How to Buy Prepaid SIM Cards and Roaming Data for Travelling in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is arguably one of the best cities in the world in terms of its connectivity, not just in terms of its easy-to-use and widely spread public transport network, but also for getting online and keeping in touch with everyone through phone. Switching on and tuning in is easy and simple. Still, if you need help, you can check out our guide on buying and using prepaid SIM cards and how to get Wi-Fi and roaming data in Hong Kong.

Public Wi-Fi

Hong Kong is well known for its extensive free Wi-Fi services. There are various Wi-Fi.HK hotspots located throughout the city’s popular locations such as tourist attractions, shopping malls, parks and gardens, museums, sports venues, tourist visitor centres, government buildings, ferry terminals, and cooked food centres.

These hotspots offer free or time-constrained wireless internet connection to all users. Some places also offer timed Wi-Fi services in exchange for patronage, so you will be able to receive the connection details on receipts or by asking the staff. For easy access, download the Wi-Fi.HK app to find a list of hotspot locations. Once you have located a hotspot, connect to the internet with the Wi-Fi.HK SSID.

Additionally, popular ports such as the airport and MTR stations offer free Wi-Fi services. You can connect to the ‘MTR Free Wi-Fi’ network in the concourse and platforms of every MTR station. Each mobile device can enjoy up to 15 minutes of free Wi-Fi service, with a maximum of five sessions per day.

Where to Buy SIM Cards

In Hong Kong, you can purchase a SIM card directly from the flagship stores of mobile service providers, but a more convenient choice is buying from resellers like 7-Eleven and Circle K. Generally, SIM card packages in Hong Kong can start from an average price point of HK$50.

Voice calls are charged by the nearest minute, with rates varying depending on the location and whether you're calling a fixed or mobile line. SMS messages are charged per text, with prices differing based on whether they're in or out of the same network or sent to another country. To save money, many people opt to use chat apps that can send messages and make calls through data.

The four mobile operators in Hong Kong are CSL, China Mobile, Three, and SmarTone. Each provide prepaid SIM card packages with varying data quotas, prices, and roaming allowances. Click on the link to each of the SIM card providers in Hong Kong above to find out more on the types of pre-paid SIM cards you can get in Hong Kong.

Data Roaming

Data plans are essential for social media users, but most people won't need more than 2G for a couple of days or even a month if they're not heavy users. Streaming content should be saved for your hotel Wi-Fi, as most plans provide 3GB of service over a few days.

When planning for your trip, take the time to understand the services provided by your SIM card. With a little preparation, you can stay connected without breaking the bank!

VoLTE & VoWifi Calling

Hong Kong offers both 4G Voice over LTE (otherwise referred to as HD Voice or VoLTE calling) and Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi). This means that if you opt to make a phone call in Hong Kong using your Wi-Fi to catch a signal, the call quality won’t drop to 2G or 3G.

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