Best eSIMs for China — VPN Included
Without a VPN, you cannot access Google, Gmail, Instagram, WhatsApp, Facebook, YouTube, X (Twitter), or most Western news sites in mainland China.
The simplest fix is a VPN-enabled eSIM. You install it before you fly, activate when you land, and everything works. No app downloads, no fiddling with settings.
Three good options as of 2026.
Saily — best overall
Owned by NordVPN. Reliable, includes a built-in VPN that works for all the blocked apps. Plans from $9 (1GB / 7 days) to $50 (20GB / 30 days).
Activation is just QR code scanning. Works on iPhone XS or newer (and most Android phones from 2019+).
BambooSIM — cheapest
China-focused eSIM provider. From $5 for 3GB / 5 days. The VPN works but is slower than Saily''s during peak hours.
Good if you''re only there for a long weekend.
Holafly — unlimited data
$50 for unlimited data over 15 days. The VPN built-in works. Best for digital nomads or anyone who plans to stream/work heavily.
Setup checklist (do this BEFORE you land)
- Buy the eSIM at home.
- Install the QR code in your phone (Settings → Mobile → Add eSIM).
- Don''t activate yet — most plans start the timer when you turn it on.
- When you land, switch off your home SIM and turn on the eSIM.
- Make sure VPN is enabled in the eSIM provider''s app.
- Test by opening Google. If it loads, you''re good.
What about WiFi?
Hotel WiFi in China does not bypass the firewall. Even at international 5-star hotels. Some VPNs work over hotel WiFi (ExpressVPN, NordVPN), but eSIM is more reliable.
Don''t wait until you land to figure this out. Buy the eSIM tonight.
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