Best SIM cards for travelling in China and Hong Kong

Alex Choros - Managing Editor + Group Telco Editor

Fergus Halliday - Digital Content Editor

Last updated 21 September 2026

Contents

In this SIM cards for China guide:

Buying a Chinese eSIM card
Get a China SIM card
Roaming in China and Hong Kong with your telco
SIM cards for travelling in China FAQs

Want to see the Great Wall of China without racking up a Great Wall-sized roaming bill?
Taking your phone overseas is easier than you think! Whether you want a brand new SIM or to use your existing plan you have plenty of options. But if you're hoping to take your phone overseas, it's not always cheap.

International roaming bills can add up quickly, especially if you're using data outside of Australia. For longer trips, we'd recommend getting a travel eSIM or a local SIM card instead.

For shorter trips or if you need your Australian number when in China or Hong Kong, roaming with an Australian provider is usually a better choice. So whether you want to use your own Australia mobile plan in China or Hong Kong, get a travel eSIM, or pick up a local SIM on arrival, here are our top picks for the best value options.

Before we start, here are the cheapest roaming-compatible plans from each postpaid telco featured in this guide:

#1	Tangerine Telecom	Tangerine Telecom 30GB 5G Mobile SIM 30GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Uses parts of Telstra’s 5G and 4G mobile networks Deal: 50% off plan fees for 4 months - $15/mth for 4 months then $30/mth. Offer available until withdrawn. $30.00/mth Min. cost $15 Go to Site	$30.00/mth Min. cost $15	Go to Site
#2	Aussie Broadband	Aussie Broadband Saver 5G SIM Plan 20GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Optus 5G in selected areas with 5G devices ex. NT $30.00/mth Min. cost $30 Link not supplied	$30.00/mth Min. cost $30	Link not supplied
#3	Belong	Belong 25GB Mobile Plan 85GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Uses parts of Telstra’s 5G and 4G mobile networks Deal: Includes 60GB monthly bonus data for first 12 months when you activate your new service by 04.11.26. T&Cs apply. $34.00/mth Min. cost $34 Link not supplied	$34.00/mth Min. cost $34	Link not supplied
#4	Optus	Optus $60 Optus Choice Plus Plan 100GB data Optus 5G in selected areas (exc NT) with a 5G device Deal: $39/mth and 100GB/mth for first 12 months, then 60GB/mth and $60/mth or as notified. New services. Ends 12.11.26. Terms apply. $39.00/mth Min. cost $39 Go to Site	$39.00/mth Min. cost $39	Go to Site
#5	Vodafone	Vodafone $58 Small SIM Only Plan 65GB data Vodafone 5G Network in selected areas with 5G devices Deal: Includes $13/mth off plan fees for first 12 months when you stay connected to this plan. Ends 29.10.26. T&Cs apply. $45.00/mth Min. cost $45 Go to Site	$45.00/mth Min. cost $45	Go to Site
#6	Telstra	Telstra $84 Essential Upfront Mobile Plan 180GB data Telstra 5G Network in selected areas with 5G devices Deal: Get $10 off for first 12 months on new Upfront Essential Mobile Plan. New services only. Ends 05.10.26 $74.00/mth Min. cost $74 Link not supplied	$74.00/mth Min. cost $74	Link not supplied

And here you'll find the cheapest roaming-compatible plans from each prepaid telco featured here with a minimum 28-day expiry:

$28 Prepaid

8GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps
Telstra 5G Network in selected areas with 5G devices

$28.00

Per 28 Day Renewal

Go to Site

$28.00

Per 28 Day Renewal

Go to Site

felix 25GB Mobile Plan

25GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps
On the Vodafone 5G/4G Mobile Network
Deal: Get 50% off your first 3 mths when you switch to felix. $15/mth for first 3 mths, then $30/mth. Use promo code FELIX50. T+Cs apply

$30.00

Per 1 Month Renewal

Go to Site

$30.00

Per 1 Month Renewal

Go to Site

UNLIMITED 15GB Plan

15GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps
Optus 5G in selected areas with 5G devices ex. NT

$30.00

Per 28 Day Renewal

Link not supplied

$30.00

Per 28 Day Renewal

Link not supplied

Buying a Chinese eSIM

Using a travel eSIM can be more straightforward and convenient for getting your mobile set up in China. You'll just need to make sure you have access to an eSIM compatible device and remember to download the digital SIM card before you leave Australia once you land at your destination.

Travel eSIMs are effectively prepaid as you pay upfront, and they don't renew automatically. If you go over your allowance, you won't be charged extra. Instead, your service will just stop working.

Airalo is one of our favourite eSIM providers. Airalo's Mainland China eSIM plans use the China Unicom network and come with VPN access. For Hong Kong Airalo uses CSL which is part of HKT.

Plans start at $6 for 1GB of data with a three-day expiry. While most of Airalo's plans are data-only, it also has options with talk and text now. Airalo's China SIMs won't work in Hong Kong, but it does have Asia SIMs that cover both if you're jumping around.

Jetpac is another eSIM provider worth considering. Jetpac's plans tend to be a little more expensive than Airalo's. Plans start at $6 for 1GB of data with a one-day expiry. If you run out of data on a Jetpac eSIM, you can still use WhatsApp, Uber, Grab, and Google Maps.

Some Jetpac travel eSIMs have a unique perk where you can score for free airport lounge access if your flight is delayed. This is done by registering your flight in the Jetpac app.

Last but not least, there's Saily. If you're after an eSIM travel plan that also lets you make phone calls, it might be a good option. This provider offers the ability to add a phone number for an extra USD$1 per month, which is relatively competitive when you compare it against the premium that comes attached to Airalo's eSIM plans that includes calls and texts.

Here's a look at travel eSIMs for the China or Hong Kong from some of our favourite providers with at least 5GB and a seven-day expiry:

Provider	Plan
Airalo	$21 for 5GB with a seven-day expiry	View on Airalo
Jetpac	USD$10 for 5GB with a seven-day expiry	View on Jetpac
Saily	USD$15.99 for 5GB with a 30-day expiry	View on Saily

For a longer trip, here's a look at plans with at least 10GB and a 14-day expiry minimum:

Provider	Plan
Airalo	$36.50 for 10GB with a 15-day expiry	View on Airalo
Jetpac	USD$24 for 10GB with a 30-day expiry	View on Jetpac
Saily	USD$26.99 for 10GB with a 30-day expiry	View on Saily

Aside from Saily, it's worth keeping in mind that most China eSIM options are data-only. This means you won't be able to make calls or send text messages.

If you don't need the ability to make calls or send text messages (and you have a compatible device), the travel eSIM plans tend to be better value than what's offered by local providers when it comes to cheaper options.

Travelling with eSIM: Everything you need to know

Instead of hunting around an airport looking for a local SIM, just use an app to add a new plan to your phone via the internet thanks to eSIMs. Find out how by viewing our guide to travelling with eSIM.

Get a Chinese SIM card

If you're planning on staying in China for a longer period of time, you could consider picking up a local SIM card when you arrive. Even Vodafone's $5 per day roaming quickly adds up once you're overseas for more than seven days.

There are three major telcos in China: China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. Each is compatible with phones sold in Australia but you'll need to check your phone is unlocked before you put in a new SIM - most are unlocked these days but it's still good to check. Also make sure to check the terms and conditions of your plan, you don't want to sign up for one on a contract.

We recommend picking up a SIM from a retail store once you get settled in rather than buying something overpriced at the airport. In many cases, providers charge an upfront fee from which they then deduct your monthly plan fees. Different regions can charge different rates.

China Mobile

If you're looking for an easy option, we'd recommend China Mobile. Although this carrier’s prepaid plans are a little more expensive than the competition, it does offer comprehensive national coverage across China — which makes it a better fit for those looking to travel between different regions.

China Mobile’s cheapest SmartCard SIM for tourists is priced at 100 CNY (approximately $20 AUD) and comes with 30GB of data, seven-day expiry, 100 minutes of domestic talk and 10 domestic SMS texts.

Here are China Mobile's SmartCard SIM card plans:

Price	Data	Talk	Texts	Expiry
CNY ¥100	30GB	100 mins to China	10 to China	7 days
CNY ¥120	35GB	150 mins to China	10 to China	10 days
CNY ¥150	50GB	200 mins to China	10 to China	15 days
CNY ¥250	80GB	300 mins to China	10 to China	30 days

China Mobile SIMs can be found in China Mobile stores across China. However, if you're buying one locally then you will be required to present your passport before purchase.

China Unicom

China Telecom is another option worth considering. Compared to China Telecom, it offers better coverage in northern regions. The other advantage for tourists is that you can order it ahead of time rather than track it down once you land. The downside is that this carrier's SIM card plans aren't as competitive. China Unicom's cheapest plan starts at $25 for 5GB and a seven-day expiry.

Here are China Unicom's Prepaid SIM card plans:

Price	Data	Talk	Texts	Expiry
USD $25	5GB	75 mins to China	10 to China	7 days
USD $35	10GB	75 mins to China	10 to China	15 days
USD $42	30GB	75 mins to China	10 to China	30 days

As mentioned, one of the main advantages to going with this carrier over China Mobile is that you can source a SIM card ahead of time. Even so, you are still be required to present your passport before purchase.

China Telecom

Finally, there's China Telecom. This carrier rounds out the region's big three players by offering more comprehensive coverage for those in southern and western parts of China. Exact pricing for its local prepaid plans is tricky to track down as information about its plans is typically only accessible via WeChat.

However, this carrier does also offer a number of tourist SIM card plans aimed at those visiting from Europe. The cheapest of these SIM plans comes in at £9 and comes with 15GB of data, 1GB of roaming data, 50 minutes of international calls and a 30-day expiry.

For a sense of how it compares, here are China Telecom's tourist SIM card plans:

Price	Data	Talk	Texts	Expiry
£9	15GB	50 mins to Europe	N/A	30 days
£11	30GB	50 mins to Europe	N/A	30 days
£14	50GB	50 mins to Europe	N/A	30 days
£22	50GB	50 mins to Europe	N/A	90 days

China Telecom SIMs can be found in China Telecom stores across China. However, if you're buying one locally, then you will be required to present your passport before purchase.

Internet restrictions in China

If you pick up a local SIM, you'll be subject to China's "Great Firewall", and won't be able to access websites such as Facebook, Google, WhatsApp, Messenger YouTube, Dropbox, Instagram, or Twitter without the use of a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Our sister site Reviews.org/au has a guide to the best VPN services available. Just make sure you sign up and set up your VPN before you leave. The firewall is designed to combat VPNs, so be aware that they may not always be reliable.

If you happen to be passing through Hong Kong, China Unicom operates as an MVNO. If you buy a China Unicom SIM in Hong Kong, you'll be able to roam in China and should bypass the firewall. If you're roaming on an Australia SIM, you should still have access to all your favourite online content.

Roaming in China and Hong Kong with your telco

For shorter trips, roaming with your telco can be a good option. It is also the only way to keep using your Australian number while in China and Hong Kong, which can be important if you're overseas for business rather than leisure.

Below we've taken a look at the price per day and price per gigabyte for providers you can roam with in China and Hong Kong at a decent rate. We haven't looked at providers that are too expensive or only have pay-as-you-go options. Click on any provider's name to get more information about their roaming offer.

Provider	Price per day	Price per gigabyte	Countries
felix mobile	$0.05	$5	Over 40
Vodafone	$5	N/A	Over 100
Optus	$5	$1	Over 150
Telstra	$10	$5	Over 80
Belong	$2	$10	Over 45
Aussie Broadband	$5	$1	Over 150
Tangerine	Between $3.93 and $5	Between $5.50 and $10	Over 60
More	Between $3.93 and $5	Between $5.50 and $10	Over 60
Kogan	Between $6.43 and $10	Between $9 and $12.50	30
amaysim	Between $0.06 and $0.19	Between $7.78 and $12.50	Over 120

Roaming in China and Hong Kong with felix

Price per day: $0.05
Price per gigabyte: $5

felix mobile is one of the few smaller providers with a genuinely great roaming offer: a $20 roaming pack. This gets you 4GB of data, 100 texts, and 100 minutes of calls on a 365-day expiry. If you're mooching off as much public WiFi as you can find while travelling, 4GB could even last your entire trip!

Here are felix mobile's plans:

#1	felix mobile	felix mobile felix 25GB Mobile Plan 25GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps On the Vodafone 5G/4G Mobile Network Deal: Get 50% off your first 3 mths when you switch to felix. $15/mth for first 3 mths, then $30/mth. Use promo code FELIX50. T+Cs apply $30.00 Per 1 Month Renewal Go to Site	$30.00 Per 1 Month Renewal	Go to Site
#2	felix mobile	felix mobile felix 50GB Mobile Plan 50GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps On the Vodafone 5G/4G Mobile Network Deal: Get 50% off your first 3 mths when you switch to felix. $17.50/mth for first 3 mths, then $35/mth. Use promo code FELIX50. T+Cs apply $35.00 Per 1 Month Renewal Go to Site	$35.00 Per 1 Month Renewal	Go to Site
#3	felix mobile	felix mobile felix Unlimited Mobile Plan Unlimited data at download speeds up to 40Mbps On the Vodafone 5G/4G Mobile Network Deal: Get 50% off your first 3 mths when you switch to felix. $20/mth for first 3 mths, then $40/mth. Use promo code FELIX50. T+Cs apply $40.00 Per 1 Month Renewal Go to Site	$40.00 Per 1 Month Renewal	Go to Site
#4	felix mobile	felix mobile felix Unlimited+ Mobile Plan Unlimited data at download speeds up to 80Mbps On the Vodafone 5G/4G Mobile Network $50.00 Per 1 Month Renewal Go to Site	$50.00 Per 1 Month Renewal	Go to Site

felix's roaming isn't as broadly available as options from The Big Three: it only works in around 40 destinations. Most popular countries are included, including China and Hong Kong.

Roaming in China and Hong Kong with Vodafone

Price per day: $5
Price per gigabyte: N/A

Vodafone postpaid plans are one of the best choices for heading overseas, thanks to $5 roaming. For $5 per day, you're able to use your local inclusions overseas in over 100 countries. This means you don't have to worry about a separate overseas data allowance - your usage will work the same way it does in Australia.

The $5 per day charge will only be added to your bill on days when you make a call, send a text, or use data overseas. Just note, that you can only use $5 roaming for a maximum of 90 days of the calendar year.

These Vodafone postpaid plans all include $5 roaming:

#1	Vodafone	Vodafone $58 Small SIM Only Plan 65GB data Vodafone 5G Network in selected areas with 5G devices Deal: Includes $13/mth off plan fees for first 12 months when you stay connected to this plan. Ends 29.10.26. T&Cs apply. $45.00/mth Min. cost $45 Go to Site	$45.00/mth Min. cost $45	Go to Site
#2	Vodafone	Vodafone $68 Medium SIM Only Plan 220GB data Vodafone 5G Network in selected areas with 5G devices Deal: Includes $18/mth off plan fees for first 12 months when you stay connected to this plan. Ends 29.10.26. T&Cs apply. $50.00/mth Min. cost $50 Go to Site	$50.00/mth Min. cost $50	Go to Site
#3	Vodafone	Vodafone $78 Large SIM Only Plan 420GB data Vodafone 5G Network in selected areas with 5G devices Deal: Includes $23/mth off plan fees for first 12 months when you stay connected to this plan. Ends 29.10.26. T&Cs apply. $55.00/mth Min. cost $55 Go to Site	$55.00/mth Min. cost $55	Go to Site

Roaming in China and Hong Kong with Optus

Price per day: $5
Price per gigabyte: $1

If you're an Optus postpaid customer on a Choice Plus plan, you'll use Optus' $5 roaming. $5 per day will give you 5GB of data per day, in addition to unlimited standard talk and text. All unused data expires at the end of each day, but if you go over your allowance, another $5 pack will automatically be purchased.

These Optus postpaid plans all support $5 Roaming:

#1	Optus	Optus $60 Optus Choice Plus Plan 100GB data Optus 5G in selected areas (exc NT) with a 5G device Deal: $39/mth and 100GB/mth for first 12 months, then 60GB/mth and $60/mth or as notified. New services. Ends 12.11.26. Terms apply. $39.00/mth Min. cost $39 Go to Site	$39.00/mth Min. cost $39	Go to Site
#2	Optus	Optus $69 Optus Promo Plan 360GB data Optus 5G in selected areas (exc NT) with a 5G device Deal: Get up to $10/mth SubHub credit to use on your favourite subscriptions for 12 months. T&Cs apply. $69.00/mth Min. cost $69 Go to Site	$69.00/mth Min. cost $69	Go to Site
#3	Optus	Optus $70 Optus Choice Plus Plan 240GB data Optus 5G in selected areas (exc NT) with a 5G device $70.00/mth Min. cost $70 Go to Site	$70.00/mth Min. cost $70	Go to Site
#4	Optus	Optus $90 Optus Choice Plus Plan 480GB data Optus 5G in selected areas (exc NT) with a 5G device SubHub: Receive up to $20/mth SubHub credit when you have an active SubHub account with subs greater than $0. T&Cs apply $90.00/mth Min. cost $90 Go to Site	$90.00/mth Min. cost $90	Go to Site

You can only use the $5 Roaming option in what Optus calls "Zone 1" countries. This covers over 150 destinations, including China and Hong Kong.

If you have an Optus Flex Plus prepaid mobile plan, you have four roaming options to pick from:

Pack	Expiry	Inclusions
$5	1-day	Up to 25 mins, 50 texts, 1GB
$25	14-day	Up to 50 mins, 50 texts, 5GB
$45	28-day	Up to 100 mins, 100 texts, 10GB
$75	186-day	Up to 100 mins, 100 texts, 15GB

Roaming in China and Hong Kong with Telstra

Price per day: $10
Price per gigabyte: $5

To use a Telstra Upfront plan overseas, you will need to purchase an International Day Pass. While overseas, you'll get unlimited calls, unlimited text and a 2GB data allowance for $10 per day in over 80 countries. This list includes both China and Hong Kong.

If you exceed your daily data allowance, you'll be charged an extra $10 for 2GB. This data has a 31-day expiry, and can be used on any day you exceed your daily 2GB. Note that Telstra's roaming inclusions tick over at midnight Australia time (AEST) rather than based on your destination's time zone.

If you want to send an MMS, you'll be billed $0.75 per message.

Here is Telstra's range of Upfront plans:

$84 Essential Upfront SIM Plan

180GB data
Telstra 5G Network in selected areas with 5G devices
Deal: Get $10 off for first 12 months on new Upfront Essential Mobile Plan. New services only. Ends 05.10.26

$74.00/mth

Min. cost $74

Link not supplied

$74.00/mth

Min. cost $74

Link not supplied

$74 Basic Upfront SIM Plan

50GB data
Telstra 5G Network in selected areas with 5G devices

$74.00/mth

Min. cost $74

Link not supplied

$74.00/mth

Min. cost $74

Link not supplied

$99 Premium Upfront SIM Plan

300GB data
Telstra 5G Network in selected areas with 5G devices
Deal: Get $15 off for first 12 months on new Upfront Premium Mobile Plan. New services only. Ends 05.10.26

$84.00/mth

Min. cost $84

Link not supplied

$84.00/mth

Min. cost $84

Link not supplied

If you're on a Telstra Upfront plan and you travel outside of an eligible destination, you simply won't be able to use your service.

Telstra prepaid customers can buy an international roaming pack. These are as follows:

Pack	Price	Inclusions
Three-day expiry	$10	15 mins, 15 texts, 400MB data
Seven-day expiry	$15	25 mins, 25 texts, 2GB
14-day expiry	$25	50 mins, 50 texts, 4GB

Roaming in China and Hong Kong with Belong

Price per day: $2
Price per gigabyte: $10

Telstra's budget brand Belong has just one roaming option. For $30, you get 3GB of data, 150 minutes of calls and unlimited standard SMS for use over 15 days. If you run out of data early, you can purchase another add-on.

You can use this add-on in over 45 destinations, including China and Hong Kong.

All Belong customers get free access to its basic roaming service, which means you can receive SMS while still overseas and use WiFi calling when on a suitable network. This can be useful if you need to receive SMS verification codes for online banking, for example.

Here are the Belong plans eligible for roaming:

#1	Belong	Belong 25GB Mobile Plan 85GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Uses parts of Telstra’s 5G and 4G mobile networks Deal: Includes 60GB monthly bonus data for first 12 months when you activate your new service by 04.11.26. T&Cs apply. $34.00/mth Min. cost $34 Link not supplied	$34.00/mth Min. cost $34	Link not supplied
#2	Belong	Belong 40GB Mobile Plan 100GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Uses parts of Telstra’s 5G and 4G mobile networks Deal: Includes 60GB monthly bonus data for first 12 months when you activate your new service by 04.11.26. T&Cs apply. $39.00/mth Min. cost $39 Link not supplied	$39.00/mth Min. cost $39	Link not supplied
#3	Belong	Belong 100GB Mobile Plan 160GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Uses parts of Telstra’s 5G and 4G mobile networks Deal: Includes 60GB monthly bonus data for first 12 months when you activate your new service by 04.11.26. T&Cs apply. $49.00/mth Min. cost $49 Link not supplied	$49.00/mth Min. cost $49	Link not supplied
#4	Belong	Belong 160GB Mobile Plan 220GB data at download speeds up to 250Mbps Uses parts of Telstra’s 5G and 4G mobile networks Deal: Includes 60GB monthly bonus data for first 12 months when you activate your new service by 04.11.26. T&Cs apply. $59.00/mth Min. cost $59 Link not supplied	$59.00/mth Min. cost $59	Link not supplied

Roaming in China and Hong Kong with Aussie Broadband

Price per day: $5
Price per gigabyte: $1

Aussie Broadband's roaming offer is identical to what Optus postpaid customers get: $5 per day with 5GB in any Zone 1 destination. This covers over 150 countries, including China and Hong Kong.

Here are Aussie Broadband's mobile plans you can roam in China and Hong Kong with:

#1	Aussie Broadband	Aussie Broadband Saver 5G SIM Plan 20GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Optus 5G in selected areas with 5G devices ex. NT $30.00/mth Min. cost $30 Link not supplied	$30.00/mth Min. cost $30	Link not supplied
#2	Aussie Broadband	Aussie Broadband Value 5G SIM Plan 45GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Optus 5G in selected areas with 5G devices ex. NT $40.00/mth Min. cost $40 Link not supplied	$40.00/mth Min. cost $40	Link not supplied
#3	Aussie Broadband	Aussie Broadband Essential 5G SIM Plan 100GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Optus 5G in selected areas with 5G devices ex. NT $50.00/mth Min. cost $50 Link not supplied	$50.00/mth Min. cost $50	Link not supplied
#4	Aussie Broadband	Aussie Broadband Premium 5G SIM Plan 180GB data at download speeds up to 250Mbps Optus 5G in selected areas with 5G devices ex. NT $60.00/mth Min. cost $60 Link not supplied	$60.00/mth Min. cost $60	Link not supplied

Roaming in China and Hong Kong with Tangerine

Price per day: Between $3.93 and $5
Price per gigabyte: Between $5.50 and $10

Telstra MVNO Tangerine has two international roaming packs to pick from. Customers can choose a seven-day roaming pack or a slightly longer 14-day pack. Roaming packs work up until 11:59PM (AEST) on your last included day.

These international roaming packs cover plenty of popular destinations across Asia, including China and Hong Kong

Here are the full details of Tangerine's roaming packs:

Pack	Price	Inclusions
Seven-day expiry	$35	30 mins, 30 texts, 5GB
14-day expiry	$55	60 mins, 60 texts, 10GB

Below are Tangerine's plans that work with roaming packs:

#1	Tangerine Telecom	Tangerine Telecom 30GB 5G Mobile SIM 30GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Uses parts of Telstra’s 5G and 4G mobile networks Deal: 50% off plan fees for 4 months - $15/mth for 4 months then $30/mth. Offer available until withdrawn. $30.00/mth Min. cost $15 Go to Site	$30.00/mth Min. cost $15	Go to Site
#2	Tangerine Telecom	Tangerine Telecom 50GB 5G Mobile SIM 50GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Uses parts of Telstra’s 5G and 4G mobile networks Deal: 50% off plan fees for 4 months - $18/mth for 4 months then $36/mth. Offer available until withdrawn. $36.00/mth Min. cost $18 Go to Site	$36.00/mth Min. cost $18	Go to Site
#3	Tangerine Telecom	Tangerine Telecom 75GB 5G Mobile SIM 75GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Uses parts of Telstra’s 5G and 4G mobile networks Deal: 50% off plan fees for 4 months - $21/mth for 4 months then $42/mth. Offer available until withdrawn. $42.00/mth Min. cost $21 Go to Site	$42.00/mth Min. cost $21	Go to Site
#4	Tangerine Telecom	Tangerine Telecom 100GB 5G Mobile SIM 100GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Uses parts of Telstra’s 5G and 4G mobile networks Deal: 50% off plan fees for 4 months - $24/mth for 4 months then $48/mth. Offer available until withdrawn. $48.00/mth Min. cost $24 Go to Site	$48.00/mth Min. cost $24	Go to Site
#5	Tangerine Telecom	Tangerine Telecom 160GB 5G Mobile SIM 160GB data at download speeds up to 250Mbps Uses parts of Telstra’s 5G and 4G mobile networks Deal: 50% off plan fees for 4 months - $30/mth for 4 months then $60/mth. Offer available until withdrawn. $60.00/mth Min. cost $30 Go to Site	$60.00/mth Min. cost $30	Go to Site

Roaming in China and Hong Kong with More

Price per day: Between $3.93 and $5
Price per gigabyte: Between $5.50 and $10

More offers identical international roaming packs to its sibling brand Tangerine. More's roaming packs work in over 65 countries, including China and Hong Kong.

Pack	Price	Inclusions
Seven-day expiry	$35	30 mins, 30 texts, 5GB
14-day expiry	$55	60 mins, 60 texts, 10GB

Here are More's mobile plans that you can roam with:

#1	More	More 30GB 5G Mobile SIM 30GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Uses Telstra Wholesale 4G/5G mobile networks Deal: Get $10/mth off new mobile plans for 36mths, then $4/mth ongoing when you sign up with a CommBank debit or credit card. Ends 31.3.27 $33.00/mth Min. cost $33 Link not supplied	$33.00/mth Min. cost $33	Link not supplied
#2	More	More 50GB 5G Mobile SIM 50GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Uses Telstra Wholesale 4G/5G mobile networks Deal: Get $10/mth off new mobile plans for 36mths, then $4/mth ongoing when you sign up with a CommBank debit or credit card. Ends 31.3.27 $40.00/mth Min. cost $40 Link not supplied	$40.00/mth Min. cost $40	Link not supplied
#3	More	More 75GB 5G Mobile SIM 75GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Uses Telstra Wholesale 4G/5G mobile networks Deal: Get $10/mth off new mobile plans for 36mths, then $4/mth ongoing when you sign up with a CommBank debit or credit card. Ends 31.3.27 $46.00/mth Min. cost $46 Link not supplied	$46.00/mth Min. cost $46	Link not supplied
#4	More	More 100GB 5G Mobile SIM 100GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Uses Telstra Wholesale 4G/5G mobile networks Deal: Get $10/mth off new mobile plans for 36mths, then $4/mth ongoing when you sign up with a CommBank debit or credit card. Ends 31.3.27 $52.00/mth Min. cost $52 Link not supplied	$52.00/mth Min. cost $52	Link not supplied
#5	More	More 160GB 5G Mobile SIM 160GB data at download speeds up to 250Mbps Uses Telstra Wholesale 4G/5G mobile networks Deal: Get $10/mth off new mobile plans for 36mths, then $4/mth ongoing when you sign up with a CommBank debit or credit card. Ends 31.3.27 $65.00/mth Min. cost $65 Link not supplied	$65.00/mth Min. cost $65	Link not supplied

Roaming in China and Hong Kong with Boost Mobile

Price per day: Between $2.85 and $6.67
Price per gigabyte: Between $5.71 and $10

Boost Mobile, a Telstra Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), is another telco offering customers International Roaming Packs. Boost Mobile customers can choose from three roaming options:

Pack	Price	Inclusions
Three-day expiry	$20	15 mins, 15 texts, 2GB
Seven-day expiry	$30	30 mins, 30 texts, 5GB
14-day expiry	$40	60 mins, 60 texts, 7GB

Each option covers 42 countries, which include both China and Hong Kong. You need an active Boost Mobile prepaid plan to use its roaming pack. These are as follows:

#1	Boost Mobile	Boost Mobile $14 Prepaid 6GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Telstra 5G Network in selected areas with 5G devices $14.00 Per 7 Day Renewal Go to Site	$14.00 Per 7 Day Renewal	Go to Site
#2	Boost Mobile	Boost Mobile $28 Prepaid 8GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Telstra 5G Network in selected areas with 5G devices $28.00 Per 28 Day Renewal Go to Site	$28.00 Per 28 Day Renewal	Go to Site
#3	Boost Mobile	Boost Mobile $39 Prepaid 30GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Telstra 5G Network in selected areas with 5G devices Deal: Grab a $39 SIM for $13 – save $26. Hurry! Offer ends 05.10.26. Terms Apply $39.00 Per 28 Day Renewal Go to Site	$39.00 Per 28 Day Renewal	Go to Site
#4	Boost Mobile	Boost Mobile $49 Prepaid 75GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Telstra 5G Network in selected areas with 5G devices Deal: Get 75GB data on first 6 recharges, then 45GB from 7th recharge. New customers only. Activate by 02.11.26 $49.00 Per 28 Day Renewal Go to Site	$49.00 Per 28 Day Renewal	Go to Site
#5	Boost Mobile	Boost Mobile $59 Prepaid 105GB data at download speeds up to 250Mbps Telstra 5G Network in selected areas with 5G devices Deal: Get 105GB data on first 6 recharges, then 55GB from 7th recharge. New customers only. Activate by 02.11.26 $59.00 Per 28 Day Renewal Go to Site	$59.00 Per 28 Day Renewal	Go to Site
#6	Boost Mobile	Boost Mobile $74 Prepaid 150GB Uncapped download speed Telstra 5G Network in selected areas with 5G devices Deal: Get 150GB data on first 6 recharges, then 100GB from 7th recharge. New customers only. Activate by 02.11.26 $74.00 Per 28 Day Renewal Go to Site	$74.00 Per 28 Day Renewal	Go to Site

Roaming in China and Hong Kong with Kogan Mobile

Price per day: Between $6.43 and $10
Price per gigabyte: Between $9 and $12.50

Kogan Mobile offers three international roaming packs for use in about 30 countries. This list of destinations covers both China and Hong Kong.

Here are Kogan's roaming packs:

Expiry	Price	Inclusions
One-day expiry	$10	Up to 50 mins, 50 texts, 1GB
Three-day expiry	$25	Up to 100 mins, 100 texts, 2GB
Seven-day expiry	$45	Up to 150 mins, 150 texts, 5GB

Call minutes and SMS (text only) include standard calls to and from the selected countries and standard numbers in Australia.

If Kogan's offer works for you, you can purchase the international roaming pack via the Kogan Mobile app, use your online account or call customer support, or text "ROAM" to 12612 from your mobile.

#1	Kogan Mobile	Kogan Mobile Small Monthly Plan 25GB data On the Vodafone 4G Mobile Network $23.00 Per 30 Day Renewal Go to Site	$23.00 Per 30 Day Renewal	Go to Site
#2	Kogan Mobile	Kogan Mobile Medium Monthly Plan 60GB data On the Vodafone 4G Mobile Network Deal: Get 60GB for $12 (includes $13 off for first month + 20GB bonus data for 3 months), then 40GB for $25 thereafter, valid until 04.10.26 $29.00 Per 30 Day Renewal Go to Site	$29.00 Per 30 Day Renewal	Go to Site
#3	Kogan Mobile	Kogan Mobile Large Monthly Plan 80GB data Vodafone 5G Network in selected areas with 5G devices $40.00 Per 30 Day Renewal Go to Site	$40.00 Per 30 Day Renewal	Go to Site
#4	Kogan Mobile	Kogan Mobile Small - 365 Day Flex Plan 220GB data On the Vodafone 4G Mobile Network Deal: Get 220GB data for only $149 (incl. $30.90 off + 80GB bonus data) on the Small 365 Day Flex Plan. Offer ends 11.10.26 $149.00 Per 365 Day Renewal Go to Site	$149.00 Per 365 Day Renewal	Go to Site
#5	Kogan Mobile	Kogan Mobile Large - 365 Day Flex Plan 400GB data On the Vodafone 4G Mobile Network Deal: Get 400GB data for only $179 (incl. $96 off + 100GB bonus data) on the Large 365 Day Flex Plan. Offer ends 11.10.26. $179.00 Per 365 Day Renewal Go to Site	$179.00 Per 365 Day Renewal	Go to Site
#6	Kogan Mobile	Kogan Mobile Medium - 365 Day Flex Plan 200GB data On the Vodafone 4G Mobile Network Deal: Get 200GB data for only $190 on the Medium 365 Day Flex Plan. Offer ends 30.11.26 $190.00 Per 365 Day Renewal Go to Site	$190.00 Per 365 Day Renewal	Go to Site
#7	Kogan Mobile	Kogan Mobile Extra Large - 365 Day Flex Plan 500GB data On the Vodafone 4G Mobile Network Deal: Get 500GB data for only $300 on the Extra Large 365 Day Flex Plan. Offer ends 30.11.26 $300.00 Per 365 Day Renewal Go to Site	$300.00 Per 365 Day Renewal	Go to Site

Roaming in China and Hong Kong with amaysim

Price per day: Between $0.06 and $0.19
Price per gigabyte: Between $7.78 and $12.50

amaysim has four international roaming packs to choose from. These all have a 365-day expiry, and work in over 90 countries, including China and Hong Kong. Here are the options amaysim customers can pick from:

Pack	Price	Inclusions
Small Talk	$20	100 mins, 100 texts, no data
The Works	$25	50 mins, 30 texts, 2GB
Just Gigs	$50	No mins, no texts, 6GB
The Epic	$70	100 mins, 60 texts, 9GB

And here are amaysim's 28-day plans. You need to have an active recharge to use amaysim's roaming packs.

#1	amaysim	amaysim UNLIMITED 15GB Plan 15GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Optus 5G in selected areas with 5G devices ex. NT $30.00 Per 28 Day Renewal Link not supplied	$30.00 Per 28 Day Renewal	Link not supplied
#2	amaysim	amaysim UNLIMITED 42GB Plan 75GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Optus 5G in selected areas with 5G devices ex. NT Deal: Save $23 for first renewal & includes 33GB bonus data for first 3 renewals when you sign up by 15.11.26. Online only. T&Cs apply $35.00 Per 28 Day Renewal Link not supplied	$35.00 Per 28 Day Renewal	Link not supplied
#3	amaysim	amaysim UNLIMITED 80GB Plan 80GB data at download speeds up to 150Mbps Optus 5G in selected areas with 5G devices ex. NT Deal: Save $27 for first renewal when you sign up by 11.10.26. New services only. T&Cs apply $40.00 Per 28 Day Renewal Link not supplied	$40.00 Per 28 Day Renewal	Link not supplied
#4	amaysim	amaysim UNLIMITED 95GB Plan 95GB data at download speeds up to 200Mbps Optus 5G in selected areas with 5G devices ex. NT $45.00 Per 28 Day Renewal Link not supplied	$45.00 Per 28 Day Renewal	Link not supplied
#5	amaysim	amaysim UNLIMITED 120GB Plan 120GB data at download speeds up to 200Mbps Optus 5G in selected areas with 5G devices ex. NT Deal: Save $32 for first renewal when you sign up by 19.10.26. New online services only. T&Cs apply $50.00 Per 28 Day Renewal Link not supplied	$50.00 Per 28 Day Renewal	Link not supplied

SIM cards for travelling in China FAQs

Can you buy a China SIM card in Australia?

If you're looking to buy a China SIM in Australia, there are websites like SIM Corner or SimsDirect that will ship you a SIM to your Australian address, so you don't have to spend time looking for one when you arrive. Just be sure to double-check what these SIMs include, as they're often different to the SIMs you can get on arrival.

You can also pre-order a China SIM via UniMobile (a China Unicom reseller) and have it delivered directly to your hotel ahead of arrival.

Can I use my Australian phone in China?

Yes, you should be able to use your Australian phone in China, provided it's unlocked.

You will, however, need to get a phone plan from China Mobile or China Unicom. You should avoid China Telecom, as it uses a different network standard to Australian mobiles.

Is it cheaper to get a SIM card in China?

It all comes down to how long you're planning to stay in China. Longer trips mean a cheap China SIM card becomes better value for money. If you're only going away for a short stay, then Aussie telcos have plenty of decent options to try.

How to stay connected for free in China and Hong Kong?

If you're really looking to save money, you can hop on the free public Wi-Fi networks available in hotels, cafes, attractions and city centres throughout China's big cities. But note, that free WiFi may be harder to find in less developed areas. Using public Wi-Fi does however mean you'll be subjected to the "Great Firewall", and apps like Messenger and WhatsApp won't work without the use of a VPN. Telegram, Signal, and Viber are all blocked, for example.

If you don't want to rely on a VPN, WeChat is your best option, but you'll want to get your friends and family to also install it so you can contact them for free.

You can check out maps of available Wi-Fi through an app such as Wiman to help you connect on the go. For the free WiFi method to truly work, you'll also want to make sure your phone is in aeroplane mode to stop any accidental calls, texts or data usage that could trigger exorbitant roaming charges.

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Alex Choros

Managing Editor + Group Telco Editor | X | Instagram | Threads | LinkedIn

Alex Choros is the Managing Editor of WhistleOut Australia and an award-winning journalist. He's been writing about consumer technology for over a decade and is an expert on the Australian telco sector, to the point where he knows far too many phone and internet plans by heart. In addition to leading the WhistleOut editorial team, Alex is responsible for ruining the office Sonos with his troubled taste in music.

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