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E-sim and VPN

1. Anyone has used a non-Chinese e-sim card successfully in mainland China? I am thinking of Airalo. Was the coverage good?

2. If I buy a Chinese local sim card on arrival, can I still use VPN and access Google etc?

Or do I need a non-Chinese sim for the VPN?

I have not used VPN before so no experience or knowledge on this topic.

TIA.

1. Using a non-Chinese eSIM in mainland China, such as Airalo, is possible, but there are a few considerations. Coverage and speed may vary depending on the provider and the network agreements they have with local carriers. In major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, coverage is generally good and reliable for basic data usage. However, in remote or rural areas, the signal may be weaker or slower, and eSIMs may not always support local 4G/5G networks as efficiently as a local SIM card.

2. Regarding VPN usage on a Chinese local SIM:

  • Chinese SIM cards provide standard mobile data and work well for accessing local websites and apps. However, mainland China has strict internet regulations, and websites such as Google, Gmail, Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp are blocked.
  • To access these blocked services, you will need a VPN (Virtual Private Network) installed on your device. A Chinese local SIM does not prevent VPN usage, but VPN apps and servers may be restricted, so it is highly recommended to install and configure your VPN before arriving in China.
  • Using a non-Chinese SIM (e.g., international eSIM or roaming SIM) can sometimes make VPN usage simpler, as some VPN apps might have better connectivity on non-Chinese networks. However, it is not strictly necessary; a Chinese SIM will work with a properly set up VPN.

Additional tips for first-time VPN users:

  • Research and subscribe to a reliable VPN provider before entering China. Free VPNs are often blocked or unreliable.
  • Download and configure the VPN on all your devices (phone, tablet, laptop) prior to arrival.
  • Test the VPN connection in your home country to ensure it works properly, then use it in China to bypass restrictions.
  • Keep a backup VPN or alternative server list, in case one server is blocked during your stay.

In summary, you can use either a non-Chinese eSIM or a local Chinese SIM in mainland China. VPNs are necessary to access Google, social media, and other restricted sites, and proper setup before arrival is key to ensuring smooth internet access.

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