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Mobile internet in China: Best options for tourists in 2024
Discover the best ways to stay connected in China with mobile internet. Learn about SIM cards, eSIMs, and Pocket WiFi options, and how to bypass restrictions for seamless online access.
China is home to 56 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These include cultural wonders such as the Great Wall and Forbidden City and natural marvels like Huangshan Mountain and Jiuzhaigou Valley. Then, there are unique places like Mount Taishan that offer a blend of natural and religious significance.
Whatever you have on your bucket list for your trip to China will definitely be something to write home about. More precisely, I want to text and call home about it. To do so, you’ll need to check whether your phone works in China and find a reliable mobile internet in China.
There are various options to do this, each suiting different budgets and providing their own levels of convenience. In this article, we explore the best options to stay connected in China and help you pick the best option for your needs.
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Mobile internet in China: The 5 best options
There are several ways for you to get your internet connection while traveling through China. Here they are:
- eSIM cards
- Prepaid SIM card
- Pocket WiFi
- International roaming
- Free WiFi
Each has its pros and cons, as well as specifics that can make it the best or the worst option for you, depending on your internet use habits, budget, and expectations. Let’s start with the most convenient internet option for any type of travel—China included.
eSIM for China with unlimited data
There’s a good reason why many seasoned travelers choose eSIMs to stay connected. An eSIM is a digital SIM card that you can use at your travel destination. If your phone is eSIM compatible, you buy your eSIM online and install it simply by scanning a QR code your chosen provider emails you.
Once you do that, you have your data allowance to stay connected without dipping into your mobile phone package and paying those high roaming fees. Keep in mind that eSIMs don’t usually come with SMS or call options. You can still use your primary SIM card with no interference from your eSIM. They work perfectly side-by-side.
Not all eSIMs have the same prices and features. Here’s why Holafly’s eSIM for China makes the most sense.
Reasons for using an eSIM for China
Here are some great reasons why you should give eSIM for China a try instead of using a SIM card.
No limits on your data usage: You get an eSIM that offers unlimited data for as many days as you like, even though some networks may impose a Fair Use Policy. Usually, eSIM providers offer limited data packages, but that’s not very convenient if you don’t want to worry about running out of data. The only limitation is for a hotspot. You can share up to 500 MB a day.
Choose how many days you need your eSIM for: In many cases, eSIMs are offered for a certain number of days and set to expire in five, ten, or even thirty days. With Holafly, you get to choose any number between 1 and 90, and that’s precisely how long your eSIM will last.
VPN (Virtual Private Network) included: China has many restrictions regarding internet use. If you want to avoid or at least reduce these restrictions, you’ll need a VPN. It encrypts your connection, so it seems you’re accessing online content from a different location. That way, you can access Google and similar services as if you were outside China. Typically, you’d have to buy a VPN separately, but Holafly includes it in your package.
Strong connection and speeds like a local SIM card: Your Holafly eSIM will connect to the China Mobile network at 3G/4G/LTE/5G speeds, depending on where you are. Major cities in mainland China will have excellent coverage, but isolated areas may not. For coverage on islands like Hong Kong or Taiwan, you must purchase an eSIM specific to those areas or opt for an Asia eSIM card that covers the entire region.
Prepaid SIM card for China
Getting a local SIM card in China is a good option for those without a smartphone that uses eSIM. In this case, you will have to buy a physical SIM card and replace your primary card with it or add it to a second slot in your phone if you have one.
You can find China SIM cards online, at major international airports, telecom stores, or some convenience stores, like 7-Eleven.
Before buying a local SIM card, remember that you must register it. China has strict identification rules for SIM cards, so you’ll need your passport and some help filling out registration forms. You can do this at airports or official telecom stores.
It is best to choose tourist SIM cards for China from these popular providers:
China Mobile is the largest mobile phone provider in China. Their plans include 1 GB/a day for 18 RMB ($2.53) or larger packages like 3 GB for $12.35 and 20 GB for $13.75 with unlimited plan benefits. For longer stays, there are 90-day plans with 3 GB for $12.63 or 6 GB for ~$21.05.
China Unicon is a better choice for those who have older phones. China Mobile uses a specific type of network for its 3G, which not many phones from the EU or USA support. On the other hand, China Unicorn uses a network that works well with older and newer phones. Plans include 5 GB/7 days for $28.10 GB/15 days for $45 and 30 GB/ 30 days for $60.
Pocket Wifi for internet in China
A pocket WiFi device for China is a good alternative when you are traveling in a group or need to connect multiple devices at the same time. Typically, travelers rent a pocket WiFi device during their stay.
The main reason many people choose eSIM over pocket WiFi these days is that you must arrange the pick-up and drop-off of the device, pay a security deposit, and carry another device with you at all times. Also, the price is usually high. Here are some of the best offers for a pocket WiFi device you can use in China:
- Roamingman: There’s no plan for China specifically, but you can use one of their devices covering Asia. These plans are 1GB for $7.99/day, 3 GB for $9.99/day, and 5 GB for $12.99/day. You can pick your device up at the airport or have it delivered to you.
- Rent n’ Connect: You can rent a portable WiFi device that includes China in its global coverage for $9.95/day per day. For that price, you get unlimited data. However, there’s an additional $12 shipping fee, and pick-up locations are limited to European countries.
- Travel WiFi: You can choose from data plans starting at $7.95 for 1 GB/day, $9.95 for 2 GB/day, or $11.95 for 5 GB/day. Delivery fees range from $3 to $29, and they don’t deliver to China, so you’d have to plan ahead.
Roaming in China with your local operator
Another way to access the internet in China is to use your provider’s international roaming services. This is usually the most expensive option, and the prices for your data, calls, and SMS while you are abroad depend on your package and what’s included in it.
Here is a general overview of the roaming charges for China that you can expect from the most popular telecom providers in the US, UK, and Australia.
| Provider | Plan Name | Price (daily) | Data Allowance | Other Features | |
| USA | Verizon | TravelPass | $10 (USD) | Your package data | Unlimited calls and texts |
| AT&T | International Day Pass | $12 (USD) | Your package data | Unlimited calls and texts | |
| UK | Vodafone | Global Roaming | £7.39 | Your package data | Includes 77 countries |
| EE | Roam Abroad Pass | £8.45 | 500 MB daily | Available in 47 countries | |
| Australia | Telstra | International Day Pass | $10 (AUD) | 2 GB /day | Unlimited calls and texts |
| Optus | Travel Pack | $5 (AUD) | 5 GB /day | Unlimited calls and texts |
Free WiFi
Free WiFi in China can be found in restaurants, cafeterias, airports, hotels, and trains. It is pretty much widely spread, but there are two things that make it less accessible than what you might be used to:
- Public WiFi in China often requires SMS verification. For this, you need a local SMS or be able to receive SMS to your primary number.
- Just like with any other internet option in China, you’ll have to use a VPN if you want to access.
- Be careful when using public WiFi, which can leave your data vulnerable to hackers. It’s advisable to avoid sensitive activities like online banking.
Things to know about using internet in China
You probably know about the government-imposed restriction system in China that prevents you from accessing different apps and websites. Nicknamed “The Great Firewall of China,” it blocks you from accessing all Google services, social networks such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, and communication apps such as WhatsApp. You also won’t be able to access different news portals such as The New York Times.
Using your phone and mobile internet in China is a bit different than what you’re used to, so here are some tips that can help you help make the transition smoother and keep you connected.
1. Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network)
A VPN is a must if you want to check your Gmail or tweet about your experience in Shanghai. While VPNs are present across China, they can be restricted, so it’s best to download and install a good VPN that definitely works in China before your trip. It might be impossible or tough to get one after you arrive.
Do your research and make sure that the VPN you choose can actually help you while in China. Look for recommendations from users who have first-hand experience. If all this sounds like too much work, you can just get a Holafly eSIM that comes with a VPN and solve that problem in advance.
2. Check if your phone works in China
Your phone will probably work just fine in China. However, if you want to be sure, go to your phone manufacturer’s website and check if your phone supports the following frequencies:
- 4G Bands: China Mobile (Band 39, 40, 41), China Unicom (Band 1, 3, 8), and China Telecom (Band 1, 3).
- 5G Bands: Mainly N78 and N79 for Sub-6 GHz.
Before you go on your trip, make sure your phone is unlocked. This is important for using an eSIM or a local SIM card. These will only work on unlocked phones.
3. Consider using WeChat
For those living in China, there are two essential mobile apps: WeChat and Alipay.
WeChat started as a messaging app similar to WhatsApp but evolved into a social media platform, preferred payment method, and more. In China, mobile payments are preferred over cash, so paying with WeChat is convenient.
If you want to stay in touch with Chinese friends and business partners, they will likely use WeChat since your usual social media apps and WhatsApp are prohibited.
There are some restrictions for foreigners regarding using WeChat for payments. You can link a foreign credit card (not a debit card) and use it for payment, but not for money transfers to friends and family. There are limitations for balance withdrawals, as well, since you need a Chinese bank account for that.
Alipay is another widespread payment method. Just like with WeChat, you can only link your credit card to Alipay. There are also similar user restrictions, but Alipay offers Tour Pass for foreign tourists. With that option, you can use Alipay without a Chinese bank account for up to 90 days.
4. Consider App alternatives
Since many Western apps are blocked, you may need to download Chinese alternatives like:
- Google Maps: Use Baidu Maps or Gaode Maps.
- Google Search: Baidu
- Google Translate: Baidu Translate or iFlytek
- Social Media: Weibo
- Uber: DiDi Chuxing
These are the versions available to foreigners. However, not many of them have English interfaces or translations. That’s why it’s best to master iFlytek or Baidu Translate first and then move on.
5. Come prepared with an eSIM
Using your phone and internet in China is quite different from what you are used to. A VPN can prevent you from using exclusively Chinese apps with few English translation options. Since they don’t require registering with the Chinese authorities, paying high fees and carrying another device everywhere you go, or risking scams with SMS verifications, getting an eSIM before your travel to China is the best way to stay connected.
FAQs about mobile internet in China
eSIMs are not illegal in China, but they are restricted and uncommon. Chinese mobile operators usually offer them for wearable devices but not smartphones. However, if you get your eSIM for China before your travels, you will have no problems using it there.
China Mobile is the largest network in China and has the best coverage, even in rural areas. It is followed by China Unicom, which offers slightly better compatibility with foreign devices.
Unauthorized use of VPNs is illegal in China, even for foreigners. People are allowed to use only government-approved VPNs. In reality, most foreigners use VPNs in China, especially if they only visit for a short time.
Not with Holafly eSIM. Holafly eSIM for China comes with an integrated VPN and unlimited data, so you can browse the web like you are used to, without restrictions.
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Hi! Leoneska here, your guide to traveling connected. I'm a Venezuelan SEO content specialist with over four years of experience sharing tips and tricks for using mobile internet while traveling and making the most of your adventures. At Holafly, I take care of providing reliable and high-quality information to travelers like you. I hope you enjoy my content and find it useful!
