To get unrestricted internet access in China, my friend and I used an eSIM with VPN. There are a lot of good options available, but we decided to go with this award-winning 5G eSIM powered by China Unicom. It comes with a military-grade VPN (free for automatic renewals), mobile hotspot, and easy one-click setup. Book the same China eSIM here with our promo code TRAVLISTS to get 30% off. (Alternatively, you can get this China eSIM with free VPN and unlimited data for iPhones. Get $6 off with our coupon code TRAVLISTS2025.)
In a nutshell
- Best China eSIM provider. BNESIM, voted five times as the World’s Best Travel SIM Provider since 2019, is our team’s top pick. Their China eSIM starts at only $3.7 and offers 5G connectivity. They also have a military-grade VPN for iPhones and Android phones that you can get for free when you purchase an eSIM here. (If you only want the military-grade VPN with no data, you can purchase a VPN subscription here.)
- China eSIMs with VPN. Prepaid eSIMs that will let you bypass internet restrictions in China include Yesim (free VPN for iOS, unlimited data plans, & 24/7 support), Klook, and this eSIM from the makers of NordVPN.
- Do Airalo eSIMs have VPN? While not indicated on their website, our team has confirmed with Airalo that their China eSIMs can bypass restricted websites and apps, except TikTok. Learn more and buy their China eSIM here with our 15% discount code TRAVLISTS15.
- Award-winning standalone VPN for travel. If you want to use a separate VPN service for multiple phones, laptops, and tablets, you can get this travel VPN for up to 10 devices. This premium VPN, which will work with any data eSIM of your choice, will let you access Gmail, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and other sites that are forbidden in China.
Also read: Get China’s T-Union Card: Transportation Pass for Beijing, Shanghai, & 300+ Cities
Quick Book
China eSIM Data Plans with Promo Codes
5G China eSIM with VPN & Phone Number by BNESIM
• NETWORK: China Mobile
• FEATURES: Military-grade VPN for iOS and Android (set up via the app), mobile hotspot, optional international phone number, cashback, referral rewards, one-click installation, & 24/7 support
• OTHER SERVICES: BNE Guard VPN (standalone VPN)
🏆 5x World’s Best Travel SIM Provider
5G China eSIM with VPN & Unlimited Data by Yesim
• NETWORK: China Unicom
• FEATURES: Free VPN for iPhones, mobile hotspot, cashback, referral program, optional virtual phone number, guaranteed refund, & 24/7 customer service
♾️ Travlists’ Choice for Unlimited Data
5G China eSIM with VPN & Unlimited Data by Airalo
• NETWORK: China Unicom
• FEATURES: Free trial, mobile hotspot, built-in VPN for iOS and Android (able to bypass restricted websites like Google, Gmail, Facebook, etc.), & tiered cashback offers
🥇 World’s First eSIM Store
4G/5G China eSIM with VPN & Unlimited Data by Klook
• NETWORK: China Unicom & China Telecom
• FEATURES: Mobile hotspot, easy in-app installation, built-in VPN (instant unrestricted internet access with no VPN connection required), & cashback (Klook Cash)
4G/5G China eSIM with VPN & Unlimited Data by Jetpac
• NETWORK: China Unicom & China Mobile
• FEATURES: Built-in VPN for iOS and Android, SmartDelay (free airport lounge access in case of flight delay), offline access to essential apps (Google Maps, WhatsApp, & Uber), & up to 40% discount on regular airport lounge passes
4G/5G China eSIM with VPN by Instabridge
• NETWORK: China Unicom & China Mobile
• FEATURES: Free VPN for Android smartphones, mobile hotspot for up to 10 devices, access to Instabridge’s data-saving browser, & access to 20 million global WiFi hotspots powered by Instabridge
5G China eSIM with VPN by Saily
• FEATURES: Powerful security features including ad blocker, tracker blocker, web protection, location changer, malicious site blocker, and more
🔒 From the makers of NordVPN
5G China eSIM with VPN by Nomad
• NETWORK: China Unicom & China Telecom
• FEATURES: VPN for iOS and Android & 24/7 customer service available via chat and email
5G China eSIM with Phone Number by aloSIM
• NETWORK: China Mobile
• FEATURES: Free international phone number, $1 credit for calls and texts, mobile hotspot, cashback, & 24/7 customer support
4G/5G China eSIM with Calls by Airhub
• NETWORK: China Unicom
• FEATURES: International phone number, 15 minutes worth of local calls in China, mobile hotspot, family bundle discount (limited-time), advanced eSIM technology, 24/7 customer service
4G/5G China eSIM with Unlimited Data by Ubigi
• NETWORK: China Telecom
• FEATURES: Mobile hotspot, Smartstart, reusable eSIM, offline top-up, & referral rewards
4G/5G China eSIM by World eSIM
• NETWORK: China Mobile
• FEATURES: Simple installation ideal for first-time eSIM users & referral program
✅ From the Makers of Ninja WiFi, Japan’s No. 1 Rental Pocket WiFi
Best Overall eSIM Provider for Mainland China
Before taking our trip to Beijing and Shanghai, my friend and I downloaded the BNESIM app. This eSIM provider has affordable data plans that come with a military-grade VPN, which is what we were looking for to bypass the Great Wall. We needed access to websites and services from Google (Gmail, Google Search, YouTube), Meta (Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp), and more. Hence, this was an easy choice.
Before Travlists became a content partner of BNESIM, we were already avid fans of the brand. They are a five-time World Travel SIM Provider awardee that offers the following great features for leisure and business travelers:
- Military-grade VPN (setup available by downloading the app)
- One-click installation
- Mobile hotspot
- Optional international phone number with calls
- Refer-a-friend program: Get 2 BNE Coins (worth €2) for every successful referral
- 5% cashback
- 24/7 customer support
What’s more, BNESIM offers a 30% discount to our readers. Get this offer by using our promo code TRAVLISTS below:
China eSIMs with Unlimited Data & VPN
Aside from BNESIM, there are a couple of providers that offer VPN to help travelers browse the internet in China. These include:
| PROVIDER | PLAN | PRICE |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Yesim | 1-30 days + free VPN for iPhones | Book from $6 ➜ |
| 2. Airalo | 10 days + built-in VPN for iOS & Android | Book from $35 ➜ |
| 3. Jetpac | 7-10 days + built-in VPN for iOS & Android | Book from $34.99 ➜ |
| 4. Klook | 3-15 days + built-in VPN for iOS & Android | Book from $10.65 ➜ |
| 5. Ubigi | 7 or 30 days | Book from $26 ➜ |
| 6. Nomad | 3-10 days | Book from $12 ➜ |
| 7. World eSIM | 1-30 days | Book from $6.9 ➜ |
Among these options, we recommend Yesim. They are the first eSIM provider to offer both unlimited data eSIMs with free VPN. They also offer cashback, a guaranteed refund policy, and up to 50% discount with our Yesim promo code TRAVLISTS2025.)
Award-winning Standalone VPN from NordVPN
If you will be visiting China and need an internet connection for your smartphone, laptop, or tablet, or if you are traveling with family or friends who also need a VPN for secure and unrestricted access, you can get NordVPN instead. This standalone VPN product (not an eSIM) comes with high-speed VPN for up to 10 devices, as well as these features:
- Access the web securely and freely for up to 10 devices
- Anti-malware protection
- Ad and tracker blocker
- High-speed VPN
- Data breach scanner
NordVPN is an external VPN that does not come with an eSIM data plan (though they may have limited-time offers with Saily eSIMs).
China eSIM with Phone Number
Need to make calls while you travel in China? We recommend getting this travel eSIM with a free international phone number from aloSIM. While it does not come with a local China-based number with a dialing code +86, you can still make calls and send texts locally and around the world. (You will get a $1 credit for calls and texts.)
Do China eSIMs from Airalo have VPN?
Yes! While not explicitly stated on their website, we have confirmed directly with a representative of Airalo that their China eSIMs allow travelers to browse restricted websites and apps in China (except for TikTok).
Bestselling eSIM for China on Klook
If you prefer to purchase your travel eSIM and other essentials on Klook, you’d be delighted to know that their eSIM for China allows unrestricted browsing as well. Klook’s innovative eSIM, which can be installed without scanning a QR code, does not need a VPN connection. This means you can bypass the Great Wall instantly; simply activate your eSIM and browse safely and securely.
- Shanghai Airport Transfer (10k+ booked)
- Beijing Airport Transfer (9k+ booked)
- Mainland China Bus & Metro Card (3k+ booked)
- Oriental Pearl Tower (50k+ booked)
- Temple of Heaven (10k+ booked)
- The Old Summer Palace (4k+ booked)
- Shanghai Disneyland (1M+ booked)
- Universal Studios Beijing (300k+ booked)
- Beijing Palace Museum (The Forbidden City) (80k+ booked)
Top China eSIM Providers with Reviews
We know how it can get difficult to book travel essentials for your trip. You would want the best one at the best possible price. To help you decide which one to get, we share quick information about the best providers of China eSIM with VPN, unlimited data, and phone numbers below.
1. Jetpac
Get Jetpac and enjoy fast internet connection in China and complimentary airport lounge access in case of flight delays! What we like best about this eSIM provider is that they offer an economical $1-for-1GB data plan as well as flexible top-up options.
- PRICE: Book here starting at $4!
- WHAT YOU’LL GET: 1-30GB data redeemable within 1 year, validity of 30 days once connected to an overseas network (unless otherwise stated), free lounge access in case of a flight delay (registration required), & nationwide coverage in China
- DEVICE COMPATIBILITY: iPhones, iPad Mini, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, and other Android phones. View the full list here.
- HOW TO USE:
- Book your China eSIM data plan here.
- Download the app and install your eSIM.
- Turn on data roaming before your trip.
- Get connected instantly upon arrival.
- BEST REVIEW: “The pack offered by Jetpac was reasonably priced. It is very convenient, since no physical cards are needed, only an eSIM. It was also very easy to connect to roaming operators.”
2. BNESIM (Powered by China Unicom)
30% off promo code: TRAVLISTS • USE CODE ➜
Moving on to our preferred eSIM when traveling — BNESIM. They are a global eSIM provider that rose to fame when they bagged the World’s Best Travel SIM Provider award not just once but for five times. Known for its best-value data plans, easy 1-click installation, strong coverage, and referral program, this is one of the best China eSIMs you can find. Their virtual SIM card seamlessly connects to local networks, so you can expect to have a consistent and fast data connection whether you’re staying in a city or exploring the countryside.
- PRICE: Book here starting at $2.07
- WHAT YOU’LL GET: 250MB-20GB worth of high-speed data, validity period of 7-30 days for plans (You can also get any of the pay-as-you-go data packs, which DO NOT expire!), mobile hotspot function, responsive customer support team, & nationwide coverage in China powered by China Unicom
- DEVICE COMPATIBILITY: This China eSIM works well with iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, iPads, and other Android phones.
- HOW TO USE:
- Purchase a data plan here.
- Choose your destination and purchase your data plan.
- Activate your eSIM upon arrival in China!
- BEST REVIEW: “Awesome product backed by a superb team with great customer service skills! A must to have for people who frequently or simply love to travel.”
3. Yesim
$6 discount code: TRAVLISTS2025 • USE CODE ➜
Our next pick is Yesim, known for its China eSIM with VPN and unlimited data. If you are a heavy internet user who prefers secure and non-stop connectivity, then Yesim’s eSIM is the one for you.
- PRICE: Book here from $6
- WHAT YOU’LL GET: Unlimited or fixed data plan with 3-20GB, validity period of 7-30 days, VPN, instant delivery, & nationwide coverage in China
- DEVICE COMPATIBILITY: iPhones, iPads, Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy, and other Android smartphones. Find the full list of devices here.
- HOW TO USE:
- Check your device compatibility here.
- Choose the destination and eSIM data plan.
- Buy an eSIM and follow the installation instructions that you will receive via email.
- BEST REVIEW: “I was very satisfied with using the Yesim app. I had excellent coverage… When I had a question to the Customer Service team, I was helped quickly and kindly. I can recommend Yesim to everyone,” reads a review for Yesim eSIM on TrustPilot.
4. Airalo (Powered by China Mobile)
15% off promo code: TRAVLISTS15 • USE CODE ➜
Our next suggested China eSIM provider is Airalo, the world’s first eSIM marketplace that offers prepaid local and global eSIMs for 200+ countries. If you want to enjoy easy eSIM activation and instant connectivity, you can book one of Airalo’s eSIMs for China. (Oh, and if you need a data eSIM in China with voice and text functions, consider getting their global eSIM here starting at $15!)
- PRICE: Book here starting at only $5 — get 15% off when you use promo code TRAVLISTS15 upon checkout!
- WHAT YOU’LL GET: 1-20GB worth of high-speed data valid for 7-30 days, free trial, mobile hotspot, VPN-like access, & nationwide coverage in Mainland China (powered by Chinacom)
- OPTIONAL: Upgrade to an Airalo Global eSIM with calls and texts + coverage in 130+ countries, including China! Get more details here.
- COMPATIBLE DEVICES: This China eSIM works on iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, and other Android phones. See the full list here.
- HOW TO USE: Simply install and activate your eSIM on the Airalo app.
- BEST REVIEW: “…I visited 4 countries last month, purchased 4 [eSIMs] using [Airalo,] and it couldn’t have been [cheaper] nor easier. The [online chat support] is totally efficient too,” reads a review for Airalo on Trustpilot.
5. Klook (Powered by China Mobile, China Unicom, & China Telecom)
3-5% off promo code: TRAVLISTS • USE CODE ➜
Our team at Travlists also likes Klook’s China eSIM as it comes with a built-in VPN. On Klook’s website, it says that “no VPN connection is required”. This does not mean that there’s no VPN provided — it denotes that you won’t need to get a separate or standalone VPN. With Klook’s eSIM, you will be able to bypass any internet restrictions in the Mainland. (If you are looking for an eSIM that works in China, Hong Kong, and Macau, you can buy one here from $0.8!)
- PRICE: Book here starting at $0.95
- WHAT YOU’LL GET: Unlimited data for 3-15 days or 1-20GB for 7-30 days, mobile hotspot, simple in-app installation, built-in VPN (instant unrestricted internet access with no VPN connection required), cashback, & nationwide coverage powered by China Unicom and China Telecom
- COMPATIBLE DEVICES: iOS and Android smartphones
- HOW TO USE: Book a fixed or unlimited data plan here and install the eSIM on the Klook app. You can also scan the eSIM QR code to proceed with setup.
- BEST REVIEW: “…I used the 5G eSIM China from Klook during my trip… it worked perfectly across major [cities] like Shenzhen. Setup was easy,” reads a review on Klook.
6. Instabridge
20% off promo code: TRAV20 • USE CODE ➜
If Yesim offers China eSIMs with VPN for iPhones, Instabridge provides data eSIMs with VPN for Android smartphones. But that’s not all there is about Instabridge. With their eSIM, you will be able to connect up to 10 devices online via mobile hotspot, which is great if your personal devices or your friends and family need internet connection.
- PRICE: Book here starting at $2.5
- WHAT YOU’LL GET: Free VPN for Android smartphones, mobile hotspot for up to 10 devices, access to Instabridge’s data-saving browser, access to 20 million global WiFi hotspots powered by Instabridge, & nationwide coverage powered by China Mobile and China Unicom
- COMPATIBLE DEVICES: iPhone, iPad, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, Huawei, Xiaomi, Oppo, Motorola, Sony, Sharp, Gemini, Fairphone, Doogee, Oneplus, Hammer, Nokia, myPhone, Vivo, Oukitel, & Nuu
- HOW TO USE: Install the China eSIM on the app.
- BEST REVIEW: “It [worked,] but it would be good if they offer unlimited data too…”
7. Saily
5% off promo code: TRAVLISTS • USE CODE ➜
From NordVPN, the company known for its advanced web security features, we have Saily. This high-speed and reliable eSIM provider not only offers affordable data plans for China but also a location switcher (VPN) and ad-blocking tools. This gives their users an enhanced internet experience when traveling by providing access to forbidden websites in China. Our team at Travlists also recommends Saily for its simple-to-install embedded SIM cards, which are perfect for first-time users.
- PRICE: Book here starting at only $4.99
- WHAT YOU’LL GET: 1-20GB for 7-30 days, FREE powerful security features (ad blocker, tracker blocker, web protection, location changer, malicious site blocker, and more), mobile hotspot, 24/7 support, referral program, & nationwide coverage in China
- DEVICE COMPATIBILITY: iPhone, Samsung, Google, Huawei, Xiaomi, Motorola, Oppo, Sony, Nokia, Rakuten, Nuu, Sharp, Surface, Honor, Fairphone,m OnePlus, Hammer, Vivo, T-Mobile, TCL, etc.
- HOW TO USE: Purchase your data plan here, install the eSIM on your iOS or Android device, and activate upon arrival.
- BEST REVIEW: “Simple to set up… worked seamlessly,” reads a review on Trustpilot.
8. Nomad
5% off promo code: TRAVLISTS • USE CODE ➜
Travelers choose Nomad not just for their affordable eSIM data plans with 4G/5G speeds, but also for their solid VPN feature and world-class customer service. With so many China eSIM options available, you’d definitely want a provider that can help you bypass restricted sites in China and one that you can contact if you need to troubleshoot your eSIM. Other things that we love about Nomad are that they also have a smart and lightweight app where eSIM installation is a breeze, and topping up is very user-friendly. (If you’re looking for an eSIM that works with iPads, Samsung Galaxy books, and other laptops and tablets, you can use Nomad, which supports a wide range of devices.)
- PRICE: Book here starting at $4
- WHAT YOU’LL GET: Unlimited or fixed 1-90GB data valid for 7-90 days, VPN, 24/7 customer service, mobile hotspot, & nationwide connection powered by China Unicom & China Mobile
- DEVICE COMPATIBILITY: The China eSIM from Nomad works well with iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, Huawei, Oppo, Sony, Motorola, Gemini, Rakuten, Honor, Hammer, Nokia, and other smartphones. Their eSIM can also be used in tablets (iPads & Samsung Galaxy Tab) and laptops (Acer, Asus, Samsung Galaxy Book, etc.). See the full list here.
- HOW TO USE:
- Purchase your China eSIM with VPN here.
- Install the eSIM with a single click or by scanning a QR code.
- Turn on your eSIM at your destination.
- BEST REVIEW: “I bought a 30-day eSIM for my trip to China and made sure to set it up and enable data roaming before arriving. It worked flawlessly in Xi’an, Zhangjiajie, Chongqing, and Chengdu. I had no issues accessing all my usual…sites, including Google. I’ll definitely use Nomad again for my next trip,” reads a review for Nomad eSIM for China on TrustPilot.
9. Ubigi (Powered by China Telecom)
Up next is Ubigi, one of the leading eSIM providers loved by travelers! Getting Ubigi is recommended if you want to stay connected with blazing fast speeds during your holiday or business trip in Mainland China. With Ubigi, you can also enjoy instant and reliable internet connection and the ability to share your data with others. Moreover, Ubigi’s eSIM can be reused across more than 200 countries (with 40+ countries supporting 5G speeds)!
- PRICE & PROMO CODE: Book here starting at only $8 — use our Ubigi promo code TRAVLISTS upon checkout to get 10% off!
- WHAT YOU’LL GET: 1-10GB fixed data allocation valid for 7-30 days, digital SIM card, mobile hotspot (share your data!), eSIM reusability in 200+ countries, instant set-up, & easy top-up (offline top-up available — a feature unique to Ubigi eSIMs!)
- DEVICE COMPATIBILITY: iPhones, iPads, Google Pixel, Samsung, Sony, Oppo, Xiaomi, Rakuten, and Windows laptops. Find the full list of devices here.
- HOW TO USE:
- After booking, you will instantly receive an email with your China eSIM QR code.
- Just before your trip and within 6 months of purchase: scan the QR code (or enter manually the activation code) to install the China eSIM by Ubigi and start your data plan.
- For iPhones, Samsung, and other Android phones: Scan the QR code, download the Ubigi app, turn off Wi-Fi, turn on Ubigi connectivity to create your account, and check data usage.
- For Windows 10 or 11 laptops: After activating your QR code, go to ubigi.me, switch off Wi-Fi, switch on Ubigi connectivity to create your account, and check data usage!
- BEST REVIEW: “Easy to use. Worked as advertised. Definitely a better option than roaming,” reads a review for Ubigi eSIM on TrustPilot.
10. GigSky
GigSky is the world’s first eSIM-based mobile network operator selected by Visa and Apple as their official partner. This reliable China eSIM provider has affordable data plans covering 200+ destinations across the world, which means you can reuse and top up your eSIM for your future trips. What’s more, they’re the only ones in the market that offers a free data plan — yes, it costs $0 — so you can try their service without shelling out any money first!
- PRICE: Book here for $0 — free 100 MB data valid for 7 days!
- OTHER DATA PLANS: After consuming your free data, top up your eSIM with 1-10GB of data starting at only $5.99! Browse all plans here.
- COMPATIBLE DEVICES. This China eSIM works perfectly with iPhones, iPads (cellular), Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, and other Android smartphones. View the full list here.
- WHAT TRAVLISTS LOVE: We like that GigSky, a network operator and not just an eSIM reseller, has tons of cool features including their partnership with Apple and Visa, easy set-up and activation, 24/7 customer support, in-flight and offshore connectivity, referral program, and their free data plan. 🌟
- HOW TO BUY & USE THIS CHINA eSIM:
- Book a free or standard data plan on GigSky here.
- Install and activate your eSIM in a few taps.
- Connect online the moment you arrive.
- BEST REVIEW: “Great service and excellent technical support when needed. Makes traveling easy,” reads a customer review for GigSky eSIM in China.
BONUS: Regional eSIMs
1. China, Hong Kong, & Macau eSIM
Traveling to Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau? You can get a single eSIM that works well in these countries!
- PRICE: Book here starting at $8.1 (vs. regular price of $8.3)
- WHAT YOU’LL GET: 500MB worth of high-speed data per day or fixed, validity period of 5-15 days, & coverage in Mainland China, Hong Kong, nd Macau
- HOW TO USE:
- You will receive your Mainland China eSIM QR code within 1 day.
- Follow the instructions that will come with the QR code to set up your eSIM.
- BEST REVIEW: “Fast and reliable data. Easy to set up…”
2. South Korea, Japan, & China eSIM
Discover Seoul, Tokyo, Beijing, and other cities in East Asia with this 3-in-1 Nomad eSIM for China, Japan, & South Korea!
- PRICE: Book here starting at $4
- WHAT YOU’LL GET: 1-20GB worth of high-speed data valid for 7-45 days & coverage in Mainland China, South Korea, & Japan
- HOW TO USE:
- Purchase your 3-in-1 East Asia eSIM with VPN here.
- Install the eSIM with a single click or by scanning a QR code.
- Turn on your eSIM at your destination.
- BEST REVIEW: “Extremely easy to activate. [The eSIM] worked flawlessly…”
