When it comes to communication, traveling to China is particularly a problem. Chinese internet restrictions often known as “Great Firewall” do not allow easy access to a number of global sites and applications, such as Google, Facebook, Instagram etc. However, using a VPN can resolve the issue, but it is not always efficient or plausible to use all the time. That’s where having a local SIM card or an eSIM with an in-built VPN service is very useful indeed. I have put together this guide to provide an overview of the most suitable SIM and eSIM solutions to use in China that allow voice connection to Google and other banned services without any need to download a separate VPN.
SIM vs eSIM – Which One is Better?
While traditional and new generation SIM cards eSIMs work in China, the latter is preferred in terms of connecting to the internet as well as in terms of getting around internet restrictions. Some of the eSIM service providers have pre-built VPNs in their service plans making it easier for you to access the blocked services.
|
Feature |
SIM Card |
eSIM |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Card | Requires a physical nano/micro SIM card | No physical card needed, embedded in your device |
| Availability | Widely available at airports and stores | Limited device compatibility |
| Flexibility | Can be easily swapped between devices | Cannot be physically swapped between devices |
| Activation | Requires physical insertion | Activated online or via QR code |
| Convenience | Less convenient for multi-country travel | More convenient for frequent travelers |
| VPN Integration | Requires a separate VPN app | Some providers offer built-in VPN functionality |
For tourists traveling to China who wish to use Google and other restricted services, eSIM with an in-built VPN option is the simplest one. But if your device does not allow using eSIMs or if you prefer to have a physical one then, as usual, you can find a local SIM card and then use a second VPN application.
Best China SIM Card plans for tourists & cost
China has three major mobile operators: This is where three big telecommunication providers of China have reflected their strategies namely China Mobile, China Unicom as well as China Telecom. All have different bundles of SIM cards for travelers, but it is critical to notice that not all of them come equipped with a VPN. Here’s a comparison of some popular tourist SIM card plans:
| Provider | Data Allowance | Validity | Price (approx.) | VPN Included |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| China Mobile | 5GB | 30 days | US$20 | No |
| China Unicom | 6GB | 30 days | US$25 | No |
| China Telecom | 4GB | 30 days | US$18 | No |
Note: The above are just but a few of them, actual plans and prices may differ. It is always advisable to establish the current offers of different providers and compare to make the right choice. Further, for using the blocked services you will need another VPN application, in case the SIM card does not have the VPN feature included.
Top eSIM Providers for China
Some of eSIM providers have specific travel packages for China that allow using only VPN for the unrestricted internet. Some popular options include:
- China eSIM: Several packages with different validity of the offer and amount of data as well as free VPN connection is included in these packages. Prices start from US$12. 8 for 5 days and 1 Gig space for browsing the internet.
- Holafly: Offers flexible eSIM plans with data only and no contract where you can choose the volume of data you need and the period for which you need it with in-built VPN access. There is a range of prices starting from US$19 for the period of 5 days.
- Airalo: Sells eSIMs for China with and without VPN support. Tariffs for plans with VPN begin with one geo at USD 9 for 1 GB.
Pros and Cons of eSIM Providers:
- Pros:
-
- Easily ordered from the web and activated
- Competition to the price charged by the roaming
- Relative to to their predecessors they do not require SIM card change that involves going to the physical level.
- IPVanish VPN capabilities integrated to provide unimpeded access
- Cons:
-
- Limited device compatibility
- May not be allowed to provide local phone numbers
- Customers may not get adequate support to which they are used to with some of the local carriers
Activating Your China eSIM
Choose an eSIM provider from the list above that matches your intended length of stay and data needs in China. Sign up for an account and pay for your China data package. Follow the eSIM activation process in the provider’s app. This will transfer your plan securely onto the eSIM in your device.
Be sure to install the eSIM app and activate your China data plan before departure. This ensures seamless connectivity as soon as you land in China. If not activated beforehand, you will need a WiFi or roaming connection to activate after arrival.
Once your China eSIM is ready to use, turn off cellular data roaming on your primary SIM card to avoid roaming fees. Connect to the Chinese eSIM for all data needs during your trip. Monitor your data usage in the eSIM app and top up if needed.
Tips for saving data on China SIM/eSIM
Having a local Chinese SIM card or eSIM is an advantage in terms of data for your travel, but one must be disciplined enough to avoid using all the data before the end of the trip. All in all, it is possible to make the best out of your data plan and avoid such surprises as overcharged bills by using a few recommendations.
- Utilize Wi-Fi whenever possible: To avoid spending a lot of data, use free public Wi-Fi at hotels cafes, and other similar places.
- Download offline maps: Print out the maps of the countries you are planning to visit so that, you do not use up a lot of your data.
- Limit background app refresh: To protect your data, tap on the settings of your phone and turn off background app refresh so that it does not allow apps to access data in the background.
- Use data-saving mode: There is commonly a ‘data-saving mode’ available in a lot of browsers and in many apps.
- Compress photos and videos: Participants should compress the images and videos that they wish to share to minimize the use of data.
With the help of these tips, you will probably be able to limit the consumption of the data messages and avoid any additional fees. As always it is advisable to be keen and check frequently the amount of data you have used and change your behavior accordingly.
Final Tips
Before you embark on your exciting journey to China, let’s wrap up with a few final tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:
- Check your phone’s compatibility: Before purchasing a SIM card or eSIM, make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with the networks in China.
- Bring your passport: You’ll need your passport to register your SIM card.
- Learn some basic Mandarin phrases: Knowing a few basic phrases can be helpful when communicating with locals.
- Be mindful of scams: Be cautious when purchasing SIM cards from street vendors, as they may be selling fake or overpriced SIMs.
By following this guide and choosing the right SIM card or eSIM, you can stay connected and enjoy unrestricted internet access throughout your trip to China.
