China eSIM & Internet Guide for Foreigners
·8 min read
Quick Answer
Get an eSIM from Airalo, Holafly, or China Unicom. Activate before arrival. For Google/WhatsApp/Instagram, you also need a VPN.
eSIM Options
- Airalo: Good coverage, 10GB for ~$30, easy setup
- Holafly: Unlimited data plans available, slightly more expensive
- China Unicom: Local carrier, best speeds, requires passport registration
- Redtea Mobile: Popular with tourists, flexible plans
Data Recommendations
For a 1-week trip: 5-10GB should be sufficient. For 2 weeks: 10-20GB. If you use maps and translation frequently, get more.
About the Great Firewall
China blocks Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and many Western websites. An eSIM gives you internet access, but NOT access to blocked sites. For that, you need a VPN.
LOCAL TIP: Install and test your VPN BEFORE arriving in China. Many VPN websites are blocked, so you can't download them once you're here.
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