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.
How to Buy a SIM Card at Shanghai Airport (PVG) for Tourists: Where and Price?
This article is your ultimate guide to buying a SIM card at Shanghai Airport, covering where to buy, the cost, registration, and better eSIM alternatives.
Staying connected in Shanghai is essential for navigating, sharing moments, and keeping in touch. 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. By the end, you’ll also learn about convenient eSIM options as a great alternative to traditional SIM cards.
Highlights
- Where to Buy: Luggage Belt 28, the Arrival Hall counter (turn right), and Cheerway Easy Go near the Arrival Hall.
- Open Hours: 24/7
- Plans: From 150 RMB (21 USD) to 500 RMB (70 USD) with data and call minutes from China Mobile and China Unicom.
- Payment: Carry cash in Chinese RMB as some kiosks might not accept cards.
In this article
I. How to get a SIM Card at Shanghai Airport (PVG)?
To get a SIM card at Shanghai Airport, there are several easy and traveler-friendly options available:
- Pre-order online and pick up at the airport: Secure a SIM card before your trip and collect it at a designated counter for a good experience as soon as you land.
- Buy directly after arrival: Visit the airport’s SIM card kiosks, typically located in the arrivals hall, where you can choose from major providers like China Mobile or China Unicom.
- Opt for an eSIM (if compatible): Skip physical cards and activate an eSIM instantly through online providers. This is perfect for travelers with eSIM-ready smartphones who want a stable setup.
II. Where to buy a SIM Card at Shanghai Airport?
There are three main locations to buy a SIM card at Shanghai Airport. Here’s where you can find them:
- China Unicom Kiosk at Luggage Belt 28: Conveniently located near the luggage area, this kiosk offers prepaid SIM cards and pocket WiFi options. It’s a great spot to grab a SIM before leaving the baggage claim.
China Unicom Kiosk at Luggage Belt 28 at Shanghai Airport
- Arrival Hall Counter (Turn Right): Once you enter the Arrival Hall, turn to your right to find another counter selling SIM cards and pocket WiFi. Look for signs that indicate “SIM Card” and “Pocket WiFi.”
Arrival Hall Counter at Shanghai Airport
- Cheerway Easy Go Convenience Store: Located about 20 meters further from the Arrival Hall counter, this shop also sells tourist SIM cards. Staff members actively assist travelers with their purchases.
Cheerway Easy Go Convenience Store at Shanghai Airport
All these locations are easy to spot and are staffed to help you stay connected in Shanghai!
III. Do SIM card shops at PVG Airport open after midnight?
YES, SIM card shops at PVG Airport are open 24 hours a day. This means you can easily buy a SIM card even if your flight lands late at night or early in the morning. The counters near the luggage belt and in the arrival hall are ready to assist travelers anytime. It’s super convenient for staying connected right after you land!
IV. Shanghai Airport SIM card Price
Good to know: 1 RMB = 0.14 USD (December 2024)
The price for SIM cards at Shanghai Airport ranges from 150 RMB (21 USD) to 500 RMB (70 USD) depending on the chosen plan and provider. Below are details of SIM card prices and available plans from three main shops within the airport:
1. Luggage Belt 28
This shop offers prepaid SIM cards for China Unicom and China Telecom. Here are the plans:
- China Unicom: 20 GB data + 300 minutes for 30 days = 200 RMB – 28 USD
- China Telecom: 30 GB data + 500 minutes for 30 days = 300 RMB – 42 USD
- China Unicom: 40 GB data + 700 minutes for 30 days = 500 RMB – 70 USD
Note: There are no eSIMs available; they only sell prepaid SIM cards. Every sim card supports 5G, and hotspots are available.
2. Arrival Hall SIM Card Shop
At the Arrival Hall, prepaid SIM cards are available for China Mobile and China Unicom:
- China Mobile:
30 GB data + 300 minutes for 30 days = 230 RMB – 32.20 USD
45 GB data + 300 minutes for 30 days = 259 RMB – 36.26 USD
- China Unicom:
80 GB data + 500 minutes for 30 days = 350 RMB – 49 USD
130 GB data + 600 minutes for 60 days = 500 RMB – 70 USD
3. Cheerway Easy Go
Located in the Pudong Airport Business Hall, this shop offers SIM cards with 5G support:
- China Mobile:
20 GB data + 80 minutes for 30 days = 150 RMB – 21 USD
30 GB data + 200 minutes for 30 days = 200 RMB – 28 USD
- China Unicom:
40 GB data + 500 minutes for 30 days = 250 RMB – 35 USD
100 GB data + 700 minutes for 60 days = 500 RMB – 70 USD
V. Registration Process for Buying a SIM card at Shanghai Airport
Buying a SIM card at Shanghai Airport can be a bit of a hassle for tourists. Here’s what you need to know:
1. What You’ll Need:
- Passport: A valid passport is mandatory for purchasing a SIM card in China.
- Unlocked Phone: Ensure your device is unlocked so that a new SIM card can be accepted.
- Payment Method: While some airport vendors accept international credit/debit cards, carrying Chinese RMB in cash is advisable, as certain transactions may require it.
2. The Process:
- Locate a Vendor: You’ll find SIM card kiosks in the arrival halls after clearing customs.
- Registration: Present your passport for identity verification. Some providers might also require a completed registration form.
- Payment: Pay for your chosen plan using cash or card, depending on the vendor’s facilities.
- Activation: The staff will assist in inserting the SIM card and ensuring it’s active.
Some of you might be uncomfortable disclosing personal information, and this procedure can take a long time. Before traveling, consider getting an eSIM to avoid these procedures. eSIMs can be activated without a physical card and frequently without a passport.
Notes: Requirements for eSIM Use:
- Compatible Device: Ensure your smartphone supports eSIM functionality.
- Pre-Purchase: Buy and set up the eSIM before your trip.
- Stable Internet: An internet connection is needed for the initial setup.
VI. eSIM at Shanghai Airport – Alternative to China SIM Cards
Skip the hassle of physical SIM cards and go digital with Gigago, a trusted eSIM provider offering plans tailored for tourists. With Gigago, you can buy and activate your eSIM from anywhere worldwide – quick, easy, and stress-free!
1. How to Buy an eSIM from Gigago
- Visit Gigago and search “China” in “Where do you want to travel next?”.
- Pick the eSIM plan that fits your needs – data-only or data-and-voice options.
- Enter your email and payment details to finalize your purchase.
- Check your inbox for the QR code and setup instructions.
- Scan the QR code to activate your eSIM in seconds!
2. Why Choose Gigago?
- Just scan and go!
- No need for physical SIM cards.
- Stay online the moment you land.
- Affordable options for all travel needs.
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 Shanghai Airport
Can I use my credit card to pay for the SIM card?
Some vendors accept international credit/debit cards, but it’s advisable to carry Chinese RMB in cash, as certain transactions may require it.
Where can I purchase a SIM card at Shanghai Airport?
SIM cards are available at kiosks and shops operated by major providers like China Mobile and China Unicom in the arrival halls of both terminals.
How long does the registration and activation process take?
The process typically takes about 10 – 15 minutes, including registration and activation.
Will I have unrestricted internet access with a local SIM card?
Internet access in China is subject to the Great Firewall, which restricts access to certain websites and apps. To bypass these restrictions, consider using a VPN or purchasing an international SIM card or eSIM that allows unrestricted access.
VIII. Conclusion
I hope you find this post helpful in navigating the process of buying a SIM card at Shanghai Airport. While getting a SIM card is an option, it can be time-consuming and requires sharing personal information. For a smoother experience, consider purchasing an eSIM before your trip – it’s quick to activate and doesn’t require a passport. Stay connected effortlessly and focus on enjoying your time in Shanghai!