Change only a small amount of ringgit into RMB before you fly, enough for the first day, and rely on a phone wallet, a card and cash from China for the rest. This keeps your bag light and your risk small.
It is natural to want a thick envelope of cash for peace of mind. In China, a small envelope and a working phone wallet give you more peace than a large one.
How much cash is sensible?
Enough for the arrival day: airport transport, a first meal and a small buffer. Beyond that, use a phone wallet or card.
China’s currency is the renminbi, code CNY, commonly abbreviated RMB[1]. Cash is still legal tender, and merchants should accept it[2]. Even so, small notes are useful for taxis, markets and small shops that do not take your card.
Where can you change money?
You can change ringgit at banks, licensed money changers and airport counters in Malaysia, or change in China once you land. Each place has its own rate and fee, so ask the same three questions at each.
| Place | Suits | Ask |
|---|---|---|
| Bank in Malaysia | Planned, small amounts | Do you stock RMB, and is there a fee? |
| Licensed money changer | Comparing rates in person | What is the rate for exactly the notes I want? |
| Airport counter or kiosk in China | Last-minute top-up | What is the rate, and is there a service charge? |
In China, more than 60,000 bank outlets nationwide offer foreign currency exchange, and kiosks at airports and border ports dispense RMB banknotes[3]. That figure is from March 2024, so treat it as a sign that exchange is available, not a promise of a nearby outlet.
What is the cash declaration limit?
Cash above RMB 20,000 or foreign currency above US$5,000 equivalent must be declared on entry or exit[4]. Few travellers come near this, but a family that pools its cash in one bag should keep it in mind. Our customs guide covers other limits.
Why does a phone wallet matter more?
Phone payment is common in China, so a wallet app earns its place in your pocket. Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, Discover and Diners Club cards can be bound to Alipay and Weixin Pay without a Chinese bank account[5]. Set them up at home on Wi-Fi, with your passport name and a selfie, and test one small payment as soon as you land.
The Alipay Tour Pass prepaid card was reported discontinued in 2026, with direct foreign-card binding recommended instead[6]. Travel guides also report a 3% fee on foreign-card payments over 200 yuan through Alipay, with no fee at or below 200 yuan[7]. That was not confirmed on an official page, so check inside the app.
A simple money split
- A small RMB envelope for day one
- A phone wallet with a card bound and tested
- A second card in a different bag
- Notes in small denominations for taxis and markets
- A note of your bank’s lost-card number
What to do next
Before you exchange anything, set up the wallet and read the KLIA departure checklist so the money fits the rest of the morning. Then price your trip in ringgit with the budget planner, and browse the From Malaysia topic page.