How to Use a Cell Phone in China

China is one of the world's most fascinating travel spots. While you're visiting the infamous Great Wall and exploring the Temple of Heaven, you want to make sure that you are able to use your cell phone should you experience an emergency. Using a cell phone in China is easy if you follow the correct procedures.

Things You'll Need

• Plug adaptor
• List of important phone numbers
• Transformer

Instructions

1. Purchase the correct plug adaptors from an electronics store before you leave home so that you can charge your cell phone while in China. China uses plug types "A," "I" and "G."

2. Use a transformer that can handle 220 volts, which is the voltage used in China, when charging your cell phone. Your cell phone could be permanently damaged if you do not use the correct transformer.

3. Call your cell phone provider to make sure that they offer phone coverage in China. Ask to be upgraded to international roaming.

4. Rent a cell phone or SIM card to use with your personal cell phone if your cellular company does not offer coverage in China.

5. Know how to dial locally within China. If you are dialing a place in China with the same city code as which you are calling, just dial the number. If the number has a different city code, dial "0," plus the city code, plus the phone number.

6. Know how to call the United States from China. First dial "00" (this is the international prefix to dial outside of China). Then dial "1" (this is the international code used to dial to the U.S.). Follow that by the city code and phone number.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to charge your cell phone each night using the correct plug adaptor and transformer.