Traveling to China can be an exciting and enriching experience, but one aspect that often catches travelers off guard is the issue of data roaming charges. With the ever-increasing reliance on mobile devices for navigation, communication, and entertainment, it’s crucial to understand the intricacies of data roaming in China to avoid unexpected and exorbitant bills. This comprehensive guide aims to equip you with the knowledge and strategies necessary to navigate the world of data roaming in China seamlessly.

roaming in china

I. Understanding Data Roaming in China

Mobile roaming charges refer to the fees imposed by cellular service providers when their subscribers use their phones outside of their home networks and in other countries. China has some of the highest roaming charges in the world, so it’s important for travelers to understand how roaming works in China to avoid unexpected bills.

When you use your phone abroad in China while roaming, you are connecting to another mobile operator’s cellular network instead of your domestic network at home. This means your calls, text messages and data use will be subject to roaming fees on top of your regular bills.

Roaming charges in China are quite expensive compared to most other countries. Here are some key things to know about roaming charges if you use your phone in China:

  • Voice Calls: Making outgoing calls can cost $1-3 per minute depending on the network and destination number. Incoming calls may also incur per minute fees.
  • Text Messages: Sending and receiving SMS texts will typically cost $0.15-0.30 per message.
  • Data Usage: Using data via 4G or 3G can be $10-20 per megabyte. It’s very easy to rack up high data roaming bills without realizing it.

II. Roaming Charges in China

1. How to Check Roaming Charges Before Your Travel To China

Source: Vodafone UK Roaming Charge Checker

Before embarking on your journey to China, it’s essential to research and understand the roaming charges that may apply to your specific mobile plan. Here are some steps you can take:

Contact Your Mobile Provider

The first step is to contact your mobile provider and inquire about their roaming rates and packages for China. Many carriers offer specific international roaming plans or add-ons that can help mitigate the costs associated with data roaming.

Research Applicable Roaming Fees

In addition to contacting your provider, you can also research their roaming fees online. Most mobile carriers have detailed information about international roaming charges on their websites, including specific rates for data, voice, and SMS services in China.

Call Customer Service

If you’re still unsure about the roaming charges or have specific questions, don’t hesitate to call your carrier’s customer service hotline. Representatives can provide you with personalized information based on your mobile plan and clarify any doubts you may have.

2. Roaming Charges in China by US Mobile Operators

To give you a better understanding of the potential roaming charges, here’s a table comparing the roaming rates of some major US mobile operators for China:

Mobile OperatorRoaming Rate
Verizon$1.99 per minute for international roaming calls
AT&T$2.05 per MB or $10/day with International Day Pass®
T-MobileFree texting and data at up to 256kpbs, voice calls at $0.25/minute
Note: These rates are subject to change, and it’s always advisable to confirm the current rates with your mobile operator before traveling.

As you can see, the roaming charges can vary significantly among different carriers. T-Mobile generally offers more affordable rates compared to Verizon and AT&T. However, it’s essential to consider your overall mobile usage and plan to determine the most cost-effective option.

III. Best Ways to Avoid Roaming Charges in China

While being informed about roaming charges is essential, it’s even better to explore ways to avoid or minimize these charges altogether. Here are some strategies you can consider:

1. Buy an eSIM from chinaesim.com

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card that allows you to activate a mobile data plan directly on your compatible device. chinaesim.com is a reputable provider of eSIMs specifically designed for travelers visiting China.

Benefits of Using an eSIM from chinaesim.com

  • Avoid Roaming Charges: By using an eSIM from chinaesim.com, you’ll be connected to a local Chinese network, eliminating the need for roaming and its associated charges.
  • Convenience: No need to physically obtain a SIM card or visit a local store. The eSIM can be purchased and activated directly on your device before or during your trip to China.
  • Compatibility: eSIMs are compatible with a growing number of devices from popular brands like Apple, Google, and Samsung.
  • Affordable Data Plans: chinaesim.com offers various data plans tailored to different travel durations and data needs, often at much lower rates than traditional roaming charges:
  • All Plans
  • Local
  • Multi Countries
Operator
Plan Name
Plan Validity
Data
Price

China eSIM 3GB total - 5 days

3GB
5 days
$7.00
China eSIM 3GB total - 5 days

China eSIM 3GB total - 5 days

5 days

3GB

$7.00

China eSIM 10GB total - 5 days

10GB
5 days
$15.50
China eSIM 10GB total - 5 days

China eSIM 10GB total - 5 days

5 days

10GB

$15.50

China eSIM 5GB total - 7 days

5GB
7 days
$11.00
China eSIM 5GB total - 7 days

China eSIM 5GB total - 7 days

7 days

5GB

$11.00

China eSIM 1GB/day - 7 days

1GB/day
7 days
$13.00
China eSIM 1GB/day - 7 days

China eSIM 1GB/day - 7 days

7 days

1GB/day

$13.00

China eSIM 10GB total - 10 days

10GB
10 days
$11.90
China eSIM 10GB total - 10 days

China eSIM 10GB total - 10 days

10 days

10GB

$11.90

China eSIM 3GB/days - 15 days

3GB/day
15 days
$52.00
Top Selling
China eSIM 3GB/days - 15 days

China eSIM 3GB/days - 15 days

Top Selling
15 days

3GB/day

$52.00

China eSIM 20GB total - 30 days

20GB
30 days
$36.90
China eSIM 20GB total - 30 days

China eSIM 20GB total - 30 days

30 days

20GB

$36.90

Greater China eSIM 10GB total - 10 days

10GB
10 days
$30.50
Greater China eSIM 10GB total - 10 days

Greater China eSIM 10GB total - 10 days

10 days

10GB

$30.50

Greater China eSIM 4GB/day - 15 days

4GB/day
15 days
$54.00
Greater China eSIM 4GB/day - 15 days

Greater China eSIM 4GB/day - 15 days

15 days

4GB/day

$54.00

China Vietnam eSIM 8GB total - 7 days

8GB
7 days
$45.00
China Vietnam eSIM 8GB total - 7 days

China Vietnam eSIM 8GB total - 7 days

7 days

8GB

$45.00

Goodbye Roaming Bills, Hello chinaesim.com

2. Buy a Local SIM Card

Another popular option for avoiding roaming charges in China is to purchase a local SIM card. This approach allows you to connect to a Chinese mobile network directly, eliminating the need for roaming.

Benefits of Using a Local SIM Card

  • Affordable Data Plans: Local SIM cards in China often offer cost-effective data plans tailored for tourists and travelers.
  • No Roaming Charges: By using a local SIM card, you’ll be connected to a Chinese network, effectively avoiding roaming charges from your home carrier.
  • Access to Local Services: With a local Chinese number, you may have easier access to certain services or apps that require a local phone number for verification.

Are you traveling to China soon? Don't miss out on important communications or getting directions on the go. Click here to learn about prepaid SIM options and choose the right plan for you.

3. Enable WiFi Calling

If your mobile carrier supports WiFi calling and your device is compatible, enabling this feature can help you save on roaming charges while in China.

Benefits of WiFi Calling

  • Make and Receive Calls Over WiFi: With WiFi calling enabled, you can make and receive calls using a WiFi connection instead of the mobile network, effectively avoiding voice roaming charges.
  • Send and Receive Messages Over WiFi: Similarly, you can send and receive text messages over WiFi, bypassing SMS roaming charges.
  • Use Your Regular Phone Number: WiFi calling allows you to use your regular phone number, eliminating the need for a separate local number.

How to Enable WiFi Calling

  1. Check if your mobile carrier supports WiFi calling and if your device is compatible with this feature.
  2. Follow the specific instructions provided by your carrier to enable WiFi calling on your device.
  3. When connected to a WiFi network in China, your device will automatically use WiFi calling for voice and messaging services, bypassing the mobile network and roaming charges.

IV. FAQs about Roaming in China

What is roaming and what are the fees?

Roaming refers to using your mobile device outside of your home network coverage area. Most carriers charge high roaming fees for calls, texts and data used overseas. For example, fees for 1GB of data while roaming in China can be over $100 USD.

How can I avoid roaming fees in China?

Purchasing a local SIM card or eSIM from Chinaesim.com is an affordable alternative to roaming with your regular carrier. The eSIMs provided by Chinaesim.com allow you to connect to local networks at local pricing, avoiding expensive roaming charges from your home carrier.

How do I set up an eSIM for use in China?

Chinaesim.com will provide instructions on installing the eSIM plan on your device. After purchasing, we will email you a QR code for your eSIM. Use your device’s settings to scan the code, then follow prompts to set it up. No need to switch physical SIM cards.

Will my phone work in China with a local SIM card?

Most modern smartphones are compatible with the cellular networks used in China. Read our article to find out more about How to Use Your Phone in China

V. Conclusion

Navigating the world of data roaming in China can be daunting, but with the right knowledge and strategies, you can stay connected without breaking the bank. By understanding roaming charges, exploring alternatives like eSIMs and local SIM cards, and enabling WiFi calling, you can enjoy seamless connectivity during your travels while avoiding the dreaded bill shocks.