China is an amazing place to visit, offering diverse culture, rich history, and a vibrant atmosphere in both rural villages and massive cities. However, just like traveling anywhere else, it’s important to stay smart about your health and safety. Below you’ll find tips on how to stay healthy during your trip and safety precautions that you should keep in mind.
Stay Healthy While Traveling in China
When traveling, your health should always be a priority. China is generally safe, but like traveling anywhere, no place is completely risk-free. You’ll want to be prepared and informed.
Recommended Vaccinations
Before heading to China, it’s smart to check with your doctor or a travel clinic for updated vaccination recommendations. Some common vaccinations recommended for travelers include:
- Tetanus/diphtheria: Make sure your booster is up to date.
- Hepatitis A: The virus can be found in food and water in parts of China.
- Typhoid: This is another food and water-borne illness. An oral or injectable vaccine will help protect you.
- Hepatitis B: Vaccination is recommended if you’re at risk due to work, medical concerns, or sexual contact in China.
- Japanese encephalitis: If you plan to travel through rural areas for an extended time, especially during the summer, consider this one.
- Rabies: Although not widespread, if you’ll be spending time in rural areas or come into close contact with animals, this vaccine may be worth it.
- COVID-19: Depending on the most current guidelines and your own situation, make sure you’re up to date on vaccinations.
Staying Hydrated
The tap water in China is not safe to drink. Always buy bottled water or boil tap water before drinking. Most guesthouses and hotels will provide boiled water or an electric kettle. It’s also a good idea to keep your own filtration bottle if you’re heading to rural areas.
Avoiding Food Poisoning
Street food is delicious in China, but to avoid food poisoning stick to places that appear clean and busy (more turnover usually means fresher food).
Pay attention to how your food is stored and cooked. Hot and fully cooked is best. Use bottled water or bring your own cutlery to avoid contamination.
Dealing with Air Pollution
Air pollution in some Chinese cities, like Beijing or Shanghai, may pose a problem, especially if you have pre-existing conditions like asthma or other respiratory illnesses. Check air quality apps daily to see the pollution levels.
If the pollution is bad, try to avoid outdoor activities. Stay indoors and use air purifiers if available. A mask, especially an N95, can be helpful on rough days.
Medical Emergencies
In case of a medical emergency, it’s important to know the local health care options. China has many international standard hospitals and clinics, especially in major cities. Most doctors in larger hospitals speak English, but this may not be the case in rural areas.
Carry a first-aid kit, especially if you plan to visit rural or remote areas. Sunburn, cuts, and food poisoning are common health issues that a basic kit can help manage on the fly.
Emergency Contacts in China
China has different emergency numbers depending on the type of emergency you’re facing. Here are the most important ones to know:
- Police: 110
- Fire: 119
- Ambulance: 120
- Traffic Accident: 122
Note that English-speaking operators do not manage all these services, especially in rural locations. It’s good to have someone local or your hotel’s front desk assist you if possible.
Stay Safe in Urban Areas
China’s big cities are generally very safe, but like anywhere else, you need to be aware and cautious.
Watch Out for Scams
Some popular tourist destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an may have scam artists targeting tourists. One common scam is the “tea house” scam, where someone invites you for tea only to stick you with an overpriced bill later. Always be cautious when strangers approach you for seemingly friendly activities.
Another common scam is fake ticket sales, especially near tourist attractions. It’s always better to buy your tickets directly at official ticket counters or from trusted sources.
Take Care of Your Belongings
Pickpocketing can happen in crowded locations such as markets, bus stops, or tourist attractions. Keep your valuables secure by wearing money belts or locking items in a hotel safe. If you use a backpack, ensure it is zipped and kept by your side or in front when in crowded areas.
Avoid using your phone or wallet openly in crowded areas. If something feels wrong, leave the situation quickly.
Transportation Safety in Cities
Taxis and ride-sharing apps like DiDi are common in China. Always make sure your taxi is using the meter. Do not accept unlicensed taxi rides. For DiDi, always check the car’s license plates before hopping in.
In bigger cities, the subway system is usually safe, clean, and efficient. However, it can be quite crowded during rush hours. Be mindful of your belongings, and know that English signage is present in most subway systems.
Dealing with Traffic
In cities, traffic can be chaotic. Pedestrian right-of-way is not always respected. When crossing the street, use crosswalks and be vigilant, especially of scooters and motorbikes that may weave in and out without notice.
Stay Safe in Rural Areas
Prepare For Limited Connectivity
Once out of the major cities, you might find patchy mobile reception or wifi service. It’s a good idea to have any maps or important information (like your accommodation) downloaded offline before venturing too far.
If you intend to go hiking or visit remote areas, make sure someone knows where you are. Leave a copy of your planned route with your hotel or a friend, and have an emergency plan in case you get lost.
Wildlife and Insects
In the countryside, you may encounter unpredictable wildlife, such as stray dogs. If you’re bitten, seek medical care immediately to avoid issues such as rabies.
In certain parts of southern China, mosquitoes can be a concern, especially during the warmer months. To prevent bites, use bug spray and wear long sleeves and pants in the evenings.
Medical Care in Rural Areas
Health services in rural areas may be harder to come by, and doctors may not speak English. You may want to carry a translation app or a phrasebook for emergencies. If a serious emergency occurs, it might be necessary to travel to the nearest big city for appropriate medical care.
Some rural hospitals may request cash upfront for emergencies. Make sure you have cash on hand just in case.
Additional Safety Tips
Stay Connected
Many popular social media platforms like Facebook and Google-based services are blocked in China. A local Chinese SIM card and a VPN (Virtual Private Network) will help you access services from your home country.
Make sure your phone is unlocked so that you can use a local SIM. Alternatively, you can rent a pocket wifi device that can help keep you connected no matter where you are.
Handle Your Money Smartly
ATMs are widely available in cities, but always use those from reputable banks. It’s smart to link your WeChat or Alipay account to make everyday purchases seamlessly since cash is becoming less common in urban areas.
If heading out of major city centers, bring enough cash. Most rural areas still heavily rely on it, and credit card acceptance can be limited outside main tourist attractions.
Respect Local Laws and Customs
While crime in China is low, Chinese laws can be strict. Avoid protests or large gatherings and stay away from sensitive political topics online (or in public). Simple common sense goes a long way.
Always carry a copy of your passport. You might be asked for it at hotels or some security checkpoints. Keep your original passport in a secure place.
Conclusion
China is a safe and exciting place to visit for travelers as long as they take proper precautions. With a focus on your health and safety, you’ll be able to fully enjoy your time exploring everything the country has to offer.
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