When to fly
Fly for long distances (Beijing–Urumqi, Shanghai–Chengdu) or when rail is not direct. For city pairs under 4–5 hours by high-speed rail, the train is usually faster door-to-door and less prone to delays.
Booking and baggage
Book with the airline or a reputable platform using your passport name. Low-cost carriers charge for checked bags; full-service carriers include a allowance that varies by fare class. Check the baggage rules before buying. Keep lithium batteries in cabin baggage.
Airports and delays
Major airports are large; arrive 2 hours before domestic flights. Weather, air-traffic control and military exercises can cause delays. Keep a buffer before international connections. Use the airline app for gate changes.
Reality check
A 2-hour flight can become a 6-hour day with delays and airport transfers; compare door-to-door time.
Local tip: Keep batteries in cabin baggage and check the terminal.
Step by step
- Compare train vs flight door-to-door.
- Book with passport name.
- Check baggage allowance and terminal.
- Arrive 2 hours early.
- Keep batteries in cabin bag.
- Track the flight and leave a buffer.
Typical costs
| Item | Cost / note |
|---|---|
| Domestic flight | US$50–250 |
| Checked bag | US$0–30 |
| Airport transfer | US$5–30 |
Prices are indicative and change. Confirm with the official provider before paying.
Documents to prepare
- Passport
- Booking reference
- Baggage rules
Common mistakes
- Tight connection after a delay
- Overweight baggage
- Wrong airport/terminal
- Batteries in checked bags
If things go wrong
- If delayed, use the airline app and keep receipts for meals/hotel.
- If baggage is lost, file before leaving the arrival hall.
FAQ
Can I use my foreign ID?
Use your passport, exactly as booked.
Are delays common?
Weather and air-traffic delays happen; build in buffer time for international connections.
Getting around: the field guide
China’s transport is fast and punctual, but the stations are huge. The main skill is leaving enough time and knowing exactly which station, terminal or exit you need.
Book the right mode
For city pairs under 4–5 hours, high-speed rail usually beats flying door-to-door. For long distances or routes without direct rail, fly. Overnight trains save a hotel night but are slower; book a sleeper, not a hard seat.
Stations and airports
Check the station name in Chinese, not just the city. Shanghai has several stations; Beijing’s airports are far apart. Arrive 45–60 minutes early for rail and 2 hours for domestic flights. Keep your passport with you; it is your ticket on many rail routes.
Local trips
Use the metro for predictable journeys and DiDi for door-to-door trips with luggage or at night. Avoid unlicensed touts. At big stations, follow the numbered exits; the wrong exit can add a 15-minute walk. For bikes, use designated lanes and park legally.
Quick checks
- Station/terminal name in Chinese
- Ticket or e-ticket saved offline
- Arrival buffer built in
- Metro exit number noted
- Official taxi/DiDi only
Printable checklist
Print this page or save it as a PDF. Tick each item before you go.
- Passport
- Booking reference
- Baggage rules
- Compare train vs flight door-to-door.
- Book with passport name.
- Check baggage allowance and terminal.
- Arrive 2 hours early.
- Keep batteries in cabin bag.
- Track the flight and leave a buffer.
This guide is a practical summary, not an official or legal document. Rules and prices change. Use the official links below, and confirm with the relevant authority or a qualified professional.
Last verified 2026-10-29. China Handbook is independent and not affiliated with any government. Information is provided for general guidance only.