Does Holafly Work in China? Complete eSIM Guide for 2025

Yes, Holafly eSIM works in China and provides unlimited data through China Mobile's network. The Holafly China eSIM offers 3G/4G/5G speeds with prices starting at $2.50 per day for a 30-day plan, making it one of the most reliable internet solutions for travelers visiting China.

As we plan our upcoming China trip using a 240-hour transit visa, we've been researching the best connectivity options for families traveling to China. Here's everything you need to know about using Holafly eSIM in China, including pricing, coverage, and essential tips for staying connected.

How Does Holafly Work in China?

Holafly China eSIM operates through China Mobile's network, providing unlimited data access across the country. The eSIM technology allows you to maintain internet connectivity without needing to purchase local SIM cards or worry about expensive roaming charges from your home carrier.

Key features of Holafly China eSIM:

• Network: China Mobile (largest carrier in China)
• Data: Unlimited with Fair Usage Policy
• Speed: 3G/4G/5G depending on location
• Hotspot: 500MB per day sharing capability
• Installation: QR code or manual setup
• Activation: Automatic upon arrival in China

The eSIM activates when you arrive in China and turn on data roaming for your Holafly line. You'll receive your QR code immediately after purchase via email, allowing you to install the eSIM before departure.

Holafly China eSIM Pricing 2025

Holafly China eSIM plans offer flexible duration options with decreasing daily costs for longer stays. Use code ADAMANDLINDS for 5% off your purchase.

The 10-day plan is perfect for travelers using China's 240-hour (10-day) transit visa, which allows visa-free entry for citizens from many countries when transiting through specific Chinese cities.

Does Holafly China Work in Hong Kong?

No, the Holafly China eSIM does not work in Hong Kong. Hong Kong operates as a separate telecommunications region from mainland China. If you're planning to visit both destinations, you'll need separate eSIM plans:

• For China: Holafly China eSIM
• For Hong Kong: Holafly Hong Kong eSIM (which covers Hong Kong but not mainland China)

Internet Access and VPN Requirements in China

China maintains strict internet regulations, blocking access to many Western websites and services including Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and YouTube. A reliable VPN is essential for accessing these blocked services.

Essential VPN Considerations for China

Before traveling to China, install and test your VPN while still outside the country. Many VPN websites and app stores are blocked within China, making it nearly impossible to set up VPN access after arrival.

Our recommended VPN solutions:

• Premium option: ExpressVPN - Consistently reliable in China with excellent customer support
• Best value: NordVPN - Excellent performance

What Works Without VPN in China

Services that work without VPN:

• WeChat (Chinese messaging app)
• Alipay and WeChat Pay (payment systems)
• Local Chinese websites and apps
• Email through Holafly eSIM
• Maps.me (offline maps)
• Translation apps (download offline content first)

Blocked services requiring VPN:

• Google (Gmail, Maps, Search, Play Store)
• Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp
• YouTube, TikTok (international version)
• Twitter/X
• Netflix, Spotify
• Many Western news websites

Holafly vs Local SIM Cards in China

Holafly eSIM advantages:

• No registration required: Chinese SIM cards require passport registration and can take hours to obtain
• Immediate activation: Works as soon as you land
• No language barriers: English customer support and setup
• Keep your regular number: Dual SIM functionality maintains access to home country services
• Tourist-friendly: No need to navigate local carrier stores

Local SIM card disadvantages for tourists:

• Requires passport and lengthy registration process
• Limited English support in carrier stores
• Often requires Chinese bank account for certain plans
• May not work immediately for foreign phones

Our China Travel Plans: Using the 240-Hour Transit Visa

We're planning to use China's 240-hour (10-day) transit visa during our upcoming travels, which allows visa-free entry when transiting through eligible Chinese cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and others. This visa is perfect for extended layovers or short cultural exploration trips.

For our 10-day China visit, we're planning:

• Connectivity: Holafly 10-day China eSIM ($36.90 with code ADAMANDLINDS)
• VPN setup: Installing and testing VPN before departure
• Payment: Setting up WeChat Pay for local transactions
• Transportation: Researching high-speed rail connections between cities

The 240-hour transit visa requires proof of onward travel to a third country (not your origin country), making it ideal for families like ours who are constantly moving between destinations.

Holafly China Coverage and Performance

Urban areas: Excellent 4G/5G coverage in major cities including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Chengdu. Download speeds typically range from 10-50 Mbps, sufficient for video calls and streaming.

Rural areas: Coverage decreases in remote mountainous regions, deserts, or rural areas. 3G speeds are common outside major urban centers.

Transportation: Good coverage on high-speed trains and in airports. Coverage can be spotty in subway systems depending on the city.

Tourist attractions: Most major tourist sites have reliable coverage, though some historical sites in remote areas may have weaker signals.

Installation and Setup Guide

Step 1: Purchase your Holafly China eSIM

• Use code ADAMANDLINDS for 5% off
• Check phone compatibility before purchasing

Step 2: Install eSIM before travel

• Scan QR code received via email
• Name the eSIM line "Holafly China" for easy identification
• Do NOT activate data roaming yet

Step 3: Activate upon arrival

• Turn on data roaming for Holafly eSIM line only
• Disable data roaming for your home carrier
• Connection should activate within minutes

Step 4: Test connectivity

• Verify internet access
• Test VPN connection
• Check that home country services still work on your primary line

Alternative eSIM Options for China

While Holafly is our recommended choice, other eSIM providers also work in China:

Airalo China eSIM: Limited data packages, lower cost but data restrictions. Use code ADAMLINDS3 for $3 off.

Simlocal China eSIM: Regional coverage with competitive pricing. Use code ADAMANDLINDS for 10% off.

Why we prefer Holafly for China:

• Unlimited data eliminates usage anxiety
• Excellent customer support in English
• Reliable China Mobile network access
• Proven track record with over 10 million eSIMs sold

Common Questions About Holafly in China

Does Holafly work well in China?

Yes, Holafly provides reliable connectivity through China Mobile's extensive network. Performance is excellent in urban areas and good in most tourist destinations.

Can I use WhatsApp with Holafly in China?

WhatsApp is blocked in China and requires a VPN to access, regardless of your internet provider. The Holafly eSIM will provide the internet connection, but you'll need VPN software to access WhatsApp.

Does Holafly China work for video calls?

Yes, with sufficient bandwidth for video calls through VPN-enabled apps. Local Chinese apps like WeChat work without VPN restrictions.

Is Holafly trustworthy for China travel?

Holafly maintains a 4.6 Trustpilot rating with over 53,000 reviews and has served more than 10 million travelers worldwide. They offer up to 6 months for refund requests and 24/7 customer support.

Essential Apps for China Travel

Download before departure:

• VPN app: ExpressVPN or NordVPN
• WeChat: Essential for communication and payments
• Maps.me: Offline maps that work without VPN
• Pleco: Chinese dictionary and translator
• Google Translate: Download Chinese language pack offline

Payment preparation:

• Set up WeChat Pay (requires Chinese bank account or international card)
• Carry cash as backup (many places still cash-only)
• Notify your bank of travel plans

Planning Your China Connectivity Strategy

Before departure checklist:

1. Purchase Holafly China eSIM with code ADAMANDLINDS
2. Install and test VPN while outside China (ExpressVPN or NordVPN)
3. Download essential apps and offline content
4. Verify phone eSIM compatibility
5. Set up WeChat account for local communication

Upon arrival:

1. Activate Holafly eSIM data roaming
2. Test internet connectivity
3. Connect VPN for blocked services
4. Register WeChat Pay for local payments

Why We're Choosing Holafly for Our China Adventure

As a family that's traveled to 20+ countries over the past three years, reliable internet connectivity is crucial for our safety, navigation, and staying connected with our audience. China's unique internet landscape makes preparation even more important.

Our decision factors:

• Unlimited data: No usage anxiety while navigating or uploading content
• Proven reliability: Positive reviews from fellow travel families
• English support: Important when troubleshooting with three kids in tow
• Fair pricing: $3.69 per day for our 10-day plan fits our budget
• Easy setup: No need to waste precious travel time in carrier stores

The Holafly China eSIM provides the connectivity foundation we need, while our VPN ensures access to the Western internet services our family and business depend on.

Bottom Line: Does Holafly Work in China?

Yes, Holafly eSIM works excellently in China through China Mobile's network. For families and travelers needing reliable, unlimited internet access, the Holafly China eSIM offers the best combination of convenience, reliability, and value.

Key takeaways:

• Purchase before departure and use code ADAMANDLINDS for 5% off
• Install VPN before entering China (essential for Western internet services)
• Choose the 10-day plan for 240-hour transit visa trips
• Expect excellent urban coverage, good coverage in tourist areas
• Budget $2.50-$3.79 per day depending on trip length

Ready to stay connected during your China adventure? Get your Holafly China eSIM here and use code ADAMANDLINDS for 5% off your purchase.

FTC Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services we genuinely use and believe in. All opinions are our own and based on our extensive travel experience across 20+ countries.