Traveling in China in 2025 means reconciling with the Great Firewall—services like Google, WhatsApp, and Facebook are blocked by default. For seamless access, finding an eSIM that doesn't require a VPN is critical. Here's how RORO eSIM, Airalo, and Holafly stack up.
According to RORO’s Trustpilot page, one user said: “I used Roro eSIM for several days while in China…the speeds were very quick…no VPN needed”. Another user highlighted, “VPN is not stable in China. RORO eSIM is a good option, good price and quite many data plan options”
Works out of the box in China, including access to Western social media. No VPN needed. Easy to install and offers transparent plans. Consideration: Unlimited plans may still impose daily high-speed caps—users should manage expectations accordingly.
A Reddit traveler described Airalo for China as only allowing access to Western apps, while vital local apps like Didi or Baidu Maps failed with “network exception errors”—making Airalo unreliable for real navigation or ordering.
However, a travel blog (Traveltomtom) shared the opposite experience: “With an Airalo eSIM it was the first time I discovered that you DO NOT NEED A VPN in China,” with apps like Instagram, Google Maps, and TikTok running smoothly.
Affordable and easy to set up.
Potential for VPN-free access according to some users. Inconsistent performance—some local services may not function without VPN. VPN may still be required depending on your Airalo eSIM’s routing and carrier.
According to a detailed review, Holafly’s China eSIM is a “cost-effective internet solution” with unlimited data and an integrated VPN—no extra setup needed .
Reddit feedback supports this: “Holafly offers unlimited data plans for China... with a built-in VPN, which helps you stay connected even with local internet restrictions” . Another traveler shared: “The data is fast and limitless” and even allowed access to blocked services like Google and Facebook—but noted issues using Alipay with small merchants due to VPN-related flags.
Unlimited data without needing separate VPN. Excellent connectivity to both Western and many local apps. Higher price point. Hotspot or specific transactions (e.g., in-person Alipay) may fail due to VPN fingerprinting.
“VPN is not stable in China. RORO eSIM is a good option, good price and quite many data plan options.”
“Airalo eSIM unreliable... couldn't use Didi or Baidu Maps.”
“Holafly is reputable... unlimited data with built-in VPN, but pricey.”
Choose RORO eSIM if you want reliable access to both Western and local services in China—without VPN hassles—and affordable flexibility. Choose Holafly if unlimited data is your top priority and you’re comfortable paying a premium for an integrated VPN solution. Use Airalo cautiously—it’s a budget-friendly option, but may not support essential Chinese services smoothly.
