Why this works
The Great Firewall blocks traffic originating from Chinese IP addresses. Travel eSIMs assign you a roaming IP (typically Hong Kong, Singapore, or the UK), so from the network's perspective you're a foreigner using a foreign carrier. Your data is unrestricted.
You don't install or configure anything China-specific. You don't need a VPN. You don't need to register with a Chinese carrier or hand over a passport.
The three eSIMs worth buying
- Airalo — cheapest. 1 GB ~$5, 5 GB ~$20, 10 GB ~$37. Routes via Hong Kong. Best for short trips.
- Holafly — unlimited data plans. 5 days $19, 15 days $47, 30 days $69. Best if you stream / hotspot.
- Nomad — middle ground. Good 4G/5G speeds, transparent network info.
All three install via QR code in 2 minutes. Buy before you fly, install at home, activate when you land.
What works, what doesn't
- Works: Google (Search, Maps, Gmail, YouTube), Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, X/Twitter, Signal, ChatGPT, Reddit, Wikipedia, your bank app.
- Also works: Chinese apps (WeChat, Alipay, Didi, Meituan, Trip.com) over the same connection.
- Doesn't matter: The eSIM doesn't give you a Chinese phone number — for that, see below.
Do I also need a local SIM?
Only if a Chinese app you want to use requires SMS to a +86 number. In practice this is rare in 2026 — WeChat and Alipay both accept foreign numbers, and Didi works with your home number. Most travelers don't bother.
VPN as a backup
Install before you fly (most VPN websites are blocked from inside China). Astrill, ExpressVPN, and LetsVPN have the best China track records. Only useful as a fallback if the eSIM has an outage or you're on hotel Wi-Fi.
Common mistakes
- Buying a local Chinese SIM at the airport — gets you a Chinese IP and full firewall. The opposite of what you want.
- Using hotel Wi-Fi without a VPN — same problem, plus slow.
- Waiting until you land to install the eSIM — you may not be able to reach the activation page from inside China.
Once you're online, finish setup with Alipay or WeChat Pay and you're operating like a local.