Tourists Need A Mobile Wallet Set Up Before Visiting This Country
By Mina Elwell
VACATIONS
In China, mobile payments dominate, accounting for 86% of in-store purchases according to a 2019 Consumer Insights Survey, with the trend moving towards a nearly cashless society.
Therefore, if you're planning a trip to China, it's crucial to set up a mobile wallet like WeChat Pay or Alipay so you can scan QR codes and pay for products and services.
Previously, using these apps required a Chinese bank account, but from summer 2023, tourists with international credit cards like Visa, Mastercard, and Discover can also use them.
To set up Alipay, you need to download the app, register with your email or phone number, create a nickname and password, and verify your identity with a passport or ID.
Then, you can add your credit card to Alipay. However, you may still occasionally have trouble paying with foreign bank cards, so it's advisable to carry some cash as a backup.