Smart China Trip

Internet, SIMs & eSIMs in China

In China, maps, ride-hailing and payments all depend on mobile data. Pick how you’ll get online before you land, and keep your own number able to receive texts.

  • Verified 3 Oct 2026
  • 6 min read
  • Short trips · Mainland China

Quick check

Two questions to pick your option

  1. 1

    Do you need a Chinese phone number?

    For example a long stay, or receiving lots of Chinese text messages. Short trips usually don’t.

01

Three ways to get online

Roaming

Enable ahead

Keep your own number and SIM

Best for
Short trips with no fuss
Check
Prices are set by your carrier — confirm the plan before you go

Travel eSIM

Install before you fly

Buy online, install by QR code

Best for
eSIM-capable phones and a tighter data budget
Check
Usually data-only with no Chinese number; check it covers mainland China

Local SIM

Chinese number

Calls, texts and data

Best for
Longer stays, or when you need a Chinese number
How
In person with your passport at a carrier’s own store
02

Before you fly

These four steps are easiest at home and save a lot of hassle on arrival.

  1. 1

    Check your phone

    Check exact model, regional version, unlock status and eSIM compatibility with the device and plan providers. Confirm when installation and activation should happen.

  2. 2

    Activate or install

    Turn on roaming with your carrier, or buy a travel eSIM and install it before you leave.

    The new line shows in settings

  3. 3

    Keep your number

    On dual-SIM phones, assign texts to your usual line and data to the travel line. Confirm SMS roaming with your home carrier; this does not guarantee every bank code will arrive.

  4. 4

    Save things offline

    Save bookings, addresses and a passport photo, and download offline translation packs for the moment you land.

03

Make sure codes arrive

Signing up for Alipay, linking cards and logging into booking sites can all need a text code. If one doesn’t arrive, check in order:

  • Your own line is switched on, with roaming enabled.
  • You picked the right country code when entering your number.
  • Wait a minute before retrying — repeated requests can be throttled.
  • If the app offers email or voice verification, try that instead.

Don’t cancel your home number

Keep your home number active while travelling — banks often send foreign-payment confirmations there.

04

Common questions

Can I rely on Wi-Fi alone?

Not really. Ride-hailing, maps and QR payments need data on the go, and some hotel or mall Wi-Fi asks for a phone number to log in.

Can a travel eSIM make calls?

Most are data-only with no Chinese number. Use your own number on roaming for calls; check the plan’s details.

Can I get a SIM at the airport?

Some international airports have carrier counters. Bring your passport; opening hours vary.

Will all my usual apps work?

Some overseas websites and apps may not be reachable in mainland China. Save what you need offline and install local map, translation and ride-hailing apps before you go.

05

Read next

Internet & AppsEssential Apps for ChinaPayments, maps, ride-hailing, translation and bookings — installed and signed in before you fly.ReadInternet & AppsNot Getting Verification Codes?Why sign-up and card codes don’t arrive, dual-SIM setup and alternatives.ReadMoney & PaymentsHow to Pay in ChinaAlipay first, WeChat Pay as backup: card linking, fees and limits, cash as a fallback.ReadTrip plannerPut your trip on the mapPick cities, plan the days, see travel times at a glance.Plan your journey

Sources

  1. Dual SIM and eSIM use and limitationsApple Support
  2. Guide to working and living in China for foreign business peopleMOFCOM, MIIT and other departments · 2025
  3. Real-name registrationChina Mobile
  4. PBOC payment guide for foreign visitorsChina National Radio · 2024-03-15

Sources support the relevant rules, last reviewed 3 Oct 2026. Routes, budgets and practical suggestions are editorial guidance, not official guarantees. Recheck rules and service availability before travelling.