Top 10 Essential Apps for Business Travelers

Traveling to China for business can be both rewarding and challenging. Between navigating mega-cities, attending trade fairs, and managing cross-border communication, having the right digital tools makes all the difference.

Here are the Top 10 essential apps every business traveler needs in China:

1. WeChat (微信)

The single most important app in China. WeChat is used for messaging, voice/video calls, networking (via QR codes), group chats, and even mobile payments. Instead of business cards, most professionals exchange WeChat contacts. If you are new account, we can help you to vertified your account for free.  We saw some customer are looking for vertifed on upwork.
Best for: Communication, networking, and payments.

2. Alipay (支付宝)

Most businesses in China are cashless. Alipay allows foreigners to link international credit cards or use the Tour Pass feature to top up and pay seamlessly for taxis, meals, and shopping. Most safe payment method, like Paypal, wechat also can make payment, while alipay more strong connect with Alibaba, 1688, taobao.
Best for: Everyday payments and expense management.

3. Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行)

China’s version of Uber or Bolt. Didi offers taxis, private cars, and ride-sharing, with an English interface. Essential for traveling between hotels, trade fairs, and business meetings. While if you want to rent one car, you can download the 神州租车, or 一嗨租车.
Best for: Reliable transportation.

4. Gaode Maps (高德地图) / Baidu Maps (百度地图)

Since Google Maps is restricted, local navigation apps are key. Gaode Maps (Amap) is more user-friendly for foreigners, while Baidu Maps offers extremely detailed local routes.
Best for: Accurate city navigation and public transit info.

5. Trip.com (携程国际版)

A top travel booking platform in China with English support. It’s the easiest way to reserve domestic flights, trains, and hotels, and it accepts international credit cards.
Best for: Booking trains, flights, and hotels inside China.

6. Baidu Translate / Pleco

Language barriers are common in business. Baidu Translate provides instant camera, voice, and text translation. Pleco is an excellent dictionary app for quick word lookups.
Best for: Real-time translation and communication.

7. Meituan (美团)/Ele.me（饿了么）

Known as China’s “super app” for food delivery, restaurants, and local services. When your schedule is tight, Meituan is the fastest way to get meals delivered to your hotel.
Best for: Food delivery and restaurant discovery.

8. VPN App (ExpressVPN, NordVPN, etc.)

Many global apps—such as Gmail, Google Drive, WhatsApp, and LinkedIn—are restricted in China. A reliable VPN ensures you can still access essential business tools securely.
Best for: Staying connected to global services.

9. Currency Converter (XE, Revolut)

For quick conversions while managing expenses.

10. Xiaohongshu (小红书, RED)

China’s lifestyle and product-review platform, often called “China’s Instagram + Yelp.” Great for finding business dinner spots, hotel reviews, or even insights into consumer trends.
Best for: Market research and lifestyle recommendations.

Bonus Apps

Douyin (抖音) → China’s TikTok, useful for understanding local marketing and product trends.

Final Tips

  • Set up apps before arrival: Some require ID verification or linking cards.
  • Have a local SIM or eSIM: Reliable internet makes all apps smoother.
  • Embrace QR codes: From payments to adding contacts, QR codes are central in China’s digital ecosystem.

With these apps, business travel in China becomes far more efficient, allowing you to focus on building partnerships and opportunities.