Travel Hacks for Frequent Flyers in Shenzhen, China
1. Use Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport's VIP Lounges
Enjoy a peaceful environment with complimentary snacks and drinks before your flight.
- Membership: Some lounges require memberships like Priority Pass.
- Opening Hours: Check lounge hours as some operate 24/7, but others have limited hours.
- Amenities: Confirm available amenities, such as showers or comfortable seating.
2. Pre-book High-Speed Train Tickets
Save time by pre-booking your high-speed train tickets online to travel swiftly between Shenzhen and nearby cities.
- Booking Platforms: Use reliable platforms like Ctrip or Trip.com.
- Seat Selection: Choose your preferred seat type when booking.
- Language: Check if the booking platform offers service in your language.
3. Purchase a Shenzhen Tong Card
This transportation card allows hassle-free bus and metro rides throughout Shenzhen.
- Reloading: Ensure you can easily reload the card at metro stations.
- Validity: Check if the card can be used in other cities too.
- Refund Policy: Familiarize yourself with any refund options for unused balance.
4. Stay at Hotels with Airport Shuttle Service
Many Shenzhen hotels offer free shuttles to the airport, saving on taxi fares.
- Shuttle Schedule: Investigate shuttle timings to sync with flight schedules.
- Reservation: Book your shuttle in advance if necessary.
- Additional Fees: Confirm if the shuttle is complimentary or has a cost.
5. Utilize In-City Check-in Points
Some local transport hubs offer in-city check-in for international flights, saving time at the airport.
- Airline Availability: Verify if your airline participates in this service.
- Baggage Checks: Understand how baggage is handled post check-in.
- Location: Find the nearest in-city check-in point to your accommodation.
6. Leverage the WeChat App
WeChat offers a seamless way to make payments, book tickets, and communicate in Shenzhen.
- Language Support: Check for language options within the app.
- Payment Linking: Link your credit card for easy transactions.
- Features: Explore other features such as messaging and news.
7. Download Offline Maps of Shenzhen
Having an offline map ensures you never get lost, even without internet access.
- Update Frequency: Ensure your maps are the latest versions.
- Coverage: Check the map covers all areas of Shenzhen you plan to visit.
- Compatibility: Confirm it works smoothly on your device.
8. Use Mobile Translator Apps
Break language barriers when traveling around Shenzhen with accurate translation apps.
- Offline Mode: Choose apps that function without needing internet.
- Language Options: Ensure Mandarin is available and accurate in your app.
- Voice Support: Confirm if the app offers voice translation.
9. Pack a Multi-port Charger
A multi-port charger keeps your electronics powered up, crucial for long layovers or road trips within the city.
- Voltage Compatibility: Ensure the charger supports China’s voltage (220V).
- Port Options: Consider the number of ports based on devices you’ll carry.
- Compactness: Choose a charger that is light and travel-friendly.
10. Schedule Your Shenzhen Trips Around Shenzhen's Major Conventions
Avoid transportation rush linked to events like the Shenzhen International Cultural Industry Fair.
- Event Calendar: Monitor Shenzhen’s convention schedules beforehand.
- Hotel Availability: Pre-book accommodation early due to high demand.
- Transport Strain: Expect possible transport delays during major events.
11. Pre-plan Your City Transits with Ride-Sharing Apps
Navigate Shenzhen easily using ride-sharing apps like Didi to avoid public transport hiccups.
- Account Setup: Set up the app before your journey for easy access.
- Payment Methods: Link payment options that work in China.
- Availability: Assess the service coverage for desired regions.
12. Carefully Pack a Universal Power Adapter
Keep your devices charged throughout Shenzhen using a universal power adapter.
- Plug Types: Confirm the adapter supports China’s plug type A, I, or C.
- Multiple Devices: Consider models that cater to simultaneous charges.
- Portability: Ensure the adapter is compact and easy to carry.
13. Know the Airport’s Fast Track Security Options
Use the paid priority lanes at Shenzhen Airport for a quicker security check.
- Service Cost: Check the pricing of fast track services.
- Eligibility: Assess if any frequent flyer status offers free access.
- Service Hours: Confirm availability during your flight times.
14. Plan Visits to Shenzhen’s Pearl River Delta
Take a quick day trip to major nearby cities like Guangzhou or Hong Kong for a diverse travel experience.
- Transportation: Research the best travel modes, like ferries or trains.
- Visa Requirements: Check if additional visas are needed for travel to Hong Kong.
- Timetables: Familiarize yourself with travel schedules to optimize day trips.
15. Enjoy Discounted Tourist SIM Cards
Purchase SIM cards specific for tourists to enjoy cheaper and faster data services.
- Data Limitations: Evaluate plans based on data needs.
- Purchase Locations: Determine availability at airports or downtown.
- Network Coverage: Confirm strong signal strength in all your destinations.
16. Find Accommodations with Concierge Services
Travelling is smoother when your hotel offers concierge support for bookings and local advice.
- Services: Investigate what types of bookings can be made by concierge.
- Language Proficiency: Ensure language compatibility for clear communication.
- Operational Hours: Check availability during your anticipated needs.
17. Participate in Transit Hotels’ Paid Nap Rooms
Use nap rooms in Shenzhen Airport for a quick rest between flights to improve alertness.
- Booking: Research potential to book rooms in advance.
- Pricing: Familiarize yourself with pricing models that may be hourly.
- Airport Section: Identify the airport terminal hosting these facilities.
18. Learn Basic Chinese Phrases for Travel
Simplify communication and interactions by learning basic Mandarin phrases specific to travelers.
- Pronunciation: Focus on correct pronunciation for clarity.
- Essential Vocabulary: Prioritize phrases related to directions and shopping.
- Cultural Respect: Understanding enhances interactions and shows respect.
19. Attend Airline-specific Events at Shenzhen Airport
Often, airlines host small events or provide special offers in their lounges for frequent flyers.
- Flight Time: Plan around potential events indicated by airline communications.
- Special Deals: Keep an eye out for limited offers on upgrades or miles.
- Membership: Frequently requires membership with the airline's loyalty program.
20. Familiarize Yourself with Local Cuisine Vocabulary
Know essential dish names and food-related terms for Shenzhen's cuisine to ensure enjoyable culinary experiences.
- Contextual Terms: Focus on local specialities or dietary needs relevant words.
- Restaurant Settings: Use terms for settings like casual meals or fine dining.
- Written Recognition: Work on recognizing characters for common foods.