China travel has sharp seasons: Golden Weeks (Spring Festival, Labour Day, National Day) are most crowded and pricey; mid-June to early July and September are mini low seasons - good weather, low prices, ideal for off-peak travel.
Flights: domestic tickets are usually cheapest 45-60 days out; departing Wednesday and returning Tuesday beats weekends; budget carriers (Spring Airlines) exclude checked baggage - watch the allowance.
Tickets: seniors 60 and over, students, children, military and people with disabilities often get half price or free entry with ID. Many sights sell cheaper night tickets after 5 p.m.
Hotels: booking 7 days ahead is often 30 percent cheaper than the same night; quality budget chains (Atour, Hanting) offer great value, with member discounts.
Transport: city buses and metro cost 1-8 yuan and accept Alipay and WeChat QR codes; long-distance coaches run about half the price of high-speed rail when you have time to spare.
