China connectivity tool

China Internet Setup Finder

Find the right internet setup for your China trip

Answer seven practical questions to compare international roaming, a travel eSIM and a local SIM, then get a personalized setup and backup checklist.

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About 2 minutes
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Your trip and device

Build your connection plan

0 of 7 answered

01Does your phone support eSIM?

Support depends on the exact model, country of purchase and carrier.

YesI have confirmed it. NoMy phone does not support eSIM. Not sureI need to check the exact model.

02Is your phone carrier-unlocked?

A locked phone may reject both a travel eSIM and another physical SIM.

YesIt can use another carrier. NoIt is still carrier-locked. Not sureI need to ask my carrier.

03Where will you use mobile data?

Mainland China onlyA China-specific plan may be enough. Mainland + Hong Kong or MacaoCheck every included destination. Mainland + other Asian destinationsA regional plan may be more practical.

04How long will you stay?

1–7 days 8–15 days 16–30 days More than 30 days

05How will you use mobile data?

EssentialsMaps, payments, translation, messaging and light browsing. Everyday useEssentials plus social media, photos and occasional video. Heavy useVideo calls, streaming, frequent uploads or hotspot use.

06Do you need a mainland Chinese phone number?

Many travel eSIMs provide mobile data but not a mainland number.

YesI expect to need a local number. NoMobile data is enough. Not sureI need to check my bookings and services.

07Does your home plan include roaming in mainland China?

Yes, included Available, but expensive No Not sure

Understand the decision

eSIM, roaming or a local SIM?

Travel eSIM

Often practical for a short trip when the exact phone supports eSIM, is unlocked and no mainland number is needed. Confirm installation, activation, coverage, routing, hotspot and refund terms before paying.

International roaming

May be simplest when mainland China coverage is already included or clearly priced by your home carrier. Confirm charges, fair-use limits and whether calls or verification messages cost extra.

Local registered SIM

May fit a longer stay or a real need for a mainland number. Plan how you will get online before reaching an authorized carrier store, and confirm that the phone accepts another physical SIM.

Before relying on any plan

Keep important bookings, your hotel name and address in Chinese, installation instructions, and essential map or translation information available offline. No connection method can guarantee access to a particular international service.

Read the complete China internet guide →

Quick answers

Internet setup questions

Will a travel eSIM give me a Chinese phone number?

Many travel eSIMs are data-only. Check the exact product description if a mainland Chinese number is important to your trip.

Can I keep my home SIM active?

Many dual-SIM phones can keep the home line available, but the exact behavior and roaming charges depend on the phone and carrier. Confirm both before departure.

Should I install an eSIM before flying?

Follow the provider's current instructions. Installation and activation timing are not always the same, so save the instructions offline before departure.

How much data do I need?

Usage varies widely. Video, hotspot use, cloud backups, automatic updates and frequent uploads can increase consumption quickly.

Do I need a backup connection?

A fallback is sensible. Keep home roaming available where practical and save hotel Wi-Fi details plus essential travel information offline.