Shopping & Daily Life in China
The small things that make a trip easier: buying online, storing bags, renting a power bank, doing laundry and finding a toilet.
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All shopping & daily life guides
- China Power Adapter: Plug Types, 220V and Who Needs OneChina uses plug types A, C and I at 220V 50Hz. UK, India and South Africa travelers need an adapter. Check your device label for 100-240V first.
- Wangfujing Street Beijing: Shopping Guide for 2026Wangfujing Street is Beijing's main pedestrian shopping street, reached by Metro Line 1 or 8. Stores, old brands, food, hours and bargaining.
- China Power Bank Rules on Flights and Trains (3C, 100Wh)Domestic flights in China need a clear 3C mark and 100Wh or less; trains allow up to 100Wh. Full rules and what the 31 May 2026 CCC change means for you.
- JD vs Taobao for Foreigners: Which Is Better in China?JD wins on authenticity, speed and returns. Taobao wins on price, variety and now has an English mode in some regions. Pick by what you are buying.
- Shipping Your Stuff Home: Mailing Parcels from ChinaSkip excess baggage fees: compare China Post, SF Express, and DHL for shipping souvenirs and luggage home, and how to handle customs forms.
- Laundry in China: Hotels, Laundromats, Same-Day (2026)How to do laundry while traveling in China: hotel services, self-service laundromats, laundry apps, and tips for long-term travelers.
- A Parent’s Guide to Baby Formula & Diapers in ChinaFor expat parents in China: A guide to finding safe, imported baby formula (Aptamil, Nutrilon) and deciphering local vs. international diaper brands (Pampers).
- The 72-Hour Tailor: Custom Suit or Qipao in ShanghaiA time-crunched guide to a custom suit or qipao in just 3 days at Shanghai's famous fabric markets. Covers negotiation, fittings, and pricing.
- Beyond the Hotel Gym: A Foreigner's Guide to Fitness in ChinaHow to stay fit in China. A guide to getting a gym day pass, finding yoga or CrossFit classes, and embracing public park workouts and "square dancing."
- The Tall Person’s Survival Guide to Shopping in ChinaStruggling to find clothes, shoes, or even bedsheets that fit in China? This guide covers where to buy large-size shoes (US 12+), and tall-size clothing.
- Can I Use My Laptop in China? Power and Voltage GuideWill your laptop work with Chinese power? Voltage, plug types, adapters needed, and protecting your electronics in China.