In China, physical cash has almost disappeared from daily life. Restaurants, subways, neighborhood shops, and even street vendors prefer QR codes. For first-time tourists, this changes the planning — but it doesn’t have to be complicated.
With a few steps done while still in Brazil and quick adjustments upon arrival, Alipay and WeChat Pay can handle the entire routine. Below is a concise checklist of what really makes a difference on a first trip.
1) Prepare the apps before leaving home
Installing and setting up Alipay and WeChat Pay in advance saves time when you need it most: at your first meal or during the trip from the airport.
- Download both apps while still in Brazil and keep them updated. - Create an account with an active phone number (SMS verification is common). - Set the language to English; it makes menus and confirmations easier.
Practical tip
Even if you plan to use only one app, it’s worth having both installed. Some establishments accept only one of them, especially outside the most touristy areas.
2) Link a compatible international card
Today, both apps allow you to link international cards, which covers most everyday purchases.
- Use an international credit card enabled for overseas purchases. - Complete the identity verification requested in the app (photos of your ID and card). - Test a small payment as soon as possible.
What to expect in daily use
Payments are usually instant. The amount appears in the local currency, and the conversion shows up on your card statement. For small purchases, the process is quick; for higher amounts, there may be an extra confirmation on your phone.
3) Adjust limits and security in the app
Before traveling, it’s worth reviewing basic controls to avoid blocks in the middle of your trip.
- Check daily and per-transaction payment limits. - Enable a password or biometrics for each payment. - Keep notifications on to track spending.
These adjustments reduce surprises and help identify any issues early in the trip.
Where Alipay and WeChat Pay work best
For daily logistics, both apps cover almost everything:
- Urban transportation (subway, buses, shared bikes). - Restaurants, cafés, and convenience store chains. - Shops, local markets, and tourist attractions.
In international hotels, physical cards are still accepted, but in the rest of the city, QR codes dominate.
Having a plan B is still worth it
Even with digital payments working, it’s wise to have alternatives.
- Carry a small amount of cash for emergencies. - Keep a physical card separate from your phone. - Write down the hotel address on paper to ask for help if needed.
Small habits that make daily life easier
- Open the app before reaching the cashier to save time. - Check whether the merchant scans your code or if you need to scan theirs. - Keep your phone charged — a power bank is not a luxury.
With these three essential steps and a few simple precautions, payments stop being an obstacle and become a natural part of daily life in China, even on a first trip.
Comments
Comments are public and the sole responsibility of the author. Don’t share personal data. We may store technical signals (e.g. IP hash) to reduce spam and remove abusive, illegal, or off-topic content.