Get Online in China
eSIM you can buy before you leave, and where to find a physical SIM card when you land. Everything you need to stay connected.
How do I get internet in China as a tourist?
The simplest route is a travel eSIM bought before you leave - buy online, activate on arrival, no shop visit or SIM swap. Most travellers never visit a SIM counter. Device support: iPhone XS and newer (except mainland-China models, which have no eSIM), Google Pixel 3 and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer.
If you prefer a physical SIM, counters at major airport arrivals halls sell short-stay data plans; bring your passport.
Most travellers buy a data plan before they arrive and never visit a SIM counter. But knowing where the counters are - just in case - makes the arrival anxiety disappear.
eSIM - Set up before you fly
Buy online, activate on arrival. No need to find a shop or swap your home SIM.
๐ฑ Which phones support eSIM in China?
- โ iPhone: XS and newer (except China mainland models which have no eSIM)
- โ Google Pixel: 3 and newer (except Japan models)
- โ Samsung Galaxy: S20 and newer, Z Fold/Flip series
- โ Huawei: P40, Mate 40 Pro and newer (some models eSIM-only)
- โ Others: OnePlus 11+, Oppo Find X5+, Xiaomi 13+ (regional variants vary)
eSIM Provider Comparison
Prices are approximate and change frequently. Check each provider for current rates.
| Provider | Data | Duration | Price | Top-up |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airalo | 1–20 GB | 7–30 days | $5–37 | โ |
| Holafly | Unlimited | 5–90 days | $19–99 | โ |
| Nomad | 1–50 GB | 5–30 days | $6–45 | โ |
| Ubigi | 1–30 GB | 7–30 days | $8–36 | โ |
| AloSIM | 1–20 GB | 7–30 days | $7–35 | โ |
๐ฅ How to set up an eSIM
- Buy a plan from your chosen provider (Airalo, Holafly, Nomad - all have apps)
- You'll receive a QR code or installation link via email
- Add the eSIM to your phone before you leave (Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM)
- Label it "China Data" in your settings
- Turn off your home SIM or set it as the voice-only line
- When you land in China, turn on data roaming for the China eSIM → you're online
โ Why eSIM
- Set up at home, no queue at airport
- Keep your home SIM active
- No passport needed
โ ๏ธ Considerations
- Phone must support eSIM
- Chinese iPhones have no eSIM
- Data only - no local phone number
- Troubleshooting from abroad can be hard
Airport SIM Card - Buy when you land
If your phone doesn't support eSIM, or you prefer a local number, buy a physical SIM card right after you clear customs.
๐ What you need
- โ Passport - mandatory for all SIM purchases in China
- โ Cash or card - most airport counters accept Visa/Mastercard
- โ Unlocked phone - your phone must be carrier-unlocked
Where to find SIM counters at major airports
Carrier Travel Plan Comparison
| Operator | Plan | Data | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| China Mobile | Travel SIM | 20–50 GB | 7–30 days | ยฅ100–300 |
| China Unicom | Foreign Tourist SIM | 15–40 GB | 7–30 days | ยฅ88–258 |
| China Telecom | Welcome Card | 20–30 GB | 10–30 days | ยฅ100–200 |
โ Why physical SIM
- Works on any unlocked phone
- You get a Chinese phone number
- Easier to use for Didi / Meituan / other local apps
- Staff help you set it up on the spot
โ ๏ธ Considerations
- Need to queue at the counter
- Must show your passport
- Registering can take 5–15 minutes
eSIM vs Airport SIM: Which one for you?
A quick decision guide.
| eSIM | Airport SIM | |
|---|---|---|
| Buy before arrival | โ | โ |
| Works on Chinese iPhones | โ | โ |
| Chinese phone number | โ | โ |
| Price (7 days, ~5 GB) | $7–15 | ยฅ100–150 (~$14–21) |
| Setup time | 2 mins (before trip) | 10–15 mins (at airport) |
Getting from the airport to your hotel? โ Airport transport guide