This guide will help you explore everything about purchasing a SIM card at Shanghai Airport, from finding the right store to understanding the costs and registration process.
How to Buy a SIM Card at Guangzhou Airport (CAN) for Tourists: Where and Price?
Discover everything you need to know about getting a SIM card at Guangzhou Airport, including where to buy it, prices, and better alternatives.
Traveling to Guangzhou has never been easier than this. This guide will help you navigate the process of buying a SIM card at Guangzhou Airport, covering where to find SIM card shops, the costs involved, and the registration process. By the end, you’ll also explore a convenient alternative: eSIM options for China.
Highlights
- Locations: China Mobile is near Gate 6 in Terminal 1, China Unicom is near Gate 7 in Terminal 1, and China Telecom is near Gate 1 in Terminal 2.
- Opening Hours: 24/7 for late-night or early-morning arrivals.
- Payment Options: Cash (RMB) is recommended as not all kiosks accept international cards.
In this article
I. How to get a SIM Card at Guangzhou Airport (CAN)?
To get a SIM card at Guangzhou Airport, there are several easy ways:
- Order online before your trip and collect at the airport: Buy in advance and pick it up when you arrive for instant connectivity.
- Buy upon arrival: Telecom shops in the arrivals area of both terminals sell and activate SIM cards quickly.
- Buy an eSIM (if your phone supports it): Purchase and activate online instantly without needing a physical card.
Each option is convenient and ensures you stay connected during your trip.
II. Where to buy a SIM Card at Guangzhou Airport?
At Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, you have several convenient spots to purchase a SIM card:
- China Mobile Store: Located in Terminal 1’s Arrival Hall near Gate 6, this store operates 24/7 and offers various prepaid SIM card options.
- China Unicom Store: Situated in Terminal 1’s Arrival Hall near Gate 7, this store is open 24/7 and offers a range of SIM cards suitable for tourists.
- China Telecom Store: Found in Terminal 2’s Arrival Hall near Gate 1, this store operates around the clock, offering different SIM card plans.
These stores are conveniently located in the arrival halls of both terminals, making it easy to get connected as soon as you land. Remember to bring your passport for registration when purchasing a SIM card.
III. Do SIM card shops at CAN Airport open after midnight?
YES, most SIM card shops at Guangzhou Airport (CAN) stay open 24/7, so you can buy a SIM card even after midnight. This is especially convenient for travelers arriving late at night or during odd hours.
In the arrival halls, stores like China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom are ready to assist you anytime. Just remember to bring your passport for registration when purchasing your SIM card.
IV. Guangzhou Airport SIM card Price
Good to know: 1 RMB = 0.14 USD (December 2024)
Here are the SIM card plans available at Guangzhou Airport, offered by the three main carriers:
Carrier | Plan Name | Data | Validity | Price (RMB) | Price (USD) |
China Mobile | Daily Data Plan | 1 GB/day | 30 days | 18 | 2.52 |
30-Day Unlimited Plan | 30 GB high-speed | 30 days | 128 | 17.92 | |
60-Day Unlimited Plan | 40 GB high-speed | 60 days | 238 | 33.32 | |
China Unicom | 1-Month Data-Only SIM | 4 GB | 30 days | 30 | 4.2 |
7-Day Tourist SIM | 2 GB | 7 days | 58 | 8.12 | |
Hong Kong 1-Month SIM | 8 GB | 30 days | 160 | 22.4 | |
China Telecom | General Data Plan | 20 GB | 30 days | 98 | 13.72 |
Note: Packages and availability may vary slightly, so confirm with the airport shops.
V. Registration Process for Buying a SIM card at Guangzhou Airport
Getting a SIM card at Guangzhou Airport can be a bit challenging, but knowing the steps makes it easier.
1. What You’ll Need
- Passport: Required for identity verification.
- Unlocked Phone: Ensure your phone accepts new SIM cards.
- Payment: Carry Chinese RMB in cash, as not all vendors accept international cards.
2. The Process
After clearing customs, find SIM card kiosks in the arrival hall. Provide your passport for registration, pay for your chosen plan, and let the staff assist with activating your SIM card. The process is straightforward but can take time during busy hours.
Do you find the process wasting time? An eSIM is a possible option that eliminates the need for physical SIM cards or on-site registration.
What You’ll Need for an eSIM:
- eSIM-Compatible Device: Ensure your smartphone supports eSIMs.
- Pre-Purchase: Buy and set up the eSIM before your trip.
- Internet: A stable connection is needed for activation.
eSIMs are fast, convenient, and allow you to skip long registration lines, making them perfect for travelers who value privacy and efficiency.
VI. eSIM at Guangzhou Airport – Alternative to China SIM Cards
Say goodbye to the hassle of physical SIM cards and enjoy stable connectivity with Gigago, a trusted eSIM provider for travelers. With Gigago, you can purchase and activate your eSIM anytime, anywhere in just a few clicks – making it fast, easy, and stress-free!
1. How to Buy an eSIM from Gigago
- Visit Gigago’s website and search for “China” in the “Where do you want to travel next?” section.
- Select a plan that suits your needs – choose from data-only or data-and-voice options.
- Provide your email and payment details to complete the purchase.
- Check your email for the QR code and setup instructions.
- Scan the QR code to activate your eSIM instantly and start using it!
2. Why Choose Gigago?
It works in 200+ countries, so you don’t need to worry about roaming charges or carrying a physical SIM card. You can buy and activate your eSIM in just a few minutes, no matter where you are. Whether you’re on a trip to explore, work, or relax, Gigago helps you stay online without any hassle. It’s fast, simple, and perfect for travelers!
For China, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 500MB/day for 3 days with $4.90 . What is great about Gigago’s China eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $4.90 – $128.00 .
Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you are or how long your trip to China is; with Gigago, you always have an option.
VII. FAQs about SIM Card at Guangzhou Airport
Can I buy a SIM card at Guangzhou Airport upon arrival?
Yes, you can purchase SIM cards from kiosks in the arrival halls of both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.
Can I use my foreign phone with a Chinese SIM card?
Yes, as long as your phone is unlocked and compatible with Chinese network frequencies. China Unicom is often recommended for better compatibility with foreign phones.
Is there free Wi-Fi at Guangzhou Airport?
Yes, Guangzhou Airport offers free Wi-Fi for 300 minutes per session. Connect to the “AIRPORT-WIFI-FREE” network.
Are there alternatives to buying a SIM card at Guangzhou airport?
Yes, you can consider purchasing an eSIM online before your trip, which can be activated upon arrival without the need for a physical SIM card.
VIII. Conclusion
I hope you find this post helpful in understanding how to buy a SIM card at Guangzhou Airport and exploring the best options for staying connected during your trip. Whether you buy a SIM card upon arrival or go for the convenience of an eSIM, you’ll have plenty of choices to suit your travel needs. Remember, being prepared means a smoother and more enjoyable journey in China!