Mobile data in China: roaming, eSIM or local SIM?

For mobile data in China, the type of connection you choose decides which apps work. Visitors use one of three options: roaming, a travel eSIM or a local SIM. Below is what each one means for apps such as Google and WhatsApp. We don’t recommend specific providers.

Option 1: roaming on your home SIM

Roaming on your home SIM, and many travel eSIMs, route your data outside mainland China, which is why blocked apps can still work on them. It is the simplest option; check your plan’s price for China with your operator before you go.

Option 2: a travel eSIM

Many travel eSIMs work the same way as roaming. Buy and install a travel eSIM before you arrive: once you are in mainland China, the seller’s website may be blocked. Check that your phone supports eSIM, and read how the seller routes your data before you buy.

Option 3: a local Chinese SIM

A local Chinese SIM and hotel or café Wi-Fi go through the domestic network, so blocked apps usually stay blocked there. Choose this only if you mainly use Chinese apps.

Wi-Fi

Hotel and café Wi-Fi is handy for maps and Chinese apps, but a local Chinese SIM and hotel or café Wi-Fi go through the domestic network, so blocked apps usually stay blocked there.

Practical tips

• Keep your home number active so you can receive verification codes from your bank and apps.
• Download offline maps and translations before you leave.
• Set up your payment apps at home.

More on apps and websites: internet in China for tourists.