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Internet in China: use a roaming eSIM, skip the VPN
Data that routes through your home country, so Google, LINE, KakaoTalk, Instagram and WhatsApp all work normally. No VPN needed.
Do this at home
Buy from Airalo, Ubigi or your own carrier's roaming plan and install the eSIM at home. Activate it on the plane. Hotel Wi-Fi is a local network, so switch back to data when you need Google.
What it replaces
A local SIM card and a VPN
A roaming eSIM: https://www.airalo.com/
Also useful
Google Translate
翻译LanguagePoint the camera at a menu, a sign, a ticket machine. The camera mode is the single most useful thing you will do with your phone here.
- Do this at home
- Download the Chinese offline pack before you fly. On a Chinese network Google is blocked, so the offline pack is what keeps the camera working if your roaming drops.
- What it replaces
- Asking someone who does not speak your language
Before you fly
Will my phone work? Google, LINE, KakaoTalk?
On local networks they are blocked. Buy an international roaming eSIM before you leave (Ubigi, Airalo, or your carrier's roaming). Traffic routes through your home country and everything works without a VPN. Hotel Wi-Fi is a local network, so switch back to mobile data when you need Google Maps.
Related guides
Do you need a visa?
Check your passport against China's official lists.