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📶Staying connected
Sort out data and a VPN before you land. Many global apps are blocked in China, so a little prep keeps you online with maps, chat and search.
- Data
- eSIM or local SIM
- VPN
- Install before arrival
- Must-have app
- Maps
- Amap / Apple Maps
Getting online
- Travel eSIM (e.g. Airalo and similar): easiest — buy and activate before you fly; many route around the Great Firewall.
- Local SIM: buy from China Mobile/Unicom/Telecom with your passport on arrival.
- International roaming from your home carrier often bypasses the firewall too (check rates).
VPN — set it up at home
Google, Gmail, Instagram, WhatsApp, X and many news sites are blocked. Install and test a reputable VPN before you arrive — you usually can't download one once you're in China. A travel eSIM that tunnels traffic can be a simpler alternative.
The apps you'll actually need
- WeChat — messaging + payments + mini-programs; near-essential.
- Alipay — payments, transit, translation and mini-programs.
- Amap (Gaode) or Apple Maps — reliable local navigation (Google Maps is unreliable here).
- DiDi — ride-hailing. Pleco — offline Chinese dictionary. Dianping — restaurant reviews.
Planning the trip itself?