When traveling to Shanghai, why should I consider whether a data roaming solution includes VPN access if I want to use Google Maps and YouTube?

This is because access to services like Google Maps and YouTube is generally blocked within China. Therefore, a roaming solution that allows access without a VPN is essential.

Which phone models are required to use an eSIM when traveling to Shanghai?

Only iPhone models 10 and later, and Galaxy models S23 and later can use an eSIM. First-time users might find the installation process confusing, so it's advisable to check the instructions beforehand.

Approximately how much does an unlimited 5G data eSIM cost per day for a trip to Shanghai, China?

An unlimited 5G data eSIM for a trip to Shanghai, China, can be used for around ~$2 per day. This is a level that won't significantly burden your travel expenses.

If I travel to Hong Kong or Macau along with China using a Chinese eSIM, can I use data there?

A Chinese eSIM does not cover Hong Kong or Macau. In such cases, you need to book a 'China-Hong Kong-Macau eSIM' that can be used across all three regions.

Shanghai eSIM Review: Unlimited Data for Your 2026 Trip

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Shanghai eSIM Review: Unlimited Data for Your 2026 Trip | TRVLOGUE

China eSIM Review

Recommended Unlimited eSIM for Shanghai Travel

Text/Photos ©HiCouple

Essential Data for Your Shanghai Adventure

When you're exploring Shanghai, China, reliable mobile data is absolutely crucial for every aspect of your trip – from making payments and navigating with maps to hailing taxis.

That's why seamless, high-speed data roaming is a must-have travel essential.

However, when it comes to China, there's a unique factor to consider beyond just data speed: the need for a VPN.

Access to popular services like Google Maps and YouTube is typically restricted within mainland China. This means you'll need a roaming solution that allows access without the hassle of a VPN.

Today, for those of you planning a trip to Shanghai, I'll break down the pros and cons of different data roaming options and introduce a fast, VPN-free roaming solution that I highly recommend!

Comparing Data Roaming Options for China

Let's compare four popular data roaming options for travelers heading to China.

Data Roaming Method	Pros	Cons
Carrier Roaming	Easy setup at airport carrier counters	Relatively high cost
Pocket WiFi	One device can be shared by multiple users	Must carry the device constantly
Physical SIM Card	Easy to use by simply swapping SIM cards Works with any phone model	Difficulty receiving calls from home country Risk of losing original SIM Potential shipping fees
eSIM	Most affordable due to no physical chip Instant installation anywhere Can receive calls from home country	Initial setup can be tricky Not compatible with some older phone models

📍 First up is Carrier Roaming, the most well-known method. Even if you're new to data roaming, you can easily set it up at your carrier's counter at the airport. However, it tends to be the most expensive option.

📍 Second, Pocket WiFi allows multiple people to share one device, making it a good choice if you're traveling with young children. The downside is that you have to carry the device with you everywhere, which can be a bit inconvenient.

📍 The third method is a Physical SIM Card. As long as you have the SIM chip, you can simply swap it into your phone for data roaming, regardless of your phone model. The drawbacks include difficulty receiving calls from your home country, the risk of losing your original SIM card, and potentially incurring shipping fees if you order it to be delivered before your trip.

📍 Finally, the fourth method is an eSIM. Since there's no physical chip, it's often the most affordable option, allowing you to purchase and install it instantly from anywhere. Plus, because it installs separately while retaining your existing SIM, you can receive calls from your home country even when you're abroad (though standard roaming charges may apply).

However, eSIMs are only compatible with iPhone 10 models and newer, and Samsung Galaxy S23 models and newer. First-time users might also find the installation process a bit confusing.

I've personally used all four methods, but for the past few years, I've stuck with eSIMs due to their incredible convenience of instant installation anywhere, affordable price, and fast data speeds.

>> Check out China eSIM options here <<

Once you learn the installation process, it's really quite simple. Let's move on to explore the different types of eSIMs available.

China eSIM Data Plans: Unlimited, Daily, and Pay-As-You-Go

China eSIMs generally come in three main types: unlimited data, daily 5G plans, and pay-as-you-go data.

· Unlimited data eSIMs allow you to use data without any capacity restrictions for a specified period.

· Daily plans offer a set amount of data (e.g., a few gigabytes) per day.

· Pay-as-you-go plans provide a fixed data allowance to be used over a specific duration.

Given that you'll use data constantly in China for everything from payments to taxi apps, I personally always opt for the unlimited data plan.

Even with a 5G unlimited data eSIM, the cost is typically around ~$2 per day, which is hardly a dent in your overall travel budget.

>> Book your China eSIM now <<

One important thing to note: many travelers combine their China trip with visits to Hong Kong or Macau. Standard China eSIMs typically won't cover these regions, so if your itinerary includes Hong Kong and Macau, make sure to book a specific China-Hong Kong-Macau eSIM package!

My Real-World Shanghai eSIM Experience

I recently visited Shanghai, China, in mid-June 2026 for a family trip, and I used a Klook China eSIM then, too.

Let me share my actual experience with it!

As soon as our plane touched down at the airport, I completed the eSIM setup as described earlier, and within seconds, my data connected.

I always like to let my family know I've arrived safely as soon as I land overseas, and with the immediate data connection, I could send them a message without any delay.

Afterward, to get from Shanghai Airport to the city center, I needed to take the Maglev and then the subway. Purchasing tickets required Alipay, and even underground, the data connection remained strong and uninterrupted, ensuring a smooth journey.

During my Shanghai trip, I even received a call from work due to an urgent matter. Since I was using an eSIM, I could answer the call from my home country and thankfully resolve the issue.

Thanks to the eSIM, my 3-night, 4-day Shanghai trip went off without a hitch. If you're looking for an affordable and convenient data roaming solution, I highly recommend trying an eSIM, just like I did!

You can find the eSIM I used available for a discounted booking at the link below. Happy travels!

Book your Shanghai China eSIM here