How to Budget a 3-City China Trip: 10 Nights, 3000 RMB – Realistic or Not?

So you've got 10 nights in China and roughly 3000 RMB (about $420) to spend, not counting your flight or visa. Can you pull off Shanghai, Chengdu, and Chongqing on that? Travelers on Reddit are split, but a solid number say yes—if you're willing to live like a budget backpacker. Here's what that actually looks like, based on real trip reports and the questions first-timers keep asking.

The Numbers: What 3000 RMB Gives You Per Day

Spread over 10 nights (11 days), 3000 RMB works out to about 273 RMB per day. That's tight for Shanghai, where dorm beds and meals cost more, but easier in Chengdu and Chongqing, both tier-2 cities with lower prices. One Reddit user reported spending just 2400 RMB over 10 days across Chengdu and Chongqing by sticking to street food and hostel dorms. That gives you a little breathing room for the pricier days in Shanghai.

Keep in mind this budget excludes your international flight, visa fee, and travel insurance—so set those aside before you start counting.

Where Your Money Goes: A Honest Breakdown

Stay: Hostel Dorms Only

• Shanghai: 120–180 RMB per night for a decent dorm
• Chengdu and Chongqing: 80–120 RMB, sometimes under 100 for a well-rated hostel
• Average over 10 nights: roughly 1300 RMB total

Eat: Street Food and Local Canteens

• A bowl of noodles runs 10–20 RMB; a food court meal is 20–40 RMB
• Budget 70 RMB per day = 770 RMB total. That leaves room for a 50 RMB Sichuan hotpot splurge in Chengdu

Move Around: Metro and Trains

• Metro rides within cities cost 3–8 RMB
• Intercity trains are the big variable. A second-class high-speed train from Shanghai to Chengdu can hit 600 RMB if booked late, but overnight hard-sleeper trains run under 300 RMB per leg. Plan for 500–800 RMB total for intercity plus local transit

That leaves roughly 100–300 RMB for sightseeing. Good news: many top experiences are cheap or free. The Shanghai Bund's skyline view costs nothing, Panda Base in Chengdu is 55 RMB, and Ciqikou Ancient Town in Chongqing is open to wander without a ticket. Skip paid observation decks and pricey performances.

What Budget Travelers Actually Say

The r/chinatravel crowd isn't shy about what works. Common advice: pre-book trains early, travel with one backpack, and eat where locals eat. Night trains save a night's accommodation—a double win. One traveler noted that eating only street food in Chengdu and Chongqing meant they rarely spent more than 60 RMB a day on meals.

The flip side? Shanghai will eat your budget if you're tempted by craft cocktails or a river cruise. Also, little conveniences like daily bubble tea, western coffee, or laundry add up fast. Stick to free activities—walking the Bund, hiking in People's Park in Chengdu, exploring Ciqikou—and you'll stay on track.

Can You Actually Enjoy Yourself?

Yes, if you adjust expectations. You'll miss out on high-end soup dumpling spots, but you'll taste Sichuan hotpot for 50 RMB and eat noodles you'll crave for months. Hostel common rooms are where you'll meet other budget travelers, and the cities' best charms—streets, markets, parks—are all free. This itinerary is about the experience, not luxury.

FAQ

Is 3000 RMB enough for 10 nights in Shanghai, Chengdu, and Chongqing? Yes, if you stay in hostels, eat street food, and skip paid attractions. Aim for ~270 RMB per day and book trains early.

How much is a hostel dorm bed in these cities? Shanghai averages 120–180 RMB; Chengdu and Chongqing can go under 100 RMB for a solid dorm.

What's the cheapest way between cities? Overnight hard-sleeper trains, often 200–300 RMB per leg. High-speed rail is faster but costs double or more.

Should I book hostels in advance? Yes, especially in Shanghai. Apps like Hostelworld or Trip.com often have early-bird deals.

For more money-saving ideas, check our China backpacking daily cost guide and budget street food in Chengdu.

Still unsure? Ask fellow travelers on r/chinatravel or other China travel forums—plenty of people have done this exact route and can share fresh tips before you lock in your plans.