Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport is one of the busiest airports in China, serving as a major hub for domestic and international travelers. For those arriving in Guangzhou, having a reliable internet connection is essential, whether for communication, navigation, or accessing online services. Purchasing a local SIM card at the airport is a convenient solution for staying connected during your stay in China.
Guangzhou Baiyun Airport has several mobile operator stores located within the terminal buildings, making it easy to purchase a SIM card upon arrival. The following are the major mobile operators with stores at the airport:
China Mobile is one of the largest mobile operators in China and has multiple stores at Guangzhou Baiyun Airport. You can find their stores in the arrivals hall of both the Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 buildings.
China Unicom is another major mobile operator in China, and they have stores located in the arrivals hall of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at Guangzhou Baiyun Airport.
China Telecom is the third major mobile operator in China, and they also have a store in the arrivals hall of Terminal 1 at Guangzhou Baiyun Airport.
In addition to the mobile operator stores, you can also purchase a SIM card from convenience stores located within the airport terminals. These stores typically offer SIM cards from various mobile operators, providing you with more options to choose from.
Some of the convenience store chains where you can buy SIM cards at Guangzhou Baiyun Airport include:
These convenience stores are typically open 24 hours a day, making it convenient to purchase a SIM card regardless of your arrival time.
If you prefer a more personalized service or have specific requirements, you can visit the mobile service counters located within the airport terminals. These counters are staffed by representatives from the mobile operators who can assist you in selecting the right SIM card plan and guide you through the activation process.
For more detailed information on facilities and services available at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, check out their official website by clicking here: Check airport website
The mobile operators at Guangzhou Baiyun Airport offer a variety of SIM card options to cater to different needs and budgets. Here are some common options and their approximate costs:
| 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 |
It’s important to note that prices and packages may vary, and it’s recommended to check with the mobile operator stores or counters at the airport for the latest offerings and promotions.
To purchase a SIM card at Guangzhou Baiyun Airport, you’ll need to have a few things ready:
Make sure to have your passport number handy for registration. Some SIM card providers may also ask for your 16-digit Chinese ID number if you have one.
Most SIM card kiosks and stores at the airport accept cash payment in Chinese yuan. It’s best to have around 150 yuan on hand to pay for the SIM card, activation fee and initial top-up amount. You may also be able to pay by credit card, especially at China Unicom counters.
Make sure your mobile device is unlocked and compatible with the mobile networks in China. Most modern smartphones are compatible, but it’s always best to check with your mobile operator or the store staff at the airport to ensure compatibility.
Airport SIM cards often require address registration. Prepare your hotel address card or booking receipt as proof if needed.
Be prepared to provide your visa type (e.g. tourist or business visa), expected length of stay and general travel plans within China. This information is needed for registration purposes.
When traveling to Guangzhou, obtaining a local SIM card can be important to stay connected. Typically, visitors would need to find one of the China Mobile, China Telecom, or China Unicom stores located inside or near the airport to purchase a physical SIM card.
However, we recommend considering an eSIM from Chinaesim.com as an alternative. Chinaesim.com is a top eSIM provider that offers convenient digital SIM plans for travelers. Our eSIM plans can be instantly activated after purchase, without the need to swap physical SIM cards.
Some benefits of buying an eSIM from Chinaesim.com include:
Our plans are very affordable starting from just $7 and provide coverage all across China as well as neighboring countries like Hong Kong, Vietnam, etc.
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
While eSIMs offer convenience, it’s important to ensure that your device supports eSIM functionality and that you have a stable internet connection to complete the setup process.
Mobile freedom abroad. Get an eSIM from Chinaesim.com
There are kiosks located in the arrival halls of both the domestic and international terminals that sell SIM cards from all three major Chinese carriers: China Mobile, China Unicom and China Telecom.
You’ll need to show your passport for verification. Some kiosks may also require you to provide your address in China. Having your hotel address written down is recommended.
China Unicom is generally recommended for international travelers as it offers the best coverage nationwide on its 3G/4G networks. China Mobile’s network coverage is expansive but its 3G technology is not compatible with most foreign phones.
The airport kiosks can activate SIM cards within 5-10 minutes. You’ll need an internet connection to complete the registration process before you can use data. Hotel WiFi works well for activation.
Yes, buying a China eSIM from Chinaesim.com allows instant setup without changing any physical SIM cards. Plans are competitively priced and you can be up and running within minutes of landing via email delivery. This is highly recommended for hassle-free connectivity.
Staying connected during your travels in China is essential, and purchasing a SIM card at Guangzhou Baiyun Airport is a convenient and affordable solution. With multiple options available, including mobile operator stores, convenience stores, and the possibility of using an eSIM, you can easily find a plan that suits your needs and budget.
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