Overview of SIM Card Options for Travelers in China

1. International Roaming

Opting for international roaming allows you to keep your personal phone number while traveling in China. However, this convenience often comes with high costs. Before departing, it’s crucial to check the roaming fees that might be incurred in China and inquire if your carrier has partnerships with Chinese networks, which could potentially offer more favorable rates.

2. eSIM

An eSIM can be a more economical choice, especially for data usage, compared to the typically high costs associated with international roaming. For instance, a 15 GB data plan via eSIM can cost as little as $21 (approximately 150 RMB). The eSIM doesn’t require a physical card and can be activated even before arriving in China, making it a convenient option for travelers. However, the downside is that eSIMs do not provide a local phone number, which means you can’t make voice calls or receive SMS messages.

3. Travel SIM Card

After arriving in China, you can purchase a local SIM card at the airport using your passport. This will give you a valuable Chinese local number, which is essential for receiving SMS and making calls. This is particularly useful for tasks like registering app accounts, calling taxis, ordering food, booking hotels, and purchasing tickets. Travel SIM cards are often more cost-effective compared to international roaming or eSIM options. For example, China Mobile offers a package with 20 GB of data and 80 minutes of voice calls for around 150 RMB (approximately $21). A recommended place to buy a SIM card is at the shop located to the right of the Cheerway Easy Go convenience store in the arrivals area of Shanghai Pudong Airport, which caters specifically to international tourists.

This guide should help you choose the best SIM card option for staying connected while traveling in China!

simcard_guide

Arrival at the Airport:

  • Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK):

    • You can purchase SIM cards at the arrivals area. Stalls are located within the baggage claim area and there is also a desk outside.
    • Snail Mobile vending machines can be found in Terminal 2 of the Beijing Airport.

  • Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG):

    • Similar to Beijing Airport, major Chinese airports typically have kiosks for telecom companies in the arrivals area.
    • The recommended place to buy a SIM card is next to the Cheerway Easy Go convenience store, known for reasonable prices, English-speaking staff, and helpful service.

    Click here for a detailed guide.

  • Pricing and Packages:

    • Options are typically displayed in English. Common packages are shown in the image below:

simcard_price

  • SIM Card Type:

    • Only physical SIM cards are available; local eSIMs are not offered.

  • VPN Requirement:

    • A VPN is necessary to access Google services and other blocked Western websites with a local SIM card.

Alternative Options:

  • City Center Stores:

    • If you miss getting a SIM at the airport, head to a major telecom company store in the city center (China Unicom, China Mobile, China Telecom).
    • Business-oriented hotels in the area may also assist with setting up SIM cards for foreigners.

  • eSIMs:

    • Local eSIMs are not yet available, but international eSIMs like those from Airalo or Nomad can be used in China.
    • You can use an eSIM with a +852 Hong Kong number and add a mainland China number (+86) to receive texts. This setup allows you to register for essential Chinese apps like Baidu Maps and Didi.
    • Don’t worry if you don’t have a China (+86) number; Alipay and WeChat accept foreign numbers.

    For detailed information on using eSIMs, check out this guide.

Using SIM Cards:

  • Physical SIMs:

    • Requires a passport for purchase.
    • The setup process typically takes about 20-25 minutes at the store.

  • Internet Access Without a Local SIM:

    • Some international SIM cards, like T-Mobile, offer roaming data plans that work in China and provide access to Western apps without needing a VPN.

    • eSIMs offer affordable data-only plans.

Payments and Apps:

  • WeChat Pay and Alipay:
    • Can be set up with foreign numbers and credit cards.
    • It’s recommended to set up accounts before arriving in China.

Additional Tips:

  • VPNs:
    • Necessary for accessing Google services and other blocked Western websites.
    • Microsoft services work well in China. If you don’t plan to use a VPN, you can set up Gmail or your email to forward to your Microsoft Outlook client.
  • Translation Apps:
    • Microsoft Translator or other Chinese-recommended translation apps like Baidu Translator should be installed before arriving.
    • Alipay also has a built-in translation mini-app.

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