Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving millions of passengers each year. Whether you’re visiting China for business or leisure, staying connected with a local SIM card is essential for navigating the country, translating languages, and accessing essential apps.
This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to purchase a SIM card at Beijing Airport, including the different options available, costs, and the documents you’ll need to have.
There are several locations where you can purchase a SIM card at Beijing Airport:
For more detailed information on facilities and services available at Beijing Capital International Airport, check out their official website by clicking here: Check airport website
The major telecom providers in China offer a range of SIM card options at Beijing Airport. The most popular options include:
| Network | Plan | Cost (RMB) | Cost (USD) | Data | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| China Mobile | Daily Data Plan | 18 RMB/month | ~$2.60/month | 1 RMB/1GB daily | Cheapest option for light data use. Prices may vary. |
| China Mobile | 30 Day Unlimited Plan | 128 RMB/month | ~$18.40/month | 30GB full speed data | Good value for moderate use |
| China Mobile | 60 Day Unlimited Plan | 238 RMB/month | ~$34.20/month | 40GB full speed data | More data than 30 day plan |
| China Unicom | 1 Month Data-Only SIM | 30 RMB | ~$4.30 | 4GB | Data-only SIM, no calling minutes |
| China Unicom | 7 Day Tourist SIM | 58 RMB | ~$8.35 | 2GB | Valid for 7 days, no Chinese registration required |
| China Unicom Hong Kong | 1 Month SIM | 128 HKD (~160 RMB) | ~$22.90 | 8GB | Bypasses censorship, accepts foreign cards |
Plans on the major domestic networks China Mobile and China Unicom offer decent value for money, with packages ranging from daily rental options up to 1 month unlimited plans. For light users, the daily data plan on China Mobile is the most affordable choice. Travelers looking for moderate usage around 30GB can consider China Mobile’s 30 day unlimited package.
Find out which carrier has the best coverage in Beijing and where to buy a SIM card easily in our comprehensive guide:
To purchase a SIM card at Beijing Airport, you will need to provide some documents:
Chinese Citizens:
Additional Tips:
When arriving at Beijing Capital International Airport, securing a local SIM card can be a hassle. The airport SIM kiosks often have long lines and limited data plan options. If you need connectivity right away, an eSIM is a great alternative to consider.
eSIMs from services like Chinaesim.com allow you to set up a Chinese data plan directly from your device without having to wait in airport lines or look for a SIM kit. Plans through Chinaesim.com range from 3GB for 5 days for only $7 to 30GB for 30 days for $36.90. We have options suitable for short term and long term visitors.
China eSIM 3GB total - 5 days
China eSIM 3GB total - 5 days
3GB
China eSIM 10GB total - 5 days
China eSIM 10GB total - 5 days
10GB
China eSIM 5GB total - 7 days
China eSIM 5GB total - 7 days
5GB
China eSIM 1GB/day - 7 days
China eSIM 1GB/day - 7 days
1GB/day
China eSIM 10GB total - 10 days
China eSIM 10GB total - 10 days
10GB
China eSIM 3GB/days - 15 days
China eSIM 3GB/days - 15 days
3GB/day
China eSIM 20GB total - 30 days
China eSIM 20GB total - 30 days
20GB
Greater China eSIM 10GB total - 10 days
Greater China eSIM 10GB total - 10 days
10GB
Greater China eSIM 4GB/day - 15 days
Greater China eSIM 4GB/day - 15 days
4GB/day
China Vietnam eSIM 8GB total - 7 days
China Vietnam eSIM 8GB total - 7 days
8GB
The best part is you can purchase and activate your eSIM before even leaving for your trip. Just buy the plan online from Chinaesim.com, and you will receive the activation QR code by email immediately. Then once you land and connect to WiFi at the airport, simply scan the QR code with your phone to instantly start using the data network. No need to rent a WiFi device or wander around looking for a SIM provider.
Mobile freedom abroad. Get an eSIM from Chinaesim.com
The main providers at the airport stores are China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom.
The stores at the airport, especially in Terminal 3, usually have English speaking staff who can assist foreigners. You may still need to bring a translated list of the plans if you want to choose a specific one.
To buy a SIM card, you need your passport. The seller will make a photocopy of your passport information page for registration purposes.
Yes, the stores can activate the SIM for you on the spot. Make sure to ask them to activate it before you leave the store.
They accept cash (RMB only) as well as credit/debit cards including Visa and Mastercard. The initial top up has to be in cash to activate the SIM.
Chinaesim.com is highly recommended for purchasing eSIM data plans for travel within China. They offer a wide range of competitively priced plans that work on all three major Chinese networks, providing reliable coverage nationwide.
China Mobile and China Unicom sell 30-day plans with 1-10GB data that would suffice for short trips.
Yes, the airport stores may charge a 10-20 RMB premium over city stores. But the convenience makes up for it. Check prices off-airport if you have time.
Purchasing a SIM card at Beijing Airport is a convenient and affordable way to stay connected during your trip to China. With multiple options from major telecom providers and the option of eSIM, you can easily find a plan that suits your needs. Just remember to have your documents ready and compare prices before making a purchase. Enjoy your stay in China!
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