How do I choose a China SIM plan

Required Documents

  • Passport (Required)

Used for identity verification and real-name registration, the most basic document requirement.

Provide a valid passport, and some areas may require checking the visa page or entry stamp.

  • Visa or Entry Record

Proves your legal entry status.

Some counters may scan or verify the entry stamp on your passport.

  • Document Photo (Taken at the Counter)

When processing a SIM card, staff may require taking your document photo on-site for archiving.

Usually done at the counter, no extra preparation needed.

  • Contact Information (Optional)

The counter may ask for a local contact or backup phone number, but it's usually optional.

If you don't have a local contact, you can explain that you are a tourist.

Determine Usage Needs

  • Data Usage

Need high data? For example, using maps, social media, video calls.Only need low data? For occasional information lookup or email.

  • International Calls

Do you need to make international calls to your country? How often?

  • Domestic Calls and SMS

Do you need to call local Chinese numbers (e.g., hotels, taxis)?

Choose Package Type

Here are common package categories and applicable scenarios:

  • Data-Only Package

Applicable Scenario: Suitable for users who mainly rely on social apps (e.g., WeChat, WhatsApp)Suggestion: Choose this package if you don't need to make calls

  • Data + Domestic Calls Package

Applicable Scenario: Suitable for users who need to contact hotels, travel agencies, taxis, etc.Suggestion: Recommended for general tourists

  • International Calls Package

Applicable Scenario: Suitable for users who frequently call back to their countrySuggestion: Choose this package if you need international long-distance calls

  • Daily Rental Package

Applicable Scenario: Suitable for short stays (1-3 days)Suggestion: Choose this package if your trip is short.

Package Comparison (Example of Three Major Carriers)

China Mobile

Data Package:

  • ¥50 / 3GB, valid for 7 days
  • ¥100 / 10GB, valid for 30 days

Data + Calls Package:

  • ¥80 / 5GB + 100 minutes domestic calls, valid for 15 days
  • ¥150 / 15GB + 300 minutes domestic calls, valid for 30 days

International Calls:

  • Charged per minute, requires activation of international services (suitable for low frequency needs).

China Unicom

Data Package:

  • ¥30 / 2GB, valid for 3 days
  • ¥100 / 12GB, valid for 30 days

Data + Calls Package:

  • ¥70 / 5GB + 50 minutes domestic calls, valid for 7 days
  • ¥120 / 10GB + 200 minutes domestic calls, valid for 30 days

International Calls:

  • Supports adding international call packages (additional fees).

China Telecom

Data Package:

  • ¥60 / 5GB, valid for 10 days
  • ¥120 / 20GB, valid for 30 days

Data + Calls Package:

  • ¥90 / 6GB + 100 minutes domestic calls, valid for 15 days
  • ¥180 / 20GB + 300 minutes domestic calls, valid for 30 days

International Calls:

  • Provides international dialing packages, flexible options.

Package Selection Example

Suppose you are traveling to China for 15 days, with the following usage scenarios:

Data Usage:

  • About 2GB per day, need to use maps, social apps, video calls.

Domestic Calls:

  • Occasionally call taxis or hotels, about 10 minutes per day.

International Calls:

  • Call 1-2 times per week, about 5 minutes each time.

Recommended Packages:

  • China Unicom: ¥120 (10GB data + 200 minutes domestic calls, valid for 30 days) + International call package (purchased as needed).
  • China Mobile: ¥150 (15GB data + 300 minutes domestic calls, valid for 30 days) + Activate international call function.

Payment and Activation

  • Payment Methods
  • Most places support the following methods:
  1. Cash: RMB (recommended to exchange in advance).
  2. Bank Cards: Visa, Mastercard, or UnionPay.
  3. Mobile Payment: Some counters may support WeChat Pay or Alipay (requires linking to an international credit card).
  • After successful payment, staff will assist in activating the SIM card.
  • SIM Card Testing
  1. Insert the SIM card into your phone and check if you can access the internet and make calls.
  2. If you need to activate international dialing or roaming services, be sure to test the functionality on-site.

Additional Tips

  • Use Free WiFi: Airports, hotels, cafes, subways, etc., generally offer free WiFi, which can save data.
  • Consider Portable WiFi Devices: Suitable for group travel, sharing the network is more cost-effective.
  • VPN Needs: If you need to access international social media and Google services, prepare a reliable VPN service in advance.
  • Online Reservation: Some airport counters support online booking of packages or SIM cards to speed up the process.
  • Dual SIM Phones: If your phone supports dual SIM, you can keep your original SIM card and insert the Chinese SIM card into the spare slot.
  • Package Coverage: Be sure to verify whether the selected package includes international dialing and access to popular social apps (e.g., WhatsApp, Facebook).

Hope this information helps you choose the most suitable package.