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 an optional 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 for iPhones. Unlimited data plans start at just $7.7.)
In a nutshell
- Best overall 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 $2 and offers 5G connectivity. They also have a military-grade VPN for iPhones & 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), Nomad, Klook, Instabridge, and this eSIM from the makers of NordVPN.
- Award-winning 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 an unlimited number of devices (currently 86% off with our partner link). 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.
- 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.
Quick Book
China eSIM Data Plans with Promo Codes
5G China eSIM with VPN & Phone Number by BNESIM
• NETWORK: China Unicom
• FEATURES: Mobile hotspot, military-grade VPN for iOS and Android (set up via the app), optional international phone number, cashback, referral program, one-click installation, & 24/7 support
• OTHER SERVICES: BNE Guard VPN
🏆 5x World’s Best Travel SIM Provider
5G China eSIM with VPN & Unlimited Data by Yesim
• NETWORK: China Unicom
• FEATURES: Free VPN for iOS devices, mobile hotspot, cashback, referral program, optional virtual phone number, & 24/7 support
• OTHER SERVICES: Virtual Number
♾️ Travlists’ Choice: Best Unlimited Data eSIM Provider
5G China eSIM with VPN & Unlimited Data by Airalo
• NETWORK: China Unicom
• FEATURES: Free trial, mobile hotspot, instant unrestricted internet access with no VPN connection required (able to bypass restricted websites like Google, Gmail, Facebook, etc.), & cashback
🥇 World’s First eSIM Store
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
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
4G/5G China eSIM with VPN by Klook
• NETWORK: China Unicom & China Telecom
• FEATURES: Instant unrestricted internet access with no VPN connection required & Klook Cash
4G China eSIM with VPN by Saily
• NETWORK: Undisclosed
• FEATURES: Browse with privacy by changing your virtual location and block unwanted ads
🔒 From the makers of NordVPN
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 China eSIM by Ubigi
• NETWORK: China Telecom
• FEATURES: Reusable eSIM, offline top-up, & referral program
4G 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 travel WiFi
4G China eSIM by Airhub
• NETWORK: China Unicom
• FEATURES: 24/7 customer support
Best Overall eSIM Provider for 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:
- One-click installation
- Mobile hotspot
- Military-grade VPN (setup available by downloading the app)
- Optional international phone number with calls (setup available by downloading the app)
- 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 VPN & Unlimited Data Plans
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 (for iPhones) | Book from $7.7 ➜ |
| 2. Airalo | 10 days (for iPhones & Android) | Book from $5 ➜ |
| 3. Nomad | 1-7 days with limited high-speed data (for iPhones & Android) | Book from $4 ➜ |
Among the three options, we recommend Yesim. They are the first eSIM provider to offer both unlimited data eSIMs and free VPN. (Get $5 off when you book here using our Yesim promo code TRAVLISTS2025.)
If you do not necessarily need uncapped data, you can also consider getting the following eSIMs with high-speed data and VPN for China:
Do the China eSIMs from Airalo and Nomad have VPN?
Yes! While not explicitly stated on their website, we have confirmed directly with representatives of both companies that their China eSIMs allow travelers to browse restricted websites and apps in China (except for Tiktok).
Award-winning VPN from Surfshark
If you will visit China for work and need internet connection for your smartphone, laptop, or tablet, or if you are traveling with family or friends that also need a VPN for secure and unrestricted access, you can simply get this VPN-only subscription from SurfShark. It comes with a world-class VPN for an unlimited number of devices that will let you do the following:
- Access the web on an unlimited number of devices
- Protect your identity, including history, account details, and passwords
- Guards your data when connected to a public WiFi
- Webcam protection
- Alerts for attempted hacking or leaking
Surfshark is an external VPN that does not come with an eSIM data plan. Feel free to pair your Surfshark subscription with any China eSIM of your choice.
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.)
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.
Top China eSIM Providers
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 $1!
- 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. Nomad (Powered by China Unicom & China Mobile)
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 is 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 & PROMO CODE: Book here starting at $2.5 — enjoy 5% off with our Nomad eSIM promo code TRAVLISTS
- 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.
3. BNESIM (Powered by China Unicom)
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 4 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 consistent and fast data connection whether you’re staying in a city or exploring the countryside.
- PRICE & PROMO CODE: Book here starting at $2.89! Make sure to use our BNESIM promo code TRAVLISTS upon checkout to get 30% off.
- 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.
- WHAT TRAVLISTS LOVE: One-click eSIM installation, easy top-up, sleek app interface, responsive customer service, & a rewarding refer-a-friend program
- HOW TO BOOK & USE BNESIM’S CHINA eSIM:
- Download the BNESIM app 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.”
4. Yesim
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 & PROMO CODE: Book here starting at only $13 — enjoy €5 off on your first eSIM purchase on Yesim by using promo code TRAVLISTS2025 upon checkout!
- 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.
- WHAT TRAVLISTS LOVE: Unlimited data plans, safe and secure browsing with VPN, suitable for first-time eSIM users, no KYC process required, & reliable customer service
- HOW TO USE:
- Check your device compatibility here.
- Choose the destination and eSIM data plan.
- Buy 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.
5. Instabridge
Need a China eSIM with VPN? Search no further than Instabridge! This popular internet connectivity provider offers free VPN for their users who use an Android smartphone. What’s more, Instabridge eSIM users also get to enjoy perks like a stable internet connection in China, a unique web browser that allows users to save more data, and free WiFi access via Instabridge’s 20 million global hotspots!
- PRICE: Book here starting at around $3.6 — get 10% off when you use promo code TRAVLISTS upon checkout!
- WHAT YOU’LL GET: 1-20GB worth of high-speed data valid for 7-30 days, mobile hotspot for 10 devices, VPN for Android smartphone users, & nationwide coverage in Mainland China
- COMPATIBLE DEVICES. This China eSIM with VPN works well with iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, and other Android phones. See the full list here.
- HOW TO USE INSTABRIDGE’S CHINA eSIM:
- Browse eSIM data plans for the UK here.
- Tap ‘Activate’ to start using your plan.
- BEST REVIEW: “I’ve used Instabridge as a European… prices are just straight up cheaper,” a review for Instabridge eSIM reads on Reddit.
6. Airalo (Powered by China Mobile)
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, 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 AIRALO’S CHINA eSIM: Simply install and activate your eSIM on the Airalo app.
- BEST REVIEW: “No more finding local SIM cards and changing numbers that I then have to communicate to family and friends that might need to reach me while I’m abroad. I honestly have high expectations for services like this and AIRALO has met each one with flying colors!”
7. 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.
8. 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 one 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 by Nomad
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 — use our Nomad eSIM promo code TRAVLISTS to get 5% off!
- 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…”
Klook Promo Code for China
Get up to 8% off China eSIMs, transportation cards, tours, and more when you use our promo code TRAVLISTS here!