The best eSIMs for China and Wendy Wu destinations
When touching down in China, don't you want your phone working the moment you land? For airport transfers, hotel check-ins, maps, and keeping in touch a travel eSIM is the simplest way to do that. No searching for a SIM shop, no swapping tiny trays, and no surprise roaming charges.
Below are two reliable eSIM providers we recommend for China, with options that also suit travellers who visit multiple destinations across Asia and beyond.
Quick checklist before you buy
- Your phone must support eSIM (most newer iPhones and many recent Androids do).
- Your phone must be carrier-unlocked (otherwise the eSIM won’t activate).
- Install before you fly, while you still have stable Wi-Fi and time to troubleshoot.
- Most travel eSIMs are data-only (you’ll still use WhatsApp/WeChat/FaceTime audio, but you may not receive standard Texts(SMS)/calls on the eSIM).
1) Airalo: Best flexible all-rounder
Why it’s a strong all-round choice
Airalo is a widely used travel eSIM provider with an easy app experience and a wide range of plans. It’s particularly good if your travel doesn’t stop at one border: You can choose country-specific, regional, or global options depending on where you’re going next.
What’s more, you can get 10% off your Airalo e-sim purchase with the code WWT on all purchases before 31st December 2026. Enter the code at checkout to redeem.
Best for
- China tours with stopovers or extensions
- Travellers who want a straightforward app and easy top-ups
- Anyone who wants the flexibility to switch between local/regional/global plans
What to look for when choosing a plan
- China only if you’re staying in one country
- Asia / regional if you’re combining China with nearby destinations
- Global if your itinerary includes regions outside Asia (for example, Middle East, Africa, or South America)
2) Nomad: Best for China & Asia
Why it’s a good choice
Nomad is another trusted provider with broad destination coverage and easy-to-understand plan options. It’s well suited to travellers doing a multi-country itinerary, especially across Asia, where a regional plan can be more convenient than buying separate eSIMs.
Best for
- China and multiple Asian destinations
- Travellers who prefer simple plan selection and an easy setup process
- Anyone who wants to manage everything in one place and top up easily
A note about internet access in China
Internet access in China can be different to what you’re used to. Some apps and websites may be restricted or unreliable at times. Many travellers find that some roaming-style eSIM routes can feel more “open” than a local SIM, but it can vary by network, region, and timing so it’s best to treat anything as not guaranteed.
Practical tips
- Make sure you have WeChat ready before you depart (it’s essential in China).
- Download offline maps, translation packs, and your tour documents in advance.
- Keep expectations realistic: even with good data, the internet can be inconsistent in some areas.
How to install your eSIM
You’ll usually be offered two installation methods:
- In-app installation (fastest and easiest)
- QR code installation (great if you prefer manual control)
The best time to install
Install before your flight on reliable Wi-Fi. You can still keep the eSIM turned off until you arrive.
Option A: Install via the provider app (recommended)
- Purchase the plan in the app (Airalo or Nomad).
- Tap Install eSIM (follow the prompts).
- When asked to label it, name it something clear like “China eSIM”.
- Enable it on either at the time you install it or when you arrive in China.
Option B: Install via QR code
You’ll receive a QR code after purchase.
iPhone (iOS)
- Go to Settings → Mobile/Cellular → Add eSIM
- Choose Use QR Code and scan it
- Label it (e.g. China eSIM)
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Set your preferences:
- Default Voice Line: your normal SIM (if you want to keep calls/texts on your home number)
- Mobile Data: China eSIM (once you arrive)
- Turn on Data Roaming for the eSIM only if the provider instructions say to (many travel eSIMs require this).
Android (steps vary slightly by brand)
- Go to Settings → Network & Internet / Connections → SIM Manager
- Select Add eSIM → Scan QR code
- Choose the eSIM for Mobile data once you arrive
- Enable Roaming if required by the provider instructions.
Arrival setup (30 seconds at the airport)
When you land:
- Turn Airplane Mode ON, wait a few seconds, then turn it OFF
- Go to Mobile/Cellular settings and switch Mobile Data to your eSIM
- If you’re keeping your home SIM active for calls/texts, turn Data Roaming OFF on your home SIM to avoid accidental roaming charges
- Confirm you’ve got signal and data by opening maps or your browser
Final travel tips
- Choose Airalo if you want maximum flexibility.
- Choose Nomad if you want simple plan selection, and easy regional options.
- Buy and install your eSIM before you depart, and keep a screenshot of your QR code (if provided) saved offline, just in case you need to reinstall.