Train Booking: 12306 vs Trip.com

Trip.com

Recommended for Travelers

Pros:

• Friendly English interface.
• Supports international credit cards directly.
• 24/7 English customer support (crucial for changes/cancellations).

Cons:

• Charges a small service fee per ticket.

12306 (Official App)

For Experts / Residents

Pros:

• Official ticket source.
• No service fees.

Cons:

• Requires 'Identity Verification' which involves manual review.
• Process can take hours or verify fail for foreigners.
• Interface and support are less foreigner-friendly.