Most seasoned travelers will agree that traveling around China can be a bit different than what they are used to. It is not always as easy and simple as it would be in most other places around the world. For those who regularly take to the skies, most airports quickly develop a familiar feeling. The languages being spoken may differ, but the check-in counters are in their usual place, the lines at security checkpoints are still long, and your air hostess will still run through pre-flight safety reminders once you are on board. China, however, can offer a few differences you are unlikely to face elsewhere. Knowing some useful air travel tips for China before your trip can save you time and hassle.
1. Check Your Luggage Weight Limit
Something most travelers always have high on their list. Seems simple enough, right? What many first-time travelers to China forget is that the luggage weight limit for domestic trips differs from that of the limits they had on their international flight. Domestic flights only allow 20 kgs (about 45 lbs) per person, whilst international flights usually allow 30 kgs (66 lbs) per person. One of the most useful air travel tips for China to remember, and a potentially costly detail to forget.
If you are arriving on an international flight and then connecting to a domestic one from cities like Beijing or Shanghai, double-check your allowance in advance and consider booking a larger vehicle through an hourly hire car service if you are carrying samples, equipment, or extra luggage.
2. Expect Flight Delays and Prepare for Them
A familiar pain for those accustomed to air travel, especially in China. If you are planning on traveling by air, it is best to expect delays on your trip. According to published figures, less than 60% of China’s domestic flights depart on time. Hangzhou airport only sees 42% of its flights depart on time, one of the worst figures globally. Savvy travelers to China usually pack an extra set of clothes in their carry-on luggage, in case they are caught by delays that leave them in a hotel for an extra night.
If you are landing late at airports such as Guangzhou Baiyun Airport or Shenzhen Baoan Airport, it is smart to pre-arrange your airport transfer so a driver is still waiting for you even if your flight schedule changes.
You may want to consider booking a private car. Affordable and vastly flexible and convenient, a professional car service lets you enjoy the start of your trip comfortably with peace of mind.
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3. Avoid Airline Food
In fairness, this is one of the air travel tips for China that could easily apply to many countries around the world. On the whole, airline food has improved in recent years, but it still remains a smart choice to avoid it where you can. Most people have stories of themselves, friends, colleagues, or family members who have suffered at the hands of a suspect airline meal. If you are traveling on business, the last thing you will want is to fall ill upon your arrival and jeopardize any business interests you have in China.
A better option is to eat before your flight or plan a meal shortly after landing in major cities like Shanghai or Hong Kong, where your driver from Asia Car Service airport transfers can take you directly to your hotel or a recommended restaurant area.
4. Be Prepared With Your Phone
As with every country, China prohibits the use of cell phones on board the aircraft. Until the flight is at cruising altitude, and even then, the device should be in flight mode. Once you land, however, it is best to be prepared. Chinese airports are still fairly restrictive with WiFi use. Not every airport has it, and those which do often require text verification codes to access their networks. This means your number will have to be enabled to receive text messages in China, which could incur additional costs from your carrier.
Another very important point to remember is that China heavily censors its internet traffic. Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Gmail, and many other of your go-to apps will need VPNs installed on your device to access. Before landing at airports like Beijing Capital International Airport or Shanghai Pudong Airport, save your hotel address and your transfer booking details as screenshots so you can show them to staff or your driver even without an internet connection.
5. Buying China Flight Tickets
Buying tickets for traveling around China can be tricky. Most travelers find their tickets online with international travel sites. While convenient, the prices offered on international sites and agencies will often differ from what you can find on local Chinese travel sites. Expats residing in China and locals traveling frequently have learned that tickets are usually at their cheapest between one and two months prior to departure.
If your flight is delayed, arranging a car service to provide your airport transfer will save you the stress and hassle of trying to find last-minute transportation. For frequent business travel across multiple cities, you can also coordinate multi-stop journeys through Asia Car Service corporate services. Safe travels.
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