Choose the option that fits your trip
Travel eSIM
A useful option if your phone supports it and is carrier-unlocked. Many travel plans are data-only, so do not assume you will receive a Chinese phone number or SMS. Check coverage, validity, hotspot support, activation rules and data limits before buying.
Your home carrier’s roaming plan
Convenient if you want to keep your usual SIM. Confirm that mainland China is included, the charges, fair-use limits and how to activate it. Set a spending cap if your carrier offers one.
A mainland Chinese SIM
Useful if you need a local number or are staying longer. Visit an official carrier store or authorised airport counter with your original passport. Ask about registration requirements, plan expiry and cancellation, and test the connection before leaving.
Check compatibility first
eSIM support depends on the exact phone model, where it was purchased and your carrier. A phone with an eSIM setting may still be locked to its original carrier. Verify both device support and carrier unlock before paying for a travel plan.
Installation and activation are different. Some plans start their validity when installed; others start when they first connect at the destination. Read the provider’s instructions before scanning the QR code.
Set up your two lines
- Install with a reliable connection. Follow your provider’s instructions and label the new line “China data”. Save the setup and support details offline.
- Select the travel line for data. Enable data roaming on that line only if the provider requires it.
- Keep your home line for messages. Check SMS roaming availability and charges with your carrier. Disable its data roaming and automatic mobile-data switching to avoid surprise charges.
- After arrival, check the connection. If needed, toggle airplane mode and follow the provider’s APN or network-selection instructions. Do not delete the eSIM as a first troubleshooting step.
Keep your number
Bank verification messages
Existing contacts
Use your data plan
Maps, payments, translation
Travel apps
Disable automatic data switching if you want to prevent fallback to your home plan. Labels differ by device.
Will my usual apps work?
Some familiar services, including Google services and WhatsApp, may not work on mainland local networks. Access can differ with international roaming, the provider’s routing and the individual plan. An “eSIM” label alone does not promise access to a particular app.
Ask the provider about the specific services you need. Download offline Chinese translation and maps, and save your hotel address in Chinese. Keep WeChat available for local contacts.
A few common questions
Will a data-only eSIM receive my bank codes?
No. Codes sent to your home number need that original line to remain able to receive SMS, or another verification method arranged with your bank.
Can I depend on hotel and airport Wi-Fi?
It is better to have a mobile-data backup. Wi-Fi can be unreliable or require extra login steps, including SMS verification.
Sources & editorial notes
Adapted and edited from the original Chinese preparation guides provided to nihao China. App screens, eligibility and fees can change; check the official service before travelling.