In my opinion, there is one clear best option for data in China. But it’s worth noting that no option is perfect. Each comes with its own set of trade-offs, and what works best will depend on your needs. One thing is certain though: you will need internet access.
Access to data in China is essential. Many services require it, including transport, payments, maps, and translations. It’s also one less thing to worry about if you sort it before arriving. Having a working internet connection from the moment you land gives you immediate access to everything from ride-hailing to scanning QR codes for tickets.
This article is intended for travellers visiting China on a short-term basis, typically anything less than 40 days. If you’re relocating or staying long term, the advice here won’t apply.
Option 1: Local SIM Card
Buying a local Chinese SIM card is possible, but there are some limitations. Even if you manage to order one online or through a third party in advance, it will not be usable until your ID is verified in person. This is a requirement under Chinese law.
You may also run into issues depending on where you try to get verified. Not every store supports foreign ID verification, and not all staff will speak English. From what I’ve seen, China Unicom tends to be the most foreigner-friendly. They offer an English version of their app and make it easier to check your data usage and balance.
This option is best suited for those arriving at major international airports where tourist SIM services are available and staff are more likely to speak English. However, it’s worth noting that airport some prices apply here as well… If you’re landing at a smaller regional airport, this becomes much more difficult and potentially not worth the effort.
The advantage of this option is that you receive a Chinese phone number. That number is sometimes required to register with certain apps, such as booking train tickets or accessing local services. It can also make ride-hailing apps like Didi more reliable, since drivers often call to confirm pick-up details.
However, most people can get by without a local number. Many Chinese services, including Didi, are accessible via sub-apps within WeChat or Alipay, and these platforms do not require a local number if you’re using international versions of the apps. With this knowledge, we can look at more convenient options which are less troublesome than verifying an ID card on entry.
Option 2: Roaming
Roaming is the simplest choice. You keep your existing SIM and let your home carrier handle everything. No identification, no setup, and no change to your phone number. It also avoids the initial inconvenience of finding a SIM provider upon arrival.
But the convenience comes at a cost. Roaming rates in China are typically high, especially for data. Depending on your provider, the cost could quickly outweigh any benefit.
It also shares the same drawback as an international eSIM: no Chinese phone number.
Option 3: E-SIM
There are two ways to get an eSIM that works in China.
The first is through a global eSIM provider like Airalo, Holafly, or Nomad. These are easy to set up and work as advertised, but they’re more expensive. For example, a 30-day plan with 20 GB of data through one of these providers usually costs between $35 and $40 USD, or about $66 NZD.
The second and the best value option is using a local eSIM provider via the Trip.com mobile app (the mobile app has more listings). You’ll need to download the Trip.com app on your phone, search for eSIM options, and purchase one that suits your travel dates and data needs.
To give you a price comparison, Trip.com offers a 30-day plan with 1 GB of data per day (totaling 30 GB) for around $24.66 NZD. That is less than half the price of the global eSIM option, with more data.
This solution is fast and provides reliable access within China. You don’t get a local phone number, but you do get working data immediately with no ID verification required.
Whether you need to go to the effort of obtaining a local number is up to you. But for the majority of travels a local number will be overkill for the services required during their visit.
Please comment if you’ve found a better option for internet access in China. I’ll keep this article up to date.
Safe travels.
Timbo
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