Does roam beyond add-on in China allow you to bypass Great Firewall restrictions?

Forum|Forum|8 months ago
January 8, 2026
3 replies
150 views

Hello, I’m planning a trip to China at the end of January, and looking at purchasing the Roam Beyond add-on. However I’ve read that state restrictions and firewalls prevent access to most of the apps and services we use in the UK, like WhatsApp, Google and most social media.

Will I be able to access the above services in China by using the ID Roam Beyond Add-on? Or, should I set up a VPN to use while I am away, and will this work in conjunction with / instead of the add-on?

Thanks!

Best answer by MZone

If using a U.K. SIM to roam abroad the data is routed back to the U.K. so in theory it should work. I can’t confirm this though but I know of others that say it has worked using other U.K. networks.

Alternatively get a local SIM and use a VPN.

MZoneAnswer

Platinum  Contributor

If using a U.K. SIM to roam abroad the data is routed back to the U.K. so in theory it should work. I can’t confirm this though but I know of others that say it has worked using other U.K. networks.

Alternatively get a local SIM and use a VPN.

I have no affiliation whatsoever with iD Mobile or any subsidiary companies. Comments posted are entirely of my own opinion. Did my comment help answer your question? If so, don't forget to mark the response as the Most Helpful Answer.

S

Stuartocr

New Contributor

Hey. Did this work? Thanks

Gemma M

iD Mobile Employee

Hi @Stuartocr,

Thanks for your question.

Yes, you can use the Roam Beyond add-on for data while you're in China. However, it's important to note that the add-on doesn't bypass China's internet restrictions.

Many services commonly used in the UK, including WhatsApp, Google services (such as Gmail, Google Maps and Google Search), Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter) and some other social media platforms, may still be inaccessible due to local internet restrictions.

If you'd like to continue using these services while you're away, many travellers choose to set up a VPN before arriving in China. If the VPN is configured before you travel and is compatible with local regulations and restrictions, it can often be used alongside your Roam Beyond add-on. The add-on simply provides your mobile data connection, it doesn't replace or interfere with a VPN.

As VPN availability and effectiveness in China can change over time, we'd recommend researching a suitable provider and setting it up before you leave the UK, as downloading or configuring one once you're in China can be difficult.

We hope you have a fantastic trip, and if you were referring to any other country, feel free to let us know, we’re happy to help!

Regards,

Gemma M

The iD Mobile Social Media Team

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