◆Identity Documents
When traveling abroad, make it a habit to carry your identity documents with you at all times. In case of emergencies, having clear identification is one of the basic conditions for obtaining timely and effective assistance, and also a fundamental requirement for subsequent claims and relief procedures.
◆Types of Documents
Identity documents to carry while overseas include your passport, travel document, local residence permit, work permit, social insurance card, etc. In many cases, your domestic resident ID card can also help Chinese embassies and consulates abroad confirm your identity.
◆Personal Information Card
If you plan to stay abroad for an extended period and there is no local requirement for foreigners to carry their passports at all times, to avoid loss, it is recommended that you photocopy the information page of your passport. Write the name, address, and phone number of your emergency contact on the back of the copy, then laminate this page to create a “personal information card.” Carry one copy with you at all times, and leave another with your immediate family in China for emergencies.
Pre-Travel Recommendations
◆Purchase Insurance
The likelihood of unexpected situations increases while traveling abroad, and medical and other costs overseas are generally high. It is advisable to purchase necessary personal accident and medical insurance before your trip and during your stay overseas, just in case. Also, inform your family of your insurance details in a timely manner.
Pre-Travel Reminders
◆Understand the Destination Country
Learn as much as possible about the destination country, including local customs, climate, security conditions, AIDS and epidemic disease situations, customs regulations (such as restrictions on food, animal and plant products, and foreign currency), and take necessary measures or precautions for any prominent issues.
◆Vaccinations
Get necessary vaccinations according to the disease situation in the destination country, and carry your vaccination certificate (commonly known as the “yellow book”) with you for inspection when entering the country.
◆Check Your Documents
Check the validity of your passport (the remaining validity should be more than one year), the number of blank pages (should have two or more blank pages), ensure you have obtained the entry visa for your destination country and transit visas for any stopover countries, determine if you need to carry the “yellow book,” and verify the name, date, and location on your air (train, ship) ticket to avoid travel disruptions due to document issues.
◆Prepare for Emergencies
Carry the “Guide to Consular Protection and Assistance for Chinese Nationals,” this “Common Sense” guide, and related pamphlets. Carefully read the travel advisories and safety knowledge, find out how to contact the Chinese embassy or consulate in the destination country, try to avoid risks while traveling, and ensure you can contact for help promptly in emergencies.
◆Carry Minimal Cash
Try to avoid carrying large amounts of cash when traveling. It is recommended to carry and use bank cards. For example, UnionPay cards are now accepted in many countries worldwide. Check before departure to facilitate your trip.
If you must carry a large amount of cash, take proper security precautions. You must declare it to customs upon entry and exit as required, and also pay attention to the foreign exchange restrictions of the destination country.
◆Do Not Carry Prohibited Items
It is strictly prohibited to carry drugs, internationally banned goods, protected animal and plant products, or other items forbidden in the destination country.
Do not carry luggage or items for strangers to avoid unknowingly transporting prohibited items and facing legal trouble.
◆Be Cautious with Medications
Be cautious when selecting personal items to bring, and choose the types and quantities of medications within the limits allowed by customs regulations.
When carrying special medications for your own condition, it is recommended to also bring the doctor’s prescription, the medication’s instructions in a foreign language, and the purchase receipt.
◆Comply with Inspections
Your purpose for visiting the destination country should align with the type of visa you have applied for. Upon entry, please actively cooperate with the immigration authorities of the destination country, truthfully explaining your situation. When communicating, remain calm and rational, avoid any extreme words or actions, and do not offer money to officials, as this may put you at a disadvantage.
◆Be Cautious About Signing
If you encounter special inspections upon entering a country and do not understand the local language, never nod in agreement or sign documents casually. You may immediately request an interpreter or ask a friend or relative to help translate. If asked to sign a document, ask for a Chinese version, read it carefully, and then make your decision.
◆Entry Norms
If a country has doubts about your entry intent, length of stay, number of entries, etc., even if you have obtained a visa for that country, it has the right to deny you entry without providing a reason.
◆Protect Your Rights
If you are denied entry to a country, while waiting for the country to arrange suitable transportation for your return, you should request humane treatment and ensure basic rights such as food and rest. Otherwise, you should immediately ask to contact the Chinese embassy or consulate in that country.
◆Stay in Touch with Family
During your trip, keep in touch with family and friends, and update them regularly on your travel itinerary and contact information.
While traveling or staying abroad, use various methods such as phone calls, emails, and text messages to maintain regular contact with family and friends.
Travel Safety
◆Manage Your Belongings
Do not flaunt wealth or show off valuables.
If using public transportation, prepare small change in advance.
Do not carry large amounts of cash or valuables with you, nor keep them at your accommodation.
It is best to use ATMs during the daytime in crowded areas, and preferably with a friend nearby when withdrawing money.
If you receive a large amount of cash due to business dealings or other reasons, it is recommended to deposit it in the bank immediately.
◆Keep Your Documents Safe
If you lose your bank card, report it to the police immediately and call your issuing bank to verbally block the card. Complete the formal written procedures for the loss report after returning to China.
◆Drive Safely
When parking at night, choose well-lit areas with heavy traffic.
Before approaching your parked car, look around to check for anyone hiding, have your car keys ready in advance, and inspect the interior before getting in. If everything seems normal, get in quickly.
Remember to lock the car doors and fasten your seatbelt after getting in.
Do not leave handbags or other valuables in plain sight inside the car when getting out, to prevent window smashing and theft.
◆Cooperate with Police
If stopped and inspected by local police, stop immediately, keep your hands where the police can see them, and avoid trying to run away or making sudden movements. Ask the police to show their identification to confirm their identity, then cooperate with the inspection and questioning.
◆Respect Local Customs
Dress appropriately and respect local customs. In Muslim countries, women must not wear revealing clothing, and should avoid overly tight, sheer, or skimpy outfits.
◆Guard Against Extortion
• If you encounter police attempting to extort money under the pretext of an inspection, remember their badge number, police ID, and patrol car number, and try to identify witnesses. Report the incident to local authorities and the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate as soon as possible.
• Traveling in Groups
It’s best to go out for sightseeing or shopping with others. Be especially cautious and travel with companions when going to other places, swimming, walking at night, fishing or playing in the sea.
• Sit with Others
When using public transportation, try to sit with other passengers or near security personnel, or choose a seat close to the driver.
Avoid sitting alone in empty train cars, and try not to sit in less crowded areas near the back door.
Try to avoid getting off or waiting at isolated bus stops.
• Prevent Drowning
Swim only in certified pools or beaches with lifeguards on duty, and avoid swimming in the wild on a whim.
Do not swim during thunderstorms or in rough water.
If boating or rafting alone, carry complete safety equipment including life jackets and communication devices, and avoid venturing into unfamiliar waters alone.
When taking boats or rafts, follow water safety rules, know how to use life-saving equipment, and listen to the instructions of safety personnel.
• Take Note of Features
If you notice anything suspicious while traveling, pay attention to identifiable details of your surroundings such as the location, terrain, vehicles, people’s behavior, and clothing. These can help the police catch criminals in case of an incident.
• Beware of Motorbike Thieves
Walk on sidewalks and avoid getting too close to motor vehicle lanes.
When carrying items (like backpacks or shoulder bags), keep them on the side of your body away from the traffic.
In countries or regions where motorcycles are common, be vigilant against snatch-and-run thefts. If targeted, do not resist forcefully to avoid getting hurt.
• Follow Rules
Use crosswalks, pedestrian overpasses, or underground passages when crossing streets.
When using crosswalks, obey traffic signals and cross quickly only when it is safe.
In countries with left-hand traffic (such as the UK, Australia, Japan, etc.), adjust your walking habits accordingly to stay safe.
Do not cross the street while looking at a map.
• Reduce Night Travel
Stay away from secluded alleys and dark underpasses. When walking at night, choose well-lit roads.
Try to avoid walking alone late at night, especially not on a regular schedule that could make you predictable.
• Choose Venues Carefully
Avoid disreputable entertainment venues such as bars, clubs, karaoke halls, billiard rooms, or internet cafes.
• Be Cautious with Strangers
Do not accept rides from strangers, offer to guide strangers yourself, follow guidance from strangers, or travel with people you don’t know well.
Avoid strangers on the street who offer you services unsolicited, and do not consume food or drinks offered by unfamiliar people.