Internet & VPN
Articles in this section focus on esim within the broader internet & vpn topic.
Learn when to install and activate a China travel eSIM, when the plan may start counting, and what settings to turn on after landing.
Learn what to fix first when internet, Alipay and Didi all fail after landing in China—and when to stop troubleshooting and use another way to reach your hotel.
Learn when a data-only eSIM is enough for a first China trip, which tasks still need your home number, and when a local +86 number is genuinely useful.
Use a travel eSIM for data in China while keeping your home SIM active for verification texts, with device checks, dual-SIM settings, cost controls, and OTP troubleshooting.
You can visit China without Alipay, but roaming data only keeps your phone online. Prepare both mobile-payment apps, cash, cards and a first-night backup.
