Officially known as the People’s Republic of China (PRC), China is the largest country in the world in terms of population, and one of the largest in the world in terms of area. The country spans five time zones, and includes topography ranging from subtropical forests to arid deserts.
Home to major cities such as Beijing and Shanghai, China is the third-most visited country in the world, with something to offer nearly any tourist or visitor.
If you’ve been planning a trip to China, learn what you need to know about travel medical insurance or travel insurance, and discover the best places to visit and how to stay safe on your journey.
Travel Medical Insurance for Travelers in China – FAQs
Healthcare in China is not cheap. As a tourist, most hospitals will expect you to pay in cash in advance before they will provide you with treatment. To receive necessary treatment for illnesses or injuries while visiting China, it is essential that you have travel medical insurance to shield your finances.
Do I need travel medical insurance for China?
While it is not typically required for you to have travel medical insurance as a tourist visiting China, no prepared traveler should go without it. Travel medical insurance can save you a significant amount of money if you require medical treatment abroad, where your domestic health insurance is unlikely to provide sufficient coverage, if any coverage at all. It is simply not worth the risk to your health or your bank account to go without travel medical insurance coverage.
Why buy travel medical insurance before traveling to China?
People get sick or hurt every day. This is inconvenient when it happens at home, but it can be life-threatening when it happens in a foreign country.
Remember, many hospitals in China will not treat tourists unless you provide payment upfront. The only way to get reimbursed for those big medical bills is by having a proper China travel health insurance plan.
Trip Cancellation Insurance for Travelers in China – FAQs
For some, traveling to China will mean a flight – or maybe several flights – halfway around the world. It’s a long journey, at significant expense. But have you considered what would happen if you were unable to take your trip?
If you think you can simply get a refund for the flights you’ve already paid for or hotels you’ve already booked, think again. Most of these prepaid charges are nonrefundable. Therefore, the only way to protect your China travel investment is with trip cancellation insurance.
Why should I get trip cancellation insurance for my China travel?
Life is unpredictable. You could become seriously sick just before your China trip and be unable to travel. You could also suffer a family emergency, or a natural disaster could strike. In any case, going to China could be impossible, and you would have no choice but to cancel your trip.
With trip cancellation insurance, you can be reimbursed for your prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses if you are unable to take your trip to China for a covered reason. It allows you to plan a long-distance journey with less worry about the unexpected.
What can be covered by trip cancellation insurance for China?
The main component of any travel insurance plan is trip cancellation coverage. However, a China travel insurance policy can go far beyond that. When shopping for a plan, look for one with the following additional coverages:
- Trip interruption – in case your trip hits a speedbump that requires you to pause it
- Travel delay – for if you incur additional covered expenses due to delays during your trip
- Lost or delayed baggage – to help you cover necessities
- Emergency medical coverage – for if you get sick or hurt during the trip
- Cancel for any reason coverage – if you need the flexibility to cancel your trip for reasons not covered by a standard travel insurance policy
China’s Most Popular Cities for Travel
Beijing
China’s cosmopolitan capital city is home to major tourist attractions such as the Great Wall of China, the Summer Palace, and the Forbidden City. If you’re traveling with kids or are a nature enthusiast, the Beijing Zoo is sure to delight with over 5,000 different species from every corner of the globe.
Shanghai
The largest city in China is a global financial hub that beckons visitors from around the world. Top tourist attractions in Shanghai include the Shanghai Museum with its more than 130,000 works, the cornucopia of different architectural styles on the Huangpu River known as The Bund, and Yu Garden, which is one of the most renowned classical gardens in all of China.
Hangzhou
There’s a reason Marco Polo once referred to Hangzhou as the most beautiful city in the world. From the serene waters of West Lake to the scenic beauty and incredible history of Lingyin Temple, Hangzhou has much to see. Don’t forget to take a trip to Fei Lai Feng while visiting. Its 300+ hand-carved Buddha statues are sure to amaze.
Chongqing
Overlooked by the Daba and Wu Mountains, Chongqing is one of China’s most popular tourist destinations. With experiences such as Wulong Karst National Geology Park, Three Gorges Museum, and Fengdu Ghost City to explore, it’s easy to see why. Chongqing provides the perfect mix of cutting-edge modernity and natural beauty.
Xiamen
Looking for a relaxed, or even a romantic getaway in China? Xiamen has you covered. You can take your significant other on the shopping spree of their life on Zhongshan Road, and follow it up with a late dinner on the Taiwan Snack Street. For a little time away, enjoy a drive on the 43-kilometer Island Ring Road with its Instagram-worthy coastline views.
Key Guidelines for Travelers in China
As a large country full of diverse landscapes, the specific guidelines for visiting China will largely depend upon where you travel. However, there are a few general tips you should keep in mind, such as:
Petty Theft
Pickpockets and small-time crooks are the scourge of tourists around the globe, and China is no exception. In busy tourist areas specifically, never leave your valuables unattended. For maximum security, carry your cash and cards in a money belt, instead of a wallet or purse. Also, carry only the cash you need for the day. Leave unnecessary items securely locked in your hotel safe.
Drinking Water
Throughout most of China, water from taps, faucets, and showers is not considered safe for consumption, and may cause illness. You may even see signs in your hotel bathroom warning you not to drink the water. To avoid the risk, stick to bottled water at all times.
Currency Exchange Scams
If you’re approached by someone offering to exchange your currency for Chinese yuan, kindly decline, as this is almost assuredly a scam, and you’re likely to receive counterfeit bills. Only exchange currency at official businesses or banks to avoid being ripped off.
Before You Travel to China – Do This
- While in China, carry your passport with you all the times - the authorities may demand it of you at any time.
- Keep an eye on the weather. Coastal locations in China can experience typhoons and tropical storms. Follow the direction of local authorities to stay safe.
- Buy appropriate insurance. Travel medical insurance or travel insurance is an essential component of your Chinese trip to protect your finances in case of the unexpected.