A Malaysian Guide to Budget Travel in China

Planning a trip to China from Malaysia on a budget? With the right strategies, you can explore China's rich culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities without breaking the bank. Here's a comprehensive guide, with some of my travel tips, to help you make the most of your journey!

Before that, why not read about the tips and things to know before flying to China as a Malaysian?

Getting There: Affordable Flights from Malaysia to China

Several airlines offer direct flights from Kuala Lumpur, Sabah, and Penang to major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. Flight durations typically range from 4 to 6.5 hours. To secure the best deals, consider booking during off-peak seasons or using fare comparison websites.

I managed to snag a deal for my flight from KL to Guangzhou for under RM800, and it was with a full-service airline, China Southern Airlines! The experience was smooth, with excellent service and in-flight meals included. If you don’t mind a short transit, there are even more options available at budget-friendly prices.

Budget-Friendly Accommodations in China

Accommodation in China can be surprisingly affordable, especially for Malaysians travelling on a budget. Whether you're backpacking through smaller cities or exploring major metropolises like Shanghai or Beijing, there are plenty of clean, comfortable, and reasonably priced options available.

Hostels and guesthouses are ideal for budget-conscious travellers, with prices typically starting from ¥100 to ¥200 per night (around RM65 to RM130). These often include basic amenities and are great for meeting fellow travellers. If you prefer a little more privacy, budget hotel chains such as 7 Days Inn or Jinjiang Inn offer rooms in the ¥200–¥300 range (RM130 to RM195), often with en-suite bathrooms and convenient locations.

If you’re travelling with friends or don’t mind sharing a room, your accommodation budget can stretch even further, making your trip even more cost-effective!

Navigating China on a Budget

Local Metro Systems

Getting around China on a budget is both easy and efficient thanks to its well-developed transportation system. Major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Guangzhou boast extensive metro networks, with fares starting from as low as ¥2 (around RM1.30). These systems are reliable, punctual, and an excellent way to avoid traffic congestion while exploring urban areas.

High-speed Rail (HSR)

For intercity travel, China’s high-speed rail (HSR) system is one of the best in the world. Not only is it fast and comfortable, but it’s also affordable, especially when you book your tickets in advance. Sometimes, even travel platforms such as Klook or Trip.com offer slight discounts for high-speed rail tickets!

Whether you're planning a short hop between cities or a longer journey across provinces, the train system is an economical and scenic option. For my previous trip to China, I explored three different cities with the HSR in only seven days!

Didi Taxi

Within cities, ride-hailing apps like Didi (China’s equivalent of Grab) offer a convenient and reasonably priced alternative to taxis. They're especially useful when travelling late at night or when public transport isn't readily available.

I personally recommend using Didi Taxi for your trip to China, especially if you're travelling with one or more friends, as the shared cost might be cheaper than taking the local train sometimes! For solo travellers, opting for shared rides can save even more money while still getting you where you need to go comfortably.

Managing Payments and Staying Connected

Staying connected in China is relatively straightforward, especially given the country's advanced digital infrastructure. One of the most convenient aspects for travellers is the widespread use of mobile payment platforms. Apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted virtually everywhere, from street food stalls and convenience stores to high-end restaurants.

The good news for Malaysian travellers is that both apps now allow tourists to link international credit or debit cards, making transactions seamless without the need to carry large amounts of cash. You can even use the Touch' N Go app to pay, but the rates will be slightly higher.

Food in China: Eating Well Without Overspending

Eating well in China doesn’t require a big budget, thanks to its incredibly diverse and affordable cuisine. Street food is a staple of daily life, and you can enjoy popular snacks like dumplings, hand-pulled noodles, and grilled skewers for as little as ¥5 to ¥15 (around RM3 to RM10).

For something more substantial, local eateries serve hearty meals for ¥20 to ¥50 (RM13 to RM33), offering generous portions and authentic flavours. Each region also boasts its own specialities, from spicy Chongqing hotpot to delicate Cantonese dim sum, so don’t hesitate to explore and taste what makes every part of China unique.

Estimated Daily Budget in China

• Accommodation: RM65 to RM195

• Food: RM20 to RM50

• Transportation: RM10 to RM30

• Attractions: RM20 to RM60

Total spending in China without considering flight tickets and additional shopping is estimated to be approximately RM115 to RM335 per day, depending on personal preferences and spending habits.

Also read: A Malaysian Guide to Budget Travel in South Korea

With careful planning, a total budget of around RM3,000 to RM4,000 can easily cover a fulfilling 5D4N trip to China. Keep in mind, though, that certain cities like Shanghai or northern destinations such as Harbin may be slightly more expensive.

Regardless, I hope these tips help you plan your own budget-friendly China adventure soon!

All images are credited to Cecelia Chang