Since the Beijing Olympics in 2008, China has been increasing in popularity with international tourists and there are so many places in the country to go including Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong and X'ian - just to name a few. China has so many world famous tourist attractions that you really need to see at least once in your life including he majestic Great Wall of China, Terracotta Warriors and the Forbidden City.
Using the Internet in China
If you are planning to travel in China having access to the internet will be really helpful for the duration of your trip, no matter if you are travelling for work, business or just leisure.
If you are going to be visiting China, especially if it is your first time, it can be quite daunting. This country is a long way from Europe/North America, and the language and culture can be a shock, especially if you are totally new to Asia.
Having the ability to use your phone and connect to the internet like you do back home is a comfort, especially for getting around, finding places to go, using translation apps, keeping in touch with friends and family, or incase of any emergencies.
Using your home phone network abroad in China can be really expensive, and there still isn't widespread free WIFI, but there are options to gain fast speed internet access in China from your phone.
Two of the best options include Pocket Wifi and eSIM and in this article we will be discussing both options and giving you the low down on which to go for.
What is a Pocket Wifi?
A Pocket WiFi is a portable WiFi router that you can use to connect to the internet wherever you go. Pocket Wifi devices help you to connect several Wi-Fi-enabled devices at once, you can even share it with other people you might be travelling with.
If you plan to be browsing the web, checking emails, update social media or chatting to friends and family, then Pocket Wifi can be a good option to consider using when travelling overseas.
Some disadvantages of Pocket WiFi include having the battery life can not be the best, and also sometimes the connection quality can be poor depending on your location.
What is eSIM card?
eSim is a digital version of the traditional SIM card and it works electronically using a microchip. Instead of having to order and receive a SIM card in the post, you can now just buy an eSIM, scan a QR code and connect to the internet fast anywhere in the world as long as you have a newish model of phone.
Companies offering eSIM in China
Several companies offer international eSIMs for China and Asia.
We recommend Holafly who offer some of the best eSIM for China packages. No matter if you are traveling for a short or long period, you can find a data plan to suit your needs.
Here are the prices for Holaflys short and long term data plans:
- 5 days - Unlimited Data: $19.00
- 10 days - Unlimited Data: $34.00
- 15 days - Unlimited Data: $47.00
- 20 days - Unlimited Data: $54.00
- 30 days - Unlimited Data: $64.00
- 60 days - Unlimited Data: $84.00
- 90 days - Unlimited Data: $99.00
These are some of the benefits of getting an eSIM with Holafly:
- Get unlimited data on your trip to China.
- Easy to setup.
- Includes VPN for unrestricted browsing.
- Keep your WhatsApp number.
- Fast connection to the most popular mobile networks in China.
- Don't need to worry about roaming charges or trying to find public WiFi networks.
How Does eSIM Work?
If you are new to eSIMs, it is a lot easier than you think. Go online, for example to the Holafly website, buy a data plan and then you will receive a QR code to your e-mail. Scan the. QR code and you can setup an account and connect instantly. It really is that simple.
Other eSIM China Companies
Some other companies who offer eSIMs for China include Mobile Hong Kong SmarTone, who offer cheap data plan packages, 1 Card 2 Numbers, voice and data services with one SIM card for China and Hong Kong. Similar to Holafly, it is convenient to make calls and send SMS to HK or China.
Disadvantages of eSIM
Some slight drawbacks for eSIM is the high cost of the latest mobile phones like the Apple iPhone 14 Max. Also some older phone models are not compatible with with eSIM. Check compatible cell phones.
China really is a country that you should think about visiting with so many amazing places to discover. Having the ability to use your phone anywhere in China can give you peace of mind, and also really enhance your trip and make it easier.
