Before departure
Save your hotel name and address in Chinese, your flight and train confirmations, and a contact method you can use if your usual app is unavailable. Download offline information where supported.
Compare connection options
International roaming, travel eSIMs and local mobile plans have different prices, routing and registration requirements. Check the current terms directly with the provider.
At your hotel
Ask about Wi-Fi access and registration when checking in. Keep sensitive account access on trusted connections and avoid sharing verification codes with someone offering to troubleshoot your phone.
Budget for connectivity
Compare data amount, validity, top-up costs and hotspot restrictions. A cheaper headline price may not fit a long trip or a family sharing one connection.