Guide to Buying a Travel SIM Card for China

Buying a SIM card is undoubtedly a must-have item on any checklist when traveling abroad. For those planning a trip to China, you’re likely wondering which type of China travel SIM card to choose or where to buy one.

Let Vietjet help you explore the details of China travel SIM cards so you can enjoy a smooth and complete journey!

Helpful information about China travel SIM cards will make your trip to China even more seamless and fulfilling!

1. The Need for a Travel SIM Card in China

Just like traveling in other countries, you’ll need a China travel SIM card—issued by local Chinese telecom providers. These SIM cards come pre-activated with mobile service, allowing you to access the internet, make calls, and send messages throughout your stay in China. However, they are only usable within Chinese territory and cannot be used once you're back in Vietnam.

To use a Chinese SIM card, you’ll need to register it with a Chinese number using a Chinese ID or passport (visa). Alternatively, you can also opt for international roaming to make calls or access the internet while in China.

Internet is essential for your trip to China. Understanding how a China 4G SIM card works will help ensure a smooth travel experience.

2. Overview of China Travel SIM Cards

2.1 Major Telecom Providers Offering China 4G SIM Cards

Currently, the three largest telecom providers in China offer travel SIM cards for tourists with wide coverage and high-speed connectivity across the country:

China Mobile: China’s largest telecom operator with extensive network coverage and strong service quality. China Mobile offers various China travel SIM card packages to suit different usage needs.
China Unicom: The second-largest provider in China, with widespread 4G/5G coverage. China Unicom also provides attractive travel SIM options for tourists.
China Telecom: The third-largest telecom company in China, known for competitive pricing. China Telecom also offers various travel SIM card plans; however, they only support 4G SIMs on domestic phone models. Thus, this may not be an ideal choice for foreign tourists.

2.2 Which China Travel SIM Card Should You Choose?

With the three options above, you might feel unsure about which China 4G SIM card to pick. Based on experience, your choice should depend on your travel itinerary and specific needs:

Choose a China Mobile SIM: Ideal for travelers visiting multiple regions in China, especially remote or rural areas. China Mobile generally offers better coverage than the other two providers. However, its SIM cards tend to have lower speeds—limited to EDGE (up to 320KB/s).
Choose a China Unicom SIM: Recommended for those visiting major cities and provinces. China Unicom ensures faster internet speeds and more stable connections.
Important Note: Always make sure to buy a China travel SIM card rather than a local domestic Chinese SIM. Domestic SIM cards are restricted by China’s Firewall policy and won’t support popular services and platforms like Google, Facebook, YouTube, Zalo, etc.

Depending on your trip and your needs, you can choose one of the three China travel SIM card providers mentioned above.

See more: What is an international travel SIM card? How to buy and use it

3. Where to Buy a China Travel SIM Card?

3.1 Buying a China Travel SIM Card at the Airport

This is one option for purchasing a China travel SIM card. At the airport, you can easily find counters selling China 4G SIM cards from major carriers such as China Mobile, China Telecom, and China Unicom. These service counters offer a wide range of SIM card types and plans to choose from.

However, this is not the most optimal method for travelers because buying a China travel SIM card directly within China can be complicated and time-consuming.

According to regulations, non-Chinese citizens are required to provide full documentation such as a passport, national ID, or other forms of identification when purchasing a China 4G SIM card. Additionally, you’ll need to have cash prepared to pay.

You can easily buy a China 4G SIM card from major providers like China Mobile, China Telecom, or China Unicom at the airport.

3.2 Buying a SIM Card at a Chinese Carrier Store

Purchasing directly from official telecom stores in China is another option. However, this is often just as difficult as buying at the airport.

Usually, only the major flagship stores of telecom providers accept passport registration for foreign nationals. Another inconvenience is payment—most Chinese SIM card stores now only accept digital payments through platforms like Alipay or Chinese bank accounts. On top of that, the language barrier may make it more difficult and inconvenient to buy a SIM card in person.

3.3 Buying a China Travel SIM Card in Vietnam

Compared to the two options above, purchasing a China 4G SIM card in Vietnam offers many advantages for travelers. You can buy a China travel SIM card from travel agencies or websites specializing in travel SIM cards. When buying, you’ll also need to provide your visa information so third parties can activate the SIM card for you.

Note: It’s important to choose reputable providers to avoid the risk of personal data leaks. Trusted sellers also offer better service and provide detailed instructions on how to use the SIM card once you arrive in China.

3.4 Registering for International Roaming

Besides purchasing a China travel SIM card, you can also register for international roaming to access mobile networks and the internet in China. Currently, all mobile carriers in Vietnam offer this service.

The registration process varies by carrier. Generally, you can register from home via mobile apps or websites. Once registered, your SIM card will automatically connect to one of China’s three main carriers when you arrive, allowing you to use mobile data and other services.

4. How Much Does a China SIM Card Cost?

The price of a China travel SIM card varies depending on where you buy it and the plan you choose.

Buying a SIM card at the airport: Prices for China 4G SIM cards at some airports range from 200 to 600 CNY, equivalent to about 700,000 – 2,000,000 VND.
Buying a SIM card at telecom stores: Prices here are more affordable—around 50 CNY (about 180,000 VND). However, this method is less convenient due to language barriers, and you’ll likely need a Chinese bank account for payment.
International roaming charges: While registering for international roaming with Vietnamese carriers is often free, actual usage fees in China will be charged based on your consumption. For example, voice calls are billed per minute, text messages per message, and data usage per MB or GB.To save money, you can register for data-only packages and limit international calls or texts.

Hopefully, the information above about China travel SIM cards and China 4G SIM cards helps you choose the best SIM option for your trip to this vast and beautiful country. To better prepare for your journey, don’t forget to book your plane tickets early to secure your preferred flights and get better deals.

See more: What are the visa requirements for traveling to China?

If you’re still unsure where to buy flight tickets to China, consider Vietjet. Vietjet now operates a variety of direct flights to numerous Chinese destinations, with fares starting from just 490,000 VND.

Also, don’t forget to take advantage of Vietjet’s “0 VND” domestic and international fare promotions available daily from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM!

Get the latest updates on ticket prices, promotions, and useful travel tips via Vietjet’s official channels.