Pick one primary connection and one fallback
Your best option depends on trip length, phone compatibility, need for calls or texts, and whether you want service immediately after landing.
Common options
- International roaming
Fastest to prepare if your carrier supports China and the price is acceptable for a short trip.
- Travel eSIM
Convenient for unlocked, eSIM-compatible phones, often data-only.
- Physical travel SIM
Useful when your phone supports it and delivery arrives before departure.
- Portable Wi-Fi
Shareable for groups, but pickup, battery, and return logistics matter.
- Local SIM
Can be cost-effective for longer stays, but passport registration and store availability vary.
Save offline
- Activation QR code or installation instructions.
- Carrier support chat or help page screenshot.
- Hotel address for Wi-Fi recovery.
- Payment and translation backup steps.
