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Visiting China? Essential Tips for Payments, eSIMs, VPNs & Internet Access

 

 

(This post may contain affiliate links. See our disclosure about affiliate links here.)

 

 

If you're planning a trip to China, be prepared for a digital landscape that operates differently from what you might be used to. Payments, internet access, and even basic app functionality require some preparation. Based on my recent experience, here’s what you need to know.

 

Payments: Mobile Wallets Are Essential

Forget about using your international credit card for most transactions. China’s economy is built around mobile payments.

 

Download Alipay before you arrive and link your credit card to it. This will allow you to pay at most stores, restaurants, and even taxis.

 

Transactions above RMB 200 ($28 USD) will incur a 3% surcharge when using an international card.

 

I never needed to withdraw cash, but I also stayed within major cities. If you're heading to rural areas, carrying some cash might be wise.

 

eSIMs: The Best Way to Stay Connected

 

China’s internet is heavily restricted. Most international apps—Gmail, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, and Snapchat—are blocked.

 

To stay connected:

 

Buy a travel eSIM before you arrive. A travel eSIM connects you to international networks, bypassing China’s restrictions.

 

I used MobiMatter. It was easy to install and automatically activated upon arrival. With a travel eSIM, I never needed a VPN to access blocked apps.

For a 10-day stay, expect to use 10-20GB of data. Prices range from $8 to $14 for 30-day validity.

VPNs: Unreliable but Sometimes Necessary

If you plan to use public WiFi (hotels, airports, cafes), you’ll need a VPN to access blocked websites.

Not all VPNs work in China. I tried several, and only LetsVPN worked—but even then, speeds were slow and unreliable.

 

VPNs that failed: NordVPN, Windscribe, ProtonVPN, Privado, Hotspot Shield.

You don’t need a VPN if you’re using a travel eSIM. The eSIM connects to an international network, bypassing restrictions.

TikTok: Blocked, Even with a VPN or eSIM

The international version of TikTok (Douyin) is blocked in China. Neither a travel eSIM nor a VPN will let you access TikTok from inside the country. Some guides suggest removing your SIM card to access TikTok, but I didn’t test this.

 

Final Thoughts

 

China's digital ecosystem is unique. Mobile payments, eSIMs, and VPNs require advance planning. For the best experience:

 

- Set up Alipay with your international card before arrival.
- Buy a travel eSIM like MobiMatter before your trip.
- Install multiple VPNs as a backup if you plan to use public WiFi.
- Know that TikTok won’t work, regardless of your setup.

 

With the right preparation, you can avoid tech-related frustration and focus on enjoying your trip. Safe travels!