-speed trains. They are incredibly smooth, efficient, and comfortable, offering a superior travel experience compared to flying. It's a must-do.
12:42 Secure an eSIM or physical SIM card immediately upon arrival for constant data access. This is vital for navigation, communication, and accessing services that require a local number.
14:09 Always carry your own toilet paper, as it's not always provided in public restrooms. Toilets are generally frequent and easy to find, but preparedness is key.
17:59 Street food in China is generally safe due to licensing and hygiene checks. Look for busy vendors frequented by locals to ensure quality and safety.
29:26 Carry multiple travel cards to manage expenses and mitigate loss. Consider separate cards for hotels, spending, and emergencies. Travel insurance is essential and should cover all eventualities.
3:21 Download essential apps before arriving: WeChat and Alipay for payments and daily use, and a VPN for internet access. These are crucial for navigating China.
4:41 China's internet is heavily restricted. A VPN is non-negotiable for accessing many global platforms and maintaining connectivity. Ensure it works in China before you leave.
6:39 Be prepared for a cashless society. While cash is legal, digital payments via WeChat and Alipay are dominant. Set these up before your trip or upon arrival.
8:04 The language barrier is significant. Utilize translation apps or devices for two-way conversations. Locals are generally willing to help, but communication can still be challenging.
10:44 Experience China's high-speed trains. They are incredibly smooth, efficient, and comfortable, offering a superior travel experience compared to flying. It's a must-do.
12:42 Secure an eSIM or physical SIM card immediately upon arrival for constant data access. This is vital for navigation, communication, and accessing services that require a local number.
14:09 Always carry your own toilet paper, as it's not always provided in public restrooms. Toilets are generally frequent and easy to find, but preparedness is key.
17:59 Street food in China is generally safe due to licensing and hygiene checks. Look for busy vendors frequented by locals to ensure quality and safety.
29:26 Carry multiple travel cards to manage expenses and mitigate loss. Consider separate cards for hotels, spending, and emergencies. Travel insurance is essential and should cover all eventualities.
0:10 Introduction to China travel lessons
3:21 Essential China travel apps
4:41 China's internet and VPNs
6:39 Cashless society in China
8:04 Language barrier and translation tools
9:16 Safety for solo female travelers
10:44 High-speed trains experience
12:04 Booking travel with Trip.com
12:42 Importance of SIM cards
13:54 Finding and using toilets
17:33 Regional diversity of China
17:59 Food rules and street food safety
19:17 Spicy food warnings
20:21 Public transport options
22:03 Dealing with stares and selfies
23:12 Food ordering apps convenience
25:26 Domestic flight experiences
27:39 Trying unusual foods
29:26 General travel tips
30:30 Importance of travel insurance
0:10 Introduction to China travel lessons
3:21 Essential China travel apps
4:41 China's internet and VPNs
6:39 Cashless society in China
8:04 Language barrier and translation tools
9:16 Safety for solo female travelers
10:44 High-speed trains experience
12:04 Booking travel with Trip.com
12:42 Importance of SIM cards
13:54 Finding and using toilets
17:33 Regional diversity of China
17:59 Food rules and street food safety
19:17 Spicy food warnings
20:21 Public transport options
22:03 Dealing with stares and selfies
23:12 Food ordering apps convenience
25:26 Domestic flight experiences
27:39 Trying unusual foods
29:26 General travel tips
30:30 Importance of travel insurance
What are the most essential apps for traveling in China?
You absolutely need WeChat and Alipay for payments and daily life, and a VPN to access the internet. A Maps is also a lifesaver for navigation.
Is it safe to travel alone in China, especially for women?
Yes, China is surprisingly safe. There are cameras everywhere, and locals are generally helpful. You'll see many local women traveling alone without issue.
How important is it to have internet access in China?
It's crucial. You need it for everything from ordering taxis to accessing Wi-Fi. Getting an eSIM or SIM card immediately upon arrival is highly recommended.
What should I know about using cash in China?
Be prepared for a cashless society. While cash is legal, almost everyone uses WeChat Pay or Alipay. It's best to set these up.
Are high-speed trains in China worth experiencing?
Absolutely! They are incredibly smooth, fast, and comfortable. Many travelers consider them the best way to get around and a must-do experience.
Is street food safe to eat in China?
Generally, yes. Street vendors in China are licensed and undergo hygiene checks, making it much safer than in some other countries.
What's the deal with toilets in China?
Toilets are frequent, but you should always carry your own toilet paper. Many places have squat toilets, though modern hotels often feature advanced smart toilets.
Should I be prepared to try unusual foods?
Definitely! China offers a wide variety of unique dishes. It's best to have an open mind and try new things, from local delicacies to adventurous options.
What are the key things to remember about travel insurance?
Don't skimp on travel insurance. Ensure it covers your entire trip duration and destinations, including medical emergencies and potential loss of belongings. Some basic insurance might not cover backpacking.
