Tea house invitations and other friendly scams to spot

What you need before you fly

China is exceptionally convenient once your payment and connectivity basics are in place. Complete these steps at home while you can still receive verification messages without friction.

1. Download the relevant app from your usual app store.
2. Add an eligible Visa or Mastercard and complete the identity check.
3. Save a screenshot of your passport and a backup card securely.

At the counter: what to say

If it doesn't work

Don't panic. Ask to try again, switch to your backup card, or use a larger merchant. Keeping a small amount of cash is a sensible fallback for the first 24 hours.