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How to Set Up a VPN Before Arriving in China

Last updated: 2026-04-30

China's internet firewall blocks Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and most Western apps and websites. A VPN lets you bypass these restrictions and use the internet normally. The critical rule: set up your VPN before you arrive. Once you're in China, you can't access most VPN websites or download VPN apps from the App Store.

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Do not wait until you land in China to set up a VPN. The App Store and Google Play in China don't show most VPN apps, and VPN provider websites are blocked. Install and test your VPN before your flight.

Choosing a VPN

Not all VPNs work in China. The firewall actively blocks VPN traffic, and many services that work elsewhere fail in China. Look for VPNs that specifically advertise China compatibility and use obfuscation technology to disguise VPN traffic.

VPNs that have historically worked well in China include ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Astrill, and Surfshark — but performance varies and changes over time, especially around sensitive dates. Check recent reviews from travelers before subscribing.

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Astrill is widely considered the most reliable VPN for China, especially for business travelers. It's more expensive than consumer VPNs but has a strong track record. ExpressVPN and NordVPN are good budget alternatives.

Setting Up Your VPN

  1. 1. Subscribe to a VPN service

    Visit the VPN provider's website and subscribe to a plan. Monthly plans work fine for a short trip. Pay with your credit card — you'll need to do this before arriving in China.

  2. 2. Download the app on all your devices

    Download the VPN app on your phone, tablet, and laptop. Do this at home on your regular internet connection. iOS users: make sure you're downloading from your home country App Store, not a Chinese App Store.

  3. 3. Log in and test the connection

    Open the VPN app and log in with your account credentials. Connect to a server — try a server in Hong Kong, Japan, or Singapore for the best speeds when in China. Test that it works by visiting Google or YouTube.

  4. 4. Enable the kill switch (if available)

    In the VPN settings, enable the 'kill switch' feature if your VPN has one. This cuts your internet connection if the VPN drops, preventing accidental exposure of your traffic without VPN protection.

  5. 5. Save your login credentials offline

    Write down or save your VPN username and password somewhere accessible without internet — in your phone's notes app or on paper. If you need to reconnect in China and can't access your email, you'll need these.

Testing Before You Travel

Before your trip, test your VPN by connecting to a server and verifying that:

  • Google.com loads
  • YouTube loads
  • WhatsApp or your messaging app works through the VPN

If these work, your VPN is set up correctly.

Practical Tips

  • Multiple devices: Install the VPN on every device you're bringing. You can usually connect 5–6 devices simultaneously on one subscription.
  • Server selection: When in China, connect to servers in Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, or South Korea for the best speeds. US and European servers work but are slower.
  • Battery and data: VPNs use slightly more battery and data than normal browsing. Not a significant issue for most travelers.
  • Hotel Wi-Fi: VPNs work on hotel Wi-Fi, mobile data, and any other connection. You'll need to reconnect the VPN each time you switch networks.
  • eSIM alternative: If you buy a foreign eSIM (like Airalo), your data routes through a foreign network and bypasses the firewall without needing a VPN. This is simpler for many travelers.