How much cash do you need in Beijing? Tips for Aussie travellers

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The cost of travelling in Beijing can vary greatly depending on your style of travel. Here's a rough breakdown of daily expenses to help you plan:

​​Expense	​Budget Traveller	​Mid-range Traveller	​High-end Traveller
​Accommodation (per night)	​¥100–¥250	​¥400–¥800	​¥1,000+
​Food & drinks	​¥60–¥150	​¥200–¥400	​¥600+
​Transport	​¥10–¥50	​¥60–¥120	​¥200+
​Attractions	​¥50–¥100	​¥150–¥300	​¥400+
​Daily total (approx.)	​¥250–¥500	​¥800–¥1,500	​¥2,000+​

Tip: For a typical Aussie couple spending 5 days in Beijing, budgeting ¥800–¥1,000 per day (approx. $170–$210 AUD) offers good flexibility without overspending. 

 

Although China leads the world in digital payments, tourists still need cash for many everyday transactions. Here’s where physical yuan is essential:

• Taxis and local buses that don’t accept foreign cards
• Street food vendors and markets (especially in hutongs)
• Entrance fees at smaller cultural sites
• Tipping tour guides or porters (not mandatory, but appreciated)
• Public toilets and vending machines in some areas

Many of these don’t support card or mobile payment options for foreigners, so it's best to keep ¥300–¥500 in small notes on hand each day. 

 

While locals rely on apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay, these platforms can be tricky for international travellers due to ID verification requirements.

That said:

• Some major chains and hotels accept Visa or Mastercard, but acceptance is not universal.
• ATMs are available, but may charge foreign card fees or have withdrawal limits.
• If you plan to use digital payments, you may be able to link an international card to WeChat Pay, but setup can be hit-or-miss.

It's wise to use a mix of cards and cash, and never rely solely on one method.

For more practical insights on this, check out our related guide: Best ways to carry and use cash as a couple in China.

 

The easiest way to avoid payment headaches is to prepare your yuan before you leave Australia. Here’s why:

• Better rates than at the airport or overseas kiosks. 
• 0% commission and wide currency availability with Prosegur Change
• No stress searching for exchange points after arrival

Prepare for your trip by reserving your travel money online in advance. Enjoy great rates, 0% commission, and collect your Chinese yuan at the airport with Prosegur Change, a name trusted for over 30 years.

Also relevant: Money rules for Aussie travellers visiting China together.

 

Before you start packing, here are some common questions Aussie travellers ask about managing cash in Beijing:

A bit of cash goes a long way in Beijing. While digital payments are dominant, cash remains king for tourists in many everyday situations. Planning your currency exchange before you leave ensures a smoother arrival and better rates — so you can focus on the experience, not your wallet.

Reserve your yuan online with Prosegur Change and pick it up at the airport before departure. Trusted by travellers for 30+ years, we make your travel money simple and secure. 

More related content

Best ways to carry and use cash as a couple in China

Cash limit for international travel: Everything Australians need to know before flying

Money rules for Aussie travellers visiting China together