Choose your mainland China data plan
Prepaid mobile data. Install from email, with no app or account.
What your Mainland China eSIM includes
Keep directions, translations and reservations close at hand.
Local network access
Connect to China Mobile for mobile data across mainland China.
Set up before you travel
Install at home, connect in mainland China. Your plan starts on its first local connection, with 180 days from purchase to get started.
Install straight from your email
Open the installation link or scan the QR code in your email. No app, no account.
Check your balance and add data
See your remaining data and top up from your personal dashboard. Open it straight from your email.
Share your data by hotspot
Get your laptop, tablet or travel companion online with your phone’s hotspot.
Keep your usual number
Keep your regular SIM and messaging apps. Your travel eSIM takes care of the data.
How it works
Choose your plan
Choose the data allowance and number of days for your trip.
Install from your email
Install using the link or QR code in your email while you have an internet connection.
Connect when you land
Select the eSIM for mobile data and enable its data roaming on arrival in mainland China.
Coverage and performance
Mobile data across mainland China.
- China Mobile
| Your trip | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Beijing, Shanghai and city stays | China Mobile provides broad coverage for navigating cities, translating menus and keeping bookings close at hand. |
| Smaller towns and longer journeys | China Mobile’s reach extends beyond the cities. Tunnels and remote mountain stretches can interrupt local signal on any SIM; save train tickets and routes before travelling. |
| Hong Kong or Macau next? | This plan covers mainland China only. Arrange separate coverage for Hong Kong or Macau before crossing the boundary. |
Network details and sources
- China Mobile Sustainability Report 2024: the operator reports extensive town and village coverage. This is the carrier’s own infrastructure report.
Before you buy your Mainland China eSIM
Plan details, setup and using your phone during the trip.
Ask us about your tripThis is a data-only eSIM, without a mainland Chinese number or standard calls and SMS. Keep your usual SIM if you need to receive messages on your existing number.
Yes. Install at home over Wi-Fi. Your plan’s days start counting when the eSIM first connects in mainland China. You have 180 days from purchase to make that first connection.
You’ll have access to China Mobile, with 5G on compatible phones. Your connection speed depends on local coverage and network traffic.
This plan covers mainland China. For Hong Kong or Macau, choose a plan that lists those destinations, such as our Asia regional eSIM.
Allow for maps, translations, bookings and messaging. Choose enough days for your trip and add more data for video or hotspot use.
Yes. Open your dashboard from the link in your email and choose a top-up. You’ll see the data, price and validity before buying. It goes on the same eSIM, so keep it installed.
Yes. Keep your regular SIM and use the travel eSIM for mobile data. Your messaging apps keep their existing accounts. Turn off data roaming and automatic data switching for your regular SIM; calls and texts on it use your usual carrier’s rates.
Install over Wi-Fi using the link or QR code in your email. On arrival, select the eSIM for mobile data and turn on its data roaming. Our installation guide walks you through it.