Some services are not directly accessible
Several foreign websites and apps are not directly accessible from mainland China. This affects some social media, search, email and messaging services. Plan around it: download offline maps, save documents, and tell family which apps you can use.
Follow local law
Using unauthorised tools to bypass internet restrictions can be illegal in China. This guide does not provide circumvention instructions. Use lawful services, local apps and your home roaming plan where appropriate; ask your hotel or employer for legitimate connectivity options.
Wi-Fi and security
Hotel and café Wi-Fi is common but can be slow or require a Chinese phone number for verification. Avoid sensitive banking on public Wi-Fi; use mobile data or a trusted network. Keep your devices updated and use two-factor authentication.
Reality check
The practical issue is access, not speed: plan which apps you need before you fly.
Local tip: Download offline maps and tell family which apps you will use.
Step by step
- Check which apps you need before departure.
- Download offline maps and translations.
- Arrange a data plan that works in China.
- Save important documents offline.
- Tell family which apps you will use.
- Use trusted networks for banking.
Typical costs
| Item | Cost / note |
|---|---|
| Data plan | US$10–40 |
| Roaming | Check your carrier; can be high |
| VPN/unauthorised tools | Not recommended; legal risk |
Prices are indicative and change. Confirm with the official provider before paying.
Documents to prepare
- Passport for SIM registration
- Offline maps
- Emergency contacts
Common mistakes
- Assuming your usual apps work
- Leaving banking to public Wi-Fi
- Using illegal circumvention tools
- Not telling family about app access
If things go wrong
- If an app fails, switch to a local alternative or hotel Wi-Fi.
- If you are unsure about a tool, do not use it; ask your employer or hotel for legitimate options.
FAQ
Can I access my email?
Some email services work; others may be slow or inaccessible. Check before departure and set up an alternative.
Is hotel Wi-Fi reliable?
Usually fine for browsing, but speeds vary. Use mobile data for payments and banking.
Staying connected: the field guide
Connectivity is the difference between a smooth trip and a day of guessing addresses. Set up data and the core apps before you need them.
Choose the right connection
A local SIM gives you a Chinese number, which helps with taxis, deliveries and some registrations. A travel eSIM is convenient but often data-only. Roaming keeps your home number but can be expensive. For trips over a week, a local SIM plus a data eSIM backup is a good combination.
The app stack
Install a payment app, a ride-hailing app, a translation app with offline Chinese, a map with offline data and a rail app. Many services also live inside Alipay/WeChat mini-programs. Register and verify before you fly, because SMS verification is easier at home.
Internet rules and security
Some foreign websites and apps are not directly accessible from mainland China. Using unauthorised tools to bypass restrictions can be illegal; this guide does not provide circumvention advice. Use lawful services and trusted networks. Avoid banking on public Wi-Fi and keep two-factor authentication on.
Quick checks
- Local SIM or eSIM tested
- Payment, map, translation and transport apps installed
- Offline maps and addresses saved
- Family told which apps you can use
- Two-factor authentication enabled
Printable checklist
Print this page or save it as a PDF. Tick each item before you go.
- Passport for SIM registration
- Offline maps
- Emergency contacts
- Check which apps you need before departure.
- Download offline maps and translations.
- Arrange a data plan that works in China.
- Save important documents offline.
- Tell family which apps you will use.
- Use trusted networks for banking.
This guide is a practical summary, not an official or legal document. Rules and prices change. Use the official links below, and confirm with the relevant authority or a qualified professional.
Last verified 2026-10-29. China Handbook is independent and not affiliated with any government. Information is provided for general guidance only.