Is It Better to Travel in China as a Backpacker or Join a Structured Tour Group, or Both?

In my previous article, I mentioned that I would write about whether it’s better to travel in China as an independent traveler or join a structured tour group. In this piece, I’ll explore the pros and cons of each option and share my thoughts on what might work best for different types of travelers. Spoiler alert: there’s also a hybrid approach—combining backpacking with day tours—that could be the perfect middle ground.


Option 1: Joining a Structured Tour Group

If you’re looking for hassle-free travel with minimal effort in planning, and especially if you can’t speak or read Chinese, joining a structured tour group is likely your best bet. Many international travel agencies offer comprehensive packages tailored to Western tourists, covering everything from flights and accommodations to guided sightseeing and meals.

The biggest advantage of this method is convenience. You don’t need to worry about language barriers, transportation logistics, or figuring out which attractions are worth visiting. Everything is pre-arranged for you, leaving you free to enjoy the trip without stress.

However, there are downsides. The lack of flexibility is a major drawback. With a fixed itinerary, you may not have enough time to fully immerse yourself in any one location. Additionally, you might miss out on visiting cities or landmarks that interest you personally but aren’t included in the tour schedule. Essentially, this option sacrifices customization and freedom for ease and comfort.




Option 2: Hiring a Local Tour Guide as an Independent Traveler

Another alternative is hiring a local tour guide while maintaining independence over your itinerary. This service is available in countries like Australia, where companies specialize in creating personalized travel plans for clients who want both structure and autonomy.

This method allows you to design your own itinerary while benefiting from logistical support. For instance, a local guide can help navigate language barriers, arrange transportation, and provide insights into cultural nuances. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who prefer a balance between exploration at their own pace and professional assistance.

That said, this option isn’t without its drawbacks. First, it can be expensive, depending on the level of service you choose. Second, relying heavily on guides may contribute to “over-tourism,” where popular destinations become overcrowded due to high demand. Still, for those seeking a blend of independence and guidance, this approach offers a compelling compromise.






Option 3: A Hybrid Approach – Backpacking + Day Tours

For travelers who can speak and read Chinese (or even those who can’t but are willing to adapt), I highly recommend combining backpacking with day tours. This was the strategy I used during my recent trip to Chengdu and Chongqing last December, and it turned out to be an unforgettable experience.

Why Choose the Hybrid Approach?

China is a vast country with diverse landscapes and attractions. Its modern urban centers brim with energy, offering endless opportunities for discovery, while ancient towns and UNESCO World Heritage Sites showcase centuries of history. To truly appreciate this diversity, you’ll want to tailor your travels accordingly.

As a backpacker, you can lose yourself in bustling cities like Chengdu and Chongqing, exploring hidden gems tucked away in every corner. These cities reward wanderers with surprises around every turn—whether it’s a quirky street food stall, a tucked-away tea house, or a breathtaking viewpoint. However, when it comes to visiting remote heritage sites, such as temples perched atop mountains or scenic villages far from city centers, joining a day tour group becomes invaluable.

Day tours typically include round-trip transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and a knowledgeable guide—all bundled into an affordable package. For example, during my two-week journey, I spent four days backpacking in each city and three days joining different day tours to nearby heritage sites. By alternating between these modes of travel, I kept my itinerary dynamic and engaging. One day, I’d be immersed in the vibrant chaos of the city; the next, I’d find peace amidst thousand-year-old temples.

Tips for Choosing Day Tours

When selecting a day tour operator, take your time to compare options. Most Chinese cities have numerous travel agencies offering trips to the same destinations. Look for well-reviewed companies that explicitly state their tours are “tourism only” or “no shopping.” Some unethical operators lure unsuspecting tourists into mandatory shopping stops—a trap you’ll want to avoid. Reading reviews and checking itineraries carefully will ensure you pick a reputable agency.




Navigating Chinese Cities as a Backpacker

One concern many first-time visitors have is getting lost in unfamiliar cities. Fortunately, technology makes navigation incredibly straightforward. Apps like Amap and Baidu Map feature AI-powered navigation systems that map virtually every business in China. Simply enter your destination—be it a museum, restaurant, or hotel—and the app will plot the optimal route, complete with voice-guided directions.

During my travels, I found these apps remarkably accurate, with deviations rarely exceeding 1 meter. The only hiccup occurred in Chongqing, where tiered architecture occasionally confused the system. But overall, I never felt truly lost thanks to these tools.




Using Taxis in China: Safe, Convenient, and Affordable

While public transport in Chinese cities is advanced and efficient, I recommend using taxis as your primary mode of transportation when backpacking. Walking all day can be physically exhausting, particularly in hilly cities like Chongqing, where stairs abound. Hailing a cab lets you rest your legs and eliminates the hassle of finding bus stops or metro stations.

Taxis in China are safe, convenient, and surprisingly affordable. Using apps like Didi (integrated with WeChat Pay) streamlines the process. Just input your destination, select a ride, and wait for the taxi to arrive—usually within 1-2 minutes. Once onboard, the driver’s dashboard displays the same route shown on your app, ensuring transparency. Payment is handled through the app after your ride, and you can leave feedback or file complaints if needed.

Fares are reasonable, too. During my trip, most rides under 7 kilometers cost between 6-15 CNY (approximately $1-$3 AUD). Even longer journeys were affordable; my longest ride, spanning over 20 kilometers, cost just 31 CNY ($6.8 AUD). Compared to Sydney’s train fares, taxis in China feel like a steal!


Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the best way to travel in China depends on your preferences, budget, and comfort level. If you value simplicity and don’t mind sacrificing some freedom, a structured tour group is ideal. If you crave customization but still want logistical support, hiring a local guide works well. But if you’re adventurous, tech-savvy, and eager to strike a balance between independence and convenience, consider blending backpacking with day tours.

Personally, I loved how the hybrid approach allowed me to soak up the vibrancy of Chengdu and Chongqing’s urban sprawl while also marveling at their serene historical treasures. With modern navigation tools and affordable taxis making city exploration effortless, traveling in China has never been easier—or more rewarding.


**P.S.** In a previous article, I mentioned that you need to fill out an arrival card upon entering China, similar to the process in Australia. However, there’s now an *online arrival card* available, which allows you to complete the form prior to your travel. This means you no longer need to fill in the physical card manually upon arrival. You can access the online arrival card at this link: [https://www.singlewindow.sh.cn/hj/]. Once you open the webpage, select “Arrival Card,” fill in the required information, and press “submit” to complete your digital arrival card. Be sure to take a screenshot of the QR code or download your completed arrival card for use at border control. When you arrive at the airport in China, head to the self-service machine, scan the QR code from your digital arrival card, and print it out. Then proceed to the border entrance counter as usual. This new system makes the arrival process faster and more convenient!

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