Tips to Choose the Best VPN for Travel in China

China is known for its strict Internet usage and the restriction of various social media platforms. The country has Internet regulations and a strict and heavily monitored firewall known as the Great Firewall of China (GFW).

Due to its heavy geo-restriction system, a VPN has become necessary to remove geo-blocks and completely protect personal data and information.

This article will provide essential factors and tips for choosing the best VPN for China. But first, let’s get started with what VPNs truly are.

Understanding the Need for a VPN in China

China’s Internet censorship, through the GFW, restricts access to many popular websites and services such as Google, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and various news outlets.

Additionally, certain apps and services may also be limited or monitored.

A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, passes your data through a “safety tunnel” and encrypts your Internet traffic. It then routes the data through servers in other countries, making it appear that you are in a different location altogether.

It allows you to bypass these restrictions by conquering the GFW and accessing the global Internet freely and securely.

Here are some key factors to consider the best VPN for travel in China:
1. Bypassing the Great Firewall: Not all VPNs can bypass the GFW. The Chinese government actively works to detect and block VPN traffic, so choosing a VPN provider known for consistently bypassing these restrictions is crucial. Look for VPNs with obfuscation technology or stealth servers designed to disguise VPN traffic as regular HTTPS traffic.

2. Speed and Performance: China’s Internet infrastructure can be challenging, and a VPN can sometimes slow down your connection.

Choose VPNs with high-speed servers, especially in nearby regions like the Singapore server. A VPN with multiple server options in these locations can ensure a faster and more reliable connection.

3. Server Network and Locations: A broad server network gives you more options to connect to various countries. This helps with speed and provides more choices for accessing different types of content.

Each VPN server contains a different IP address, which makes it easier to bypass any geo-restriction and allows you to access content from any location.

Check if the VPN offers servers in regions close to China and popular destinations worldwide.

4. Security and Privacy: Security is paramount, especially in a country with extensive Internet surveillance.

Ensure the VPN uses robust encryption standards. The AES-256 military-grade encryption is the most preferred as it is literally unbreakable by any third party.

You need to choose a VPN with a strict no-logs policy and additional security features like a Kill Switch and DNS leak protection. These features ensure your data remains private and secure, even if the VPN connection drops.

5. Device Compatibility: While traveling, you’ll likely use multiple devices, such as your phone and laptop, and you might also use the TV at your residence.

Choose a VPN that supports various devices and operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and possibly even Linux.

Some VPNs also offer browser extensions and support for routers.

6. Customer Support: Having full-time and reliable customer support is crucial, especially if you come across VPN-related issues in China.

VPN providers that offer 24/7 customer support through various channels like live chat, email, or phone are the best to choose. This ensures you can get help whenever you need it.

Recommended VPNs for China

Based on the above factors, here are three VPNs known for their effectiveness in China:

Symlex VPN:

Symlex VPN stands out as an excellent choice for use in China due to its robust features and reliability:

• Speed: Symlex VPN offers high-speed servers, especially in nearby regions like Singapore or Hong Kong. Symlex also has dedicated High Speed servers which are segmented so users can find them instantly.There are dedicated servers for gaming, streaming, and ad-blocking.This ensures that users can maintain a fast and stable Internet connection while using the VPN in China.

• Server Network: With a wide network of servers worldwide, Symlex VPN provides plenty of options for users to connect to different regions, enhancing both speed and accessibility to various types of content.You can choose a server where the content you are looking for is available.
• Security: Symlex VPN uses military-grade AES-256 encryption to secure your data.Additionally, it has a strict no-logs policy, a Kill Switch, split tunneling, and DNS leak protection to safeguard your privacy.
• Compatibility: Symlex VPN supports various devices and operating systems, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. This versatility makes it easy to use across multiple devices.
• Support: Symlex VPN offers 24/7 customer support through WhatsApp, email, live chat and even Facebook messenger, ensuring that users can get assistance whenever needed.Symlex VPN’s strong security features, reliable performance, and excellent bypassing capabilities make it a top choice for travelers to China.

2. ExpressVPN:

Express VPN is another good VPN to use in China. Here are some of the features to note before considering:

• Speed: Offers high-speed servers, particularly in nearby regions.
• Server Network: Extensive server network in 94 countries, including Japan, Hong Kong, etc.
• Security: Allows 128 or 256-bit AES encryption, no-logs policy, kill switch, and DNS leak protection.
• Compatibility: Supports all major devices and operating systems.
• Support: 24/7 live chat support.

3. Astrill VPN:

Another good VPN working in China is the Astrill VPN. Things to consider before purchasing are given below:

• Speed: High-speed servers are optimized for China
• Server Network: Supports over 300+ servers in 50+ countries.
• Security: Equipped with good encryption and various security features.
• Compatibility: Supports major devices and operating systems.
• Support: 24/7 customer support is available for users.

Tips for Using a VPN in China

1. Install Before Visiting: Download and set up your VPN before entering China, as VPN websites are often blocked, making it difficult to download the software once you are there.However, if you are a resident looking for sources to download, you can visit the Symlex VPN website and download the apk file or any other file that suits your device.

2. Test Multiple Servers: Since there are a range of servers and many users, it is possible to have a slow network, buffer, or, worst case scenario- blocked. But do not worry; connect to another if one server is slow or blocked.

3. Update VPN App Regularly: Ensure your VPN app is always up to date, as VPN providers regularly update their apps to counteract new blocking methods employed by the GFW.

4. Enable Security Features: To enhance your privacy and security, activate all security features provided by your VPN, such as the kill switch and DNS leak protection.

Conclusion

We hope this article provided you with tips to choose the best VPN for China.

As a user, selecting the right VPN for travel in China involves carefully considering its ability to bypass the Great Firewall, speed, server network, security features, device compatibility, and customer support.

Symlex VPN is a highly reliable option for travelers to China due to its advanced obfuscation technology, high-speed servers, and robust security features.

By preparing in advance and choosing a reliable VPN, you can ensure a secure and unrestricted Internet experience while traveling in China.