An eSIM isn't just convenient for China travel — it's essential. Without reliable eSIM you may not be able to use common applications like Facebook or Instagram, use mobile payments, access maps, translate signs, or communicate catch a ride with DiDi (China's version of Uber).
"Good morning sir, I wonder if you sell SIM cards?"
Why eSIMs Are Non-Negotiable in China
China's digital ecosystem is unlike anywhere else in the world. Cash is virtually extinct, QR codes are everywhere, and essential services require constant internet connectivity. Here's why an eSIM becomes your lifeline:
Mobile Payments Everywhere
AliPay and WeChat Pay require internet to generate QR codes and process transactions. No connection = no payments = no food, transport, or shopping.
Navigation & Translation
Google Maps doesn't work in China. You'll need Baidu Maps or offline alternatives, plus real-time translation for signs, menus, and conversations.
Access to International Apps
Many popular apps (Google, Facebook, Instagram) are blocked in China. A reliable eSIM allows you to bypass these restrictions and stay connected.
Instant Activation
No hunting for SIM cards at airports, no language barriers with shop staff, no waiting in lines. Activate before you even board your flight.
Comparing Your Connectivity Options
In the old days we would jump off a plane and immediately search around the airport for a SIM card booth. With no idea what we were getting, or what we should be paying, inevitably we would end up paying too much for a SIM with poor coverage or a tiny data allowance.
Since our first time using an eSIM in China in 2022, we've never looked back. The convenience, cost savings, and peace of mind it provides are invaluable. There is still a place for buying a physical SIM card in China, especially when staying for a few months or more, but even when we are taking longer trips we still prefer to use an eSIM for the first few days so that we can land, look at maps, contact family and order a DiDi to the hotel.
In short, eSIMs are the best choice for 95% of travellers to China. It's one of those things that you'll use once, and then never look back. Not a sales pitch. You can thanks me after your trip.
Critical: Don't Travel Without an eSIM
Your Alipay and WeChat Pay won't work without internet. An eSIM ensures you stay connected from the moment you land.
- $15-30 for entire trip (vs $200+ roaming)
- Works instantly - no SIM swapping
- Keep your home number active
| Option | Cost | Convenience | VPN Included | Reliability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| eSIM | $15-50 | Excellent | ||
| International Roaming | $200-500+ | Variable | ||
| Airport SIM Card | $30-80 | Good | ||
| Pocket WiFi | $40-100 | Good |
Image: Cost comparison chart showing eSIM savings vs other options
Choosing the Right eSIM Provider
Not all eSIM providers work equally well in China. Here's what to look for:
Network Coverage
Look for providers that use China Mobile or China Unicom networks. These offer the best coverage across major cities and tourist destinations.
Data Allowance
If you are a light user (only using your phone for basic tasks and maps) you may need 1GB or less per day. For most users, who want to view maps, use translation, browse social media and upload photos, you should budget 1-3GB per day. Digital nomads or those who require a lot of data should look to unlimited plans. Unlimited plans often offer the best value, but be careful of providers that heavily throttle your speeds.
Activation Process
Choose providers with QR code activation and 24/7 support. Avoid services requiring complex manual configuration or Chinese-language setup.
Speed and Reliability
Look for guaranteed 4G/5G speeds with no throttling. Read recent reviews from China travelers to verify real-world performance. Our current recommendation for 2025 is Airalo, which has proven reliable for us on our 2024 and 2025 travels in China.
ESim Provider Comparison (2025 Update)
| Provider | Cost | Speed | Support | Data Limit | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | $5-$35 | Excellent | Excellent | 1-20GB/day | Get Airalo |
 | $5-$65 | Pretty Good | Just Okay | Unlimited (Throttle) | Get YeSim |
 | $5/day | Not Great | Not Great | Unlimited (Throttle) | Not Recommended |
Installation and Setup
Pro Tip: Install Before You Travel
Install your eSIM while still at home with reliable WiFi. Set it as your secondary line, then activate it when you land. This avoids any installation issues during travel.
- Purchase your eSIM from a reputable provider 2-3 days before travel
- Download the eSIM using the provided QR code while on home WiFi
- Label it clearly (e.g., "China Data") but don't activate yet
- Keep your home SIM as primary for now
- Upon landing in China, switch to the eSIM for data
- Test connectivity immediately by loading a webpage
Image: Step-by-step screenshots of eSIM installation process
What About VPNs?
Your eSIM provides internet access, but you'll still need a VPN for blocked services:
Blocked Services (Need VPN)
- Google (Search, Maps, Gmail)
- Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp
- YouTube, Netflix
- Banking apps (often)
Works Without VPN
- AliPay, WeChat Pay
- Baidu Maps
- Translation apps
- Most travel apps
Bottom Line
An eSIM is your gateway to China's digital world. Without reliable internet, you'll struggle with basic travel necessities. The small upfront cost ($15-50) prevents hundreds of dollars in problems and ensures your trip focuses on experiences, not connectivity issues.