Staying connected in China can be tricky — not only because of internet restrictions, but also due to the high costs of international roaming. If you’re an AT&T user, understanding how AT&T China Roaming works is essential before you land. In this guide, we’ll break down the available plans, real costs, device compatibility, and the best alternatives like eSIMs and local SIM cards. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, this article will help you choose the smartest and most affordable way to stay online in China.
I. Can You Use AT&T in China?
Yes, AT&T works in China. Your phone connects to local networks like China Mobile or China Unicom. AT&T sends you the bill, so you don’t need a new SIM card. This works for most postpaid plans, like Unlimited Starter or Elite, but not always for prepaid plans. You need to turn on the International Day Pass to use AT&T Roaming in China. There are some problems:
- Your phone may have slow internet speeds.
- China blocks apps like Google, WhatsApp, and Facebook. Before you go, do these steps:
- Check if your plan allows roaming.
- Turn on roaming in your AT&T account.
- Download a VPN to use blocked apps.
II. Preparing for AT&T Roaming in China
Check if your phone works with China’s networks. China uses GSM and LTE networks. Most phones made after 2016 work fine. Make sure your phone supports LTE bands 1, 3, or 41. Ask AT&T or your phone’s maker to confirm. Your phone must also be unlocked for international use. Before you travel:
- Check if your plan supports roaming.
- Turn on international roaming in your AT&T account.
- Download a VPN to access blocked apps.
- Download maps, translators, or WeChat to use offline in China.
III. AT&T Roaming Costs in China (2025)
AT&T Roaming in China can be expensive. You have two options: the International Day Pass or pay pay-per-use rates. The Day Pass is better for most people, but pay-per-use can lead to very high bills.
Here’s a table of costs:
| Service | International Day Pass (Postpaid) | Pay-Per-Use (No Day Pass) |
| Daily Fee | $12/day | None |
| Calls | Unlimited | $3/minute |
| Sending Texts | Unlimited | $0.50/text |
| Receiving Texts | Free | Free |
| Data | Use your home data plan | $2.05/MB (e.g., $72 for 1 min YouTube) |
The International Day Pass costs $12 per day. It gives you unlimited calls, texts, and your home data plan. It starts automatically when you use your phone in China. It works in over 210 countries and is good for short trips. Pay-per-use is very costly: $3 per minute for calls, $0.50 per text, and $2.05 per MB of data. For example, 15 minutes of Spotify costs about $154. Use pay-per-use only for emergencies.
IV. How to Set Up AT&T Roaming
To use AT&T Roaming in China, set up roaming before you leave:
- Open the AT&T app, visit their website, or call AT&T to turn on international roaming.
- Choose the International Day Pass ($12/day) or expect pay-per-use rates.
- Add spend limits or alerts in your AT&T account to control costs.
- Turn on data roaming in your phone’s settings to connect in China. The International Day Pass starts automatically when you call, text, or use data. To avoid this, keep your phone in airplane mode until you’re ready to use it.
V. Challenges of Staying Connected in China
AT&T Roaming in China has some problems. Your internet may be slow, depending on the local network. This can make browsing or watching videos hard. Pay-per-use rates are very expensive, and the International Day Pass may not give enough data if your home plan is small. Also, China’s internet rules block apps like Google, Gmail, WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram. This affects AT&T Roaming in China. To use these apps, download a VPN before you arrive. You can’t get most VPNs in China’s app stores. A VPN is important for work or staying in touch.
VI. Better Alternatives to AT&T Roaming in China
You can save money by using these options instead of AT&T Roaming in China:
- Public WiFi: Free at hotels, airports, cafes, and malls. It’s not safe, so use a VPN. Some WiFi needs a phone number to log in.
- Local SIM Card: Buy one from China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom at airports or stores. You need your passport. Data plans are cheap, like 10–20GB for $10–15.
- eSIM: Get an eSIM from providers like Airalo, Holafly, or China eSIM. It gives you affordable data. Set it up with a QR code before you go. Check if your phone works with eSIMs. Visit https://chinaesim.com/esim/china-unlimited-data/ for unlimited data plans.
- Pocket WiFi Rental: Rent a portable WiFi hotspot for $5–10 per day. It connects multiple devices and is great for families or groups.
VII. Tips to Save Money and Stay Online
There are some steps to keep costs low and stay connected:
- Use WiFi whenever you can to save data.
- Turn off auto-updates and background data on your phone.
- Download maps, videos, or apps before you travel.
- Use WeChat to message or pay in China, as it’s very popular.
- Check your phone usage in the AT&T app to avoid big bills.