Payment readiness means fallback readiness
Mobile payments are common, but travelers should still carry a small cash reserve and at least one card that can work for hotels, deposits, or emergency purchases.
Payment backup kit
- Notify your bank or confirm travel controls in the bank app.
- Carry a card from a major network if available.
- Keep a small amount of RMB cash for backup situations.
- Store card issuer phone numbers outside the wallet.
- Know where your hotel can help with cash, taxis, or payment troubleshooting.
