Out of Heathrow, into Beijing or Shanghai — you want Google Maps and WhatsApp working before you reach your hotel. A China eSIM gives UK travellers exactly that, without losing your UK number or paying Vodafone/EE roaming.
UK carrier roaming in China is typically £5–£7/day and often throttled. A dedicated China eSIM is a fraction of the cost for far more data, installs in two minutes, and keeps your +44 line live for calls and bank 2FA texts.
Why UK travellers choose an eSIM
- Cheaper than roaming: fixed data bundles instead of per-day charges.
- Keep your UK number: your physical SIM stays in — the eSIM only adds China data.
- Instant: a QR by email; install on the plane or in the airport lounge.
Will your phone work?
Almost every UK-bought phone from ~2020 supports eSIM if it’s unlocked: iPhone XS or newer, Google Pixel 3+, Samsung Galaxy S20+ and newer, recent Huawei/Honor/O2/Vodafone handsets. If you bought on a carrier payment plan, confirm it’s unlocked first.
Plans & coverage
Prepaid China data eSIMs by amount and days — daily packages (1–3 GB/day) or fixed bundles (5–20 GB over 7–30 days). Live prices and current bundles are on the Travel eSIM page. Most UK visitors use 1–2 GB/day in cities.
Install in 3 steps
- Buy your plan; receive the eSIM QR by email.
- Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data → Add eSIM → scan. Label it “China”; keep your UK line on.
- Turn on Data Roaming for the China line only. It connects on landing.
FAQ
Do I keep my UK number for calls and texts?
Yes — the eSIM adds data; your UK SIM stays active.
Does WhatsApp work in China?
WhatsApp can be unreliable without a VPN; set one up before you travel. Your eSIM provides the connection.
When should I install it?
Before you fly, on WiFi. It only uses data once you’re in China.
Can I top up mid-trip?
Yes — buy another plan and add it as a second eSIM.
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