Travelling in China rarely means staying in one place. You might land in Beijing, take a high-speed train to Shanghai, explore Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors, then head to Guilin or Chengdu before flying home. However you plan your route, one thing stays constant: you need reliable mobile data.

Maps. Train bookings. Translation apps. DiDi rides. Alipay or WeChat Pay. Hotel confirmations. In China, staying connected isn’t optional; it’s essential.

And this is where things get complicated.

Roaming plans are expensive and unpredictable, often leading to heavy BILL SHOCKS after your trip. Airport SIM counters can be confusing. Public Wi-Fi frequently requires local phone verification. And while eSIM technology itself is not banned in China, local network regulations can affect how certain apps function once inside the country.

That’s why choosing the best eSIM for China matters.

To avoid connectivity issues, it’s important to install and activate your best eSIM for China travel before you land. Some eSIM provider apps may have limited access within mainland China due to internet restrictions, so setup should always be completed prior to arrival. Once activated in advance, most international eSIMs connect immediately upon landing and route data through global networks, helping ensure smoother access and avoiding roaming surprises.

Choosing the best eSIM for travel to China in 2026 can make a significant difference in coverage stability, app access, and overall convenience.

In this guide, we compare the best eSIM providers for China, analyzing network reliability, activation ease, hotspot flexibility, pricing transparency, and real-world performance. If you’re researching the best eSIMs for China in 2026, this breakdown will help you choose confidently before your trip.

Best eSIMs for China

The table below compares the best China travel eSIM providers across coverage, network quality, and traveler-friendly features.

#1. Jetpac

Jetpac is the best overall travel eSIM because it’s built for real trips, not just data packages. You get strong nationwide coverage across China, reliable connectivity, and practical features that genuinely help when travel plans change or internet access becomes critical.

Why Jetpac Ranks #1 Overall

Jetpac is the best eSIM for China in 2026 because it focuses on real travel needs, not just basic data bundles. It’s designed specifically for international travelers who need stable performance, smooth activation, and reliable app access throughout China travel.

Coverage & Network Strength

Jetpac connects to major Chinese networks such as China Unicom and China Telecom, with multi-network switching for stronger and more reliable coverage across major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and even rural regions. This ensures you stay connected whether you're navigating metro systems, booking high-speed trains, or exploring beyond the big cities.

Ratings

4.8

4.3

4.2

Pros & Cons

Pros

• In-app voice calls at just $1.99 for 5 min
• Free access to essential apps like Google Maps, WhatsApp, Uber, and Grab
• Free airport lounge access if the flight is delayed for more than an hour
• Auto-connects to the best available local network
• Works well for multi-country trips with one setup
• Strong connectivity thanks to multi-network support

Cons

• If you only need a quick single-country plan, it may not be the lowest price option

Best for

• Multi-country Europe trips
• First-time eSIM users who want it to just work
• Travelers who want backup features, not just data

Download the Jetpac App

Stay connected in 200+ destinations with instant eSIM activation, transparent pricing, and seamless global data.

#2. Holafly

Holafly is another popular best eSIM provider for China travel in 2026, especially known for its unlimited, day-based data plans. You simply choose the number of days you need, install the eSIM before or during your trip, and activate it when you land in China. 

Key features

Plan and coverage

• Data pack starts with $3.90 for 1 day
• Offers customised unlimited data packs up to 90 days

Network and speed

• Supports 4G/5G networks
• Connects to Orange/ Movistar / Vodafone España / Yoigo

Setup and usage

• Install via app or QR code, quick setup
• Activates on arrival when you turn on the eSIM at your destination
• Hotspot sharing is limited to 500 MB per day

Support and refunds

• 24/7 support via online chat
• Refund window: up to 6 months to request a refund (conditions apply)

Ratings

• Rated 4.6 on Trustpilot, 4.7 on Playstore, and 4.8 on App Store

Pros and cons

Pros

• Free access to WhatsApp, iMessage, and Facebook 
• Easy setup and wider network connectivity
• Strong and good customer feedback

Cons

• Hotspot sharing is restricted to 1 GB/day, so it is not ideal for laptop-heavy tasks or family sharing
• No voice calls, data only plans available
• Coverage can be weaker outside urban areas

#3. Saily

Saily is another one of the best eSIM providers for China travel in 2026, designed for simple and reliable internet abroad. It offers easy setup and stable coverage, making it suitable for short trips and light data users during China travel. 

Key features

Plans and pricing

• Basic plan starts from US$4.49 for 1GB of data for 7 days.
• Data plans start from 1 GB to 20 GB or unlimited (durations vary by plan)
• Data speed for unlimited plan - 5 GB per day at full speed, then unlimited at up to 1 Mbps

Coverage and network

• Coverage across China
• Speeds depend on local providers: 3G/4G/LTE/5G
• Uses local network providers for stable connectivity

Set up and activation

• Instant delivery: QR code by email if bought on the website, or shows in-app if bought in the app
• Auto-activation on arrival in the first included country (with eSIM on + roaming enabled)
• Activation window: 30-day activation period (auto-activates if you do not activate within the window)

Hotspot and top-ups

• Hotspot sharing: unlimited
• Top-ups in the app; optional auto top-up for smoother continuity when data runs out

Calls, texts, and security

• Data-only eSIM: calls and messages only via apps like WhatsApp, Viber, Signal
• Built-in privacy tools: virtual location, ad blocker, web protection

Ratings

• Rated 4.7 on Trustpilot, Play Store, and App Store

Pros and cons

Pros

• Affordable pricing for China plans
• Unlimited hotspot sharing
• Built-in ad blocker and web protection are genuinely useful on public Wi-Fi
• Auto-activation on arrival
• You get 3% back as Saily credits on any data pack purchases

Cons

• The “Unlimited” plan is not unlimited full-speed: it is 5 GB/day at full speed, then slower (up to 1 Mbps)
• Data-only plans, no voice calling.
• If you do not activate your purchased eSIM within 30 days, it will automatically activate.

NOTE: Saily app may have limited access in China due to local restrictions, so set up your eSIM before you travel to ensure your data works.

#4. Airalo

Airalo is one of the best eSIM providers for China travel for travelers in 2026, who prefer smaller data plans and flexible top-ups. It’s another best eSIMs for China in 2026 for short trips or light data plans.

Key features

Plans and pricing

• Basic plan starts at $4 for 3 days
• Data plans available up to 30 days, up to 20 GB, or unlimited up to 30 days

Coverage and network

• Works across cities in China
• Uses local partner networks (China Unicom)

Set up and activation

• Fully digital setup via app
• Validity starts when the eSIM connects to a supported network in the coverage area

Top-ups and everyday use

• Top-ups are available, so you can add more data if you run low
• Data-only service for these regional plans is the norm, so calls and texts typically happen through apps like WhatsApp

Ratings

Rated 3.9 on Trustpilot, 4.4 on the Play Store, and 4.6 on the App Store

Pros and cons

Pros

• Good range of plan sizes, including small starter plans and bigger unlimited data packs
• Wide coverage across China

Cons

• No “extras” bundled in, only data plans available

How We Chose the Best eSIMs for China

​​We selected the best eSIM providers for China travel based on what actually matters on a real trip: stable connectivity across cities, no frustrating data limits, smooth activation, and responsive support when something goes wrong.

When choosing the best eSIM for China in 2026, price alone is not enough. We also evaluated practical features that genuinely improve the China travel experience, especially important in a country with unique internet regulations (this is where Jetpac stands out).

Is an eSIM Worth It for China Travel?

In most cases, yes. If you want to avoid roaming charges, skip SIM store queues, and stay connected from the moment you land, an eSIM is the easiest solution for China travel.

eSIM vs Roaming

When comparing eSIM vs Roaming, Roaming is convenient but expensive and often unpredictable. Speeds may be slower, and hidden charges are common. An eSIM for China is prepaid and transparent. You know exactly what you are paying before you travel to China.

eSIM vs Physical SIM

When comparing eSIM vs physical SIM, A physical SIM can sometimes be cheaper, but it comes with friction:

• Finding a store
• Showing ID
• Swapping SIM cards
• Risking misplacing your home SIM

An eSIM is fully digital:

• No store visits
• No SIM swapping
• Ideal for multi-city China travel

eSIM vs Pocket Wi-Fi

Pocket Wi-Fi works for groups but adds complexity:

• An extra device to carry and charge
• Pick-up and return logistics
• Risk of damage or loss fees

An eSIM keeps things simple:

• One device
• Share via hotspot when allowed
• No extra hardware

When an eSIM Is the Better Option

An eSIM is usually the best choice for China travel if:

• You are visiting multiple cities
• You want the setup completed before you fly
• You rely on maps, translation apps, and transport apps
• You prefer clear prepaid pricing
• You want the best eSIM for China in 2026 without roaming surprises

When an eSIM May Not Be Worth It

Skip an eSIM for China if:

• Your phone is not eSIM compatible
• You are staying long-term, and a local Spanish SIM is significantly cheaper
• You will rely entirely on hotel Wi-Fi
• You need a local Spanish phone number for SMS (many travel eSIMs are data-only)

Quick Decision Checklist

Choose the best eSIM for China if you want:

• Setup before China travel
• Easy city-to-city connectivity
• No roaming bill shock
• No physical SIM swapping
• A reliable backup connection while exploring

Best eSIM for China by Travel Type

1. Best eSIM for Backpacking in China

Backpacking often means moving between cities and spending long days out exploring. The best eSIM for China travel for backpackers needs to work reliably across major cities and rural areas. Jetpac is the safest choice because it performs consistently nationwide and keeps essential apps working even if data runs low.

2. Best eSIM for Digital Nomads in China

If you’re working while traveling, stable speeds and hotspot access are critical. Jetpac remains the best eSIM for China in 2026 for digital nomads thanks to multi-network reliability, 4G/5G support, and unlimited hotspot sharing on eligible plans.

3. Best eSIM for Short China Trips

If you’re visiting for just a few days and need light data usage, Airalo works well with smaller prepaid plans and easy top-ups. It’s a practical option among the best eSIMs for China for short stays.

4. Best eSIM for Families Traveling to China

Families rely heavily on maps, ride apps, and constant messaging. Jetpac is the best eSIM for travel to China for families because hotspot sharing is simple, and backup features reduce stress when plans change.

5. Best eSIM for Multi-City China Travel

If your China travels include Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Chengdu, and beyond, you need one setup that works everywhere. Jetpac offers the smoothest cross-city experience and is widely considered the best eSIM provider for China for multi-destination itineraries.

6. Best eSIM for Solo Travelers

When you travel to China alone, losing connectivity can be stressful. Jetpac remains the best eSIM for China for solo travelers thanks to built-in safeguards and 24/7 support.

FAQs

What is the best eSIM to use in China?

The best eSIM for China in 2026 is one that offers strong nationwide coverage, smooth activation, and reliable app access. Jetpac currently ranks as the best eSIM for China travel because it supports major Chinese networks, includes multi-network switching, and provides traveler-focused features like hotspot sharing and 24/7 support.

Can I use WhatsApp in China with an eSIM?

Yes, but only with the right setup. A properly configured best eSIM for travel to China typically routes traffic through international networks, allowing access to apps like WhatsApp without needing a separate VPN. This is why activating your eSIM before landing is critical for smooth China travel.

Which eSIM can bypass China’s firewall?

Most international travel eSIMs, including the best eSIM provider for China options, route traffic through overseas gateways. This means you can access global apps without using a local Chinese SIM. However, setup must be completed before arrival, as some provider apps may be restricted inside mainland China.

How can foreigners use the internet in China?

Foreign travelers typically use either roaming (expensive), pocket Wi-Fi, or an international eSIM. The best eSIMs for China in 2026 offer prepaid data, easier activation, and more predictable costs compared to roaming.

Is there a better eSIM than Airalo?

Airalo is a solid option for short stays. However, many travelers consider Jetpac the best eSIM for China overall due to additional features like essential app access after data runs out, in-app calling, unlimited hotspot sharing, and multi-network reliability.

What is the “3-hour rule” in China?

There is no official “3-hour rule” related to internet or eSIM usage in China. Travelers sometimes confuse this with transit visa policies, but it has nothing to do with connectivity or choosing the best eSIM for China travel.

Can I use my US phone in China?

Yes, as long as your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM. To avoid high roaming charges, installing the best eSIM for travel to China in 2026 before departure is strongly recommended.

Why does my eSIM not work in China?

Common reasons include installing it after landing, not enabling data roaming, or incomplete activation. To avoid issues, always set up the best eSIM for China travel before arrival and ensure your device is eSIM-compatible.

Disclaimer

Information in this article is for general guidance only. All pricing, features, speeds, network access, coverage quality, hotspot policies, unlimited plan limits, ratings, refund terms, and availability details are accurate as of 13 February 2026 at the time of writing and may change without notice. China has unique internet controls, so access to apps and provider apps can vary, and performance may depend on routing, device settings, location, and local network conditions. Always set up your eSIM before arrival and verify the latest plan details on the official provider website before purchasing.