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China

How to Use the Internet in China: SIM, eSIM, Wi-Fi & Roaming

Learn the easiest ways to stay connected in China, including international roaming, eSIMs, local SIM cards, Wi-Fi, and access to your usual apps.

How to Use the Internet in China: SIM, eSIM, Wi-Fi & Roaming

How to Use the Internet in China

Having reliable internet is especially important when traveling in China. You’ll use your phone for payments, maps, transportation, translation, hotel information, and communication.

There are several ways for foreign travelers to stay connected.

Option 1: International Roaming

Using international roaming from your home carrier is often the simplest option.

You keep your existing phone number and usually don’t need to change your SIM card.

Advantages

  • Easy to set up
  • Keep your regular phone number
  • No need to buy a Chinese SIM card
  • Convenient for receiving text messages and verification codes

Disadvantages

  • Can be expensive
  • Data allowances may be limited
  • Speed depends on your carrier and roaming agreement

Option 2: Travel eSIM

If your phone supports eSIM, a travel eSIM can be another convenient option.

You can usually purchase and install the eSIM before arriving in China and activate it when your trip begins.

Advantages

  • Can be set up before your trip
  • No physical SIM card to change
  • Often cheaper than traditional international roaming
  • You can keep your regular SIM active for calls and text messages

Disadvantages

  • Not every phone supports eSIM
  • Some plans are data-only
  • Quality and access vary by provider

Option 3: Chinese SIM Card

You can also purchase a local Chinese SIM card after arriving.

A local SIM can be useful for travelers staying for a longer period or those who need a Chinese phone number.

You may need to show your passport when purchasing and registering the SIM.

Hotel and Public Wi-Fi

Hotels, airports, restaurants, and other locations may provide Wi-Fi.

However, don’t rely entirely on public Wi-Fi. Some networks may require phone verification, and availability and speed can vary.

Travel tip: Have mobile data working before you leave the airport. Many everyday travel tasks in China — including maps, transportation and mobile payments — are much easier when your phone already has internet access.

What About Google, Gmail, WhatsApp and Other Apps?

Internet access in mainland China is different from many other countries. Some foreign websites and services may not be directly accessible on ordinary mainland Chinese internet connections.

Your experience can also differ depending on whether you’re using a local SIM, Wi-Fi, international roaming, or a travel eSIM.

For that reason, install the apps and services you expect to need before traveling to China.

Before You Leave Home

  • Check whether your phone is unlocked.
  • Check whether your phone supports eSIM.
  • Compare your carrier’s China roaming plan with travel eSIM options.
  • Download the apps you’ll need.
  • Download offline maps and important travel information.
  • Keep your regular phone number available if you need SMS verification.
  • Make sure Alipay and WeChat are set up before departure.

Having your internet plan ready before you arrive makes the rest of your China trip much easier.