How to Pay on Taobao Without Alipay as a Foreigner
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So you’ve finally found that perfect item on Taobao—maybe it’s a trendy piece of tech, a handmade craft, or some authentic Chinese streetwear. But then comes the reality check: you’re a foreigner without Alipay, and the payment screen looks like a maze with no exit.
Don’t panic! You’re not alone. Thousands of international shoppers face this every day—and guess what? There are ways to pay on Taobao without Alipay. Let’s break it down in plain English (no tech jargon, we promise).
Why Can’t Foreigners Use Alipay Easily?
Great question. Alipay is China’s digital wallet giant, but it requires a Chinese bank account and phone number for full access. Most foreigners don’t have those, so they get stuck at checkout.
Smart Workarounds That Actually Work
Luckily, Taobao has evolved. Here are your best options:
- Use Taobao’s International Site (AliExpress-style)
Taobao partners with AliExpress, which accepts Visa, MasterCard, and even PayPal. Simply search your item on AliExpress—if available, buy it there. It may cost slightly more, but it’s hassle-free. - Hire a Proxy Shopping Service
Services like Buyandship, Panda Global, or Superbuy act as your middleman. They buy from Taobao using their local accounts and ship internationally. You pay via credit card or PayPal. - Get a Virtual Alipay via TourPass
TourPass lets foreigners load money into a virtual Alipay wallet using an international card. It’s approved by Ant Group and works directly in the Taobao app. Perfect for short trips or one-off purchases.
Which Method Is Best? A Quick Comparison
| Method | Payment Options | Fees | Delivery Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| AliExpress | Visa, MasterCard, PayPal | Low (included in price) | 7–15 days |
| Proxy Services | Credit Card, PayPal | Service fee + shipping | 10–20 days |
| TourPass (Virtual Alipay) | International Credit/Debit Cards | ~5% loading fee | Matches domestic shipping |
As you can see, TourPass gives you the most authentic Taobao experience, while AliExpress wins for simplicity.
Pro Tips for Smoother Shopping
- Always check seller ratings—aim for 98%+ positive feedback.
- Use Google Translate or the Taobao app’s built-in translator.
- Confirm international shipping is supported before buying.
- Keep tracking numbers handy—customs delays happen.
The Bottom Line
You can shop on Taobao without Alipay. Whether you go through AliExpress, use a proxy, or try TourPass, the key is choosing the method that fits your needs. Want speed? Try TourPass. Want simplicity? Stick with AliExpress. Need bulk buys? A proxy service is your best friend.
Happy shopping—and may your packages arrive fast and customs-free!