Credit cards and/or Cash in China

[carolinatennisgirl]

We are so excited about our August Adventure! I have heard several stories about not using credit or ATM cards in China for fear of data breach. Did you purchase yuan at your US bank prior to the trip, or have any issues using your credit cards?

 

[sayhello]

I had about $100 USD worth of a mix of HK dollars and Yuan when I arrived (I always do that, just to be on the safe side) but most everything I did, I used credit cards. And I used my ATM card to get Yuan at a bank-connected ATM to tip our Chinese Adventure Guide. I had no issue with either. Is there a particular issue currently about data breaches in China? I've used credit cards and my ATM card abroad for years and have never had an issue.

You are going to *love* the China ABD! It is such an amazing trip!! Enjoy!

Sayhello

 

[NashSmartGuy]

I've not had any issues with credit card use in China. I always notify my credit card companies in advance before I travel internationally. The only exception is American Express, as they don't require advance notification (but may not be widely accepted in some areas). Credit cards do have security features built in. I only use my debit card at ATMs and not to make purchases.

You can always get cash at the airport ATM upon arrival. I was there a couple weeks ago, and found that you do need cash for taxis (just to be safe). I was in a taxi that had a window sticker indicating that they accepted ApplePay and credit cards, but the driver wouldn't accept anything except cash.

 

[cschaaf]

We did a China trip two summers ago and didn't have any issues.

As others have said, I informed my credit card companies of our travel dates - many of the major CC issuers allow you to do that online now which makes it so much easier.

We used our CC for a few larger purchases (we were with Viking, but my wife and I stepped away from their tour to go to Shanghai Disneyland. Used the CC there for a few tings), but mostly used cash.

For the cash, I opened a "no ATM fee" checking account that I loaded with some USD.

In China, I used ATMs at the hotels. Those gave you large bills then you could go to the front desk of the hotel and have them break it into smaller bills. When the trip was over, I took all but a few dollars out of the Fidelity account. I still have it open and will re-load it and follow the same plan for any future international trips.

Just be smart about the ATMs that you use and the places you give your CC. Use ATMs that are attached to a bank or reputable place of business. Don't hand your CC to someone for them to walk away with.