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VPN or not?

Hi, am travelling to China in June, am wondering what VPN most foreigners use if any.

There are so many conflicting info, just need some suggestions

TY

Traveling to China comes with the consideration that many popular internet services such as Google, WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and some news websites are blocked by the Great Firewall. Many travelers use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to access these services, but the situation can be unpredictable and regulations may change.

Here are some points to consider about using VPNs in China:

  • Not all VPNs work reliably in China. Some may be blocked intermittently or completely, especially free VPNs or those with limited servers.
  • Paid VPN services with a good reputation for working in China tend to have a higher success rate. Travelers often recommend subscribing and installing the VPN before arriving in China, as VPN websites are blocked once you are inside the country.
  • Even with a working VPN, connection speed may be slower than usual due to encryption and network restrictions. Video streaming and large downloads may be affected.
  • Always test your VPN before travel, ensure it supports multiple devices (phone, tablet, laptop), and have a backup option in case your primary VPN does not work.

Commonly used VPNs by foreigners traveling to China include:

  • ExpressVPN – Known for reliable access and fast speeds.
  • NordVPN – Offers multiple servers that often bypass restrictions in China.
  • Surfshark – Affordable option with decent performance in China.
  • VyprVPN – Has its proprietary Chameleon protocol designed to defeat censorship.

Alternatives to VPNs:

  • Use Chinese apps that provide similar services to the ones blocked, e.g., WeChat for messaging, Baidu Maps for navigation, and Youdao or Pleco for translation.
  • Some travelers use international SIM cards with roaming plans, but these do not bypass the Great Firewall, so VPN is still needed for blocked websites.

In summary, a VPN can be very useful for accessing familiar apps and websites while in China, but it is important to choose a reputable paid VPN, install it before arrival, and have a backup plan with local alternatives.

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