SIM Cards for Tourists

Tourist SIM cards are available at airports, convenience stores, and official telecom operator outlets. China has three main telecom providers—China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom—all of which offer prepaid SIM cards with different packages for calls, text messages, and data.

• Purchasing: You will need your passport to purchase a SIM card. Plans vary, with options for data-only or voice and data combined.
• Data Packages: Typical tourist SIM cards come with a fixed data allowance, ranging from 1GB to unlimited data, depending on the package.

Portable Wi-Fi Devices

Portable Wi-Fi routers are another option, allowing you to connect multiple devices at once. These devices can be rented at Shanghai’s major airports or online in advance, with pick-up locations at airports or hotel delivery options.

• Benefits: Ideal for groups or those needing connectivity on multiple devices. Packages usually include unlimited data for a set daily rate.

International Roaming

If you prefer to use your own SIM card, check with your home provider for international roaming plans in China. Many providers offer competitive daily or weekly roaming packages, but be sure to confirm rates, as international roaming can be more expensive.