China connectivity guide
How tourists can buy a SIM card in China
A practical guide to reserving a China Unicom physical SIM, airport pickup, passport registration, and using a local +86 number.
TRAVEL CONNECTIVITY GUIDES
China SIM and airport pickup guides
Practical answers about +86 numbers, physical SIMs, eSIMs, passport registration, and airport pickup for travelers.
Updated: 2026-07-29Read guide
Local number guide
Why travelers may need a China +86 phone number
Understand how a local +86 number, SMS, calls, and mobile data differ from data-only products before choosing a China SIM.
Airport pickup guide
Complete guide to airport SIM pickup in China
Learn the China airport SIM pickup process, from online reservation and voucher to terminal directions and passport activation.
Product choice guide
eSIM or physical SIM for a trip to China
Compare China travel eSIM and physical SIM options for data, a +86 number, SMS, calls, airport pickup, and passport activation.