If you’re planning a trip to China, whether for business or tourism, there’s one thing you should sort out before you even pack your suitcase: your internet access. While China is an incredible place to visit, many popular websites and apps — including Google, Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, and even some news outlets — are blocked due to the country’s strict internet regulations, often called the “Great Firewall.” You need VPNs for China Travel to bypass it.
To stay connected with the rest of the world while you’re there, you’ll need to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network). But it’s not as simple as just downloading one when you arrive — most websites of VPNs for China trips are also blocked in China. That’s why it’s essential to set things up before you go.
Why You Need a VPN in China
A VPN helps you bypass regional internet restrictions by routing your connection through servers located outside China. It encrypts your data, keeping your browsing private and allowing you to access sites that would otherwise be unavailable. For travelers, it’s the most effective way to maintain access to your usual apps and services.
More importantly, using a VPN is almost always cheaper than paying for international data roaming. If you’re coming from Europe or North America, roaming fees can add up quickly. VPNs are generally billed monthly or yearly and are far more budget-friendly.
How to Install a VPN Before Traveling
- Choose a VPN that works in China (we’ve listed a few below).
- Download and install it on all your devices before departure. That includes your phone, laptop, and tablet.
- Set up and test the connection while you’re still outside China, so you know it’s working.
- Turn on automatic connection if the app has the option, so it reconnects instantly when needed.
- Keep a copy of the installer on a USB stick or cloud storage, just in case you need to reinstall it during your stay.
VPNs That Are Still Working in China (As of 2025)
Not all VPNs are created equal — many free ones are blocked or too slow to be useful. The following services have a reputation for being reliable in China, and they’re all cheaper than roaming with your home mobile carrier:
1. Clash for Windows / ClashX (Mac) + Custom Configuration
- Price: Free to use; pay for premium nodes via providers like V2Ray or Shadowsocks resellers.
- Pros: Highly customizable and stable if you know how to configure it.
- Cons: Requires some technical knowledge.
- Tip: Look for pre-built subscription configs online and test them before your trip.
2. Surfshark
- Price: Around $2.50/month (with long-term plan).
- Pros: Affordable, unlimited devices, works reliably in China.
- Cons: Connection speeds vary depending on the time of day.
- Website: https://surfshark.com
3. ExpressVPN
- Price: $6.67/month (with a 12-month plan).
- Pros: One of the most consistent and user-friendly VPNs for China.
- Cons: Pricier than others, but often offers better performance.
- Website: https://www.expressvpn.com
Extra Tips
- Choose a server location which is near China: Most VPNs allow you choose server location from a list of coutries and regions. Just pick one that is close to your physical location in China like Japn, Taiwan or Singapore. This means you can get higher speed and lower latency.
- Use obfuscation or stealth mode: Some VPNs offer special connection modes that hide VPN traffic from Chinese filters. Enable this if your connection is unstable.
- Avoid free VPNs: Most free VPNs don’t work in China, and some may even log your data or install malware.
- Keep a backup plan: Download more than one VPN app in case your main one gets blocked or fails.
Final Thoughts
Setting up a VPN isn’t just a techie thing — it’s a necessity for anyone who wants to stay connected in China. The key is preparation. Download your tools before you leave, test them out, and you’ll be ready to post that Great Wall selfie without a hitch.