Which eSim Card Is Best For International Travel?

Introduction.

Travelling abroad is always an exciting experience. But, one of the biggest challenges for many travellers is staying connected without racking up huge phone bills.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a month-long adventure, having reliable internet and phone service is essential. That’s where eSIM cards come in.

If you’re unfamiliar with eSIMs, you might be wondering what they are, how they work, and whether they’re worth the switch. Well, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.

In this post, I’ll take you through everything you need to know about eSIMs for international travel, including which ones are best for your trips, how to choose one, and some frequently asked questions along the way.

By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of how eSIMs can make your travels easier and cheaper.

What is an eSIM?

First things first: what’s an eSIM? In the simplest terms, an eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card that allows you to switch between networks without needing to insert a physical SIM card into your phone. It’s a technology that’s been growing in popularity, and for good reason.

eSIMs work with most modern smartphones, including the latest iPhones, Google Pixels, and some Samsung models.

Instead of swapping out a physical SIM card every time you travel, you can simply download an eSIM profile from your carrier or a third-party provider. It’s a hassle-free way to manage mobile service while you’re abroad.

Why is an eSIM Good for International Travel?

When you travel internationally, using your regular SIM card can lead to sky-high roaming fees, especially if you’re not in a region covered by your carrier’s plans.

Traditional roaming charges can make a short trip much more expensive than it needs to be.

Here’s where eSIM cards shine. With an eSIM, you can avoid those extra charges by choosing a local carrier or an international plan that offers affordable rates.

You can switch between carriers and network providers with ease, often without needing to leave your hotel room.

Plus, you can do it all digitally, which is much more convenient than dealing with a bunch of physical SIM cards.

Benefits of Using an eSIM for International Travel

• No Physical SIM Cards to Lose: You don’t need to worry about losing your physical SIM card or carrying extra ones for different countries. Your eSIM is stored digitally on your phone.
• Cost-Effective: Instead of paying expensive roaming charges from your home carrier, you can often get a better deal from local or international eSIM providers.
• Convenience: Switching between mobile networks without having to remove a physical SIM card is incredibly easy. You can manage all of this directly from your phone’s settings.
• Multiple Profiles: Some eSIM cards allow you to have multiple profiles, making it easy to manage both a local number and an international one without juggling multiple SIM cards.
• Global Coverage: Many eSIM providers offer coverage in a large number of countries. This is especially useful if you’re hopping between different countries and want a solution that works in each place.

Top eSIM Providers for International Travel

So now that you know the basics of eSIMs and their advantages, let’s look at some of the best options for international travelers. I’ve rounded up a few top choices that will keep you connected no matter where you go.

1. Airalo.

Airalo is one of the most well-known eSIM providers. It offers coverage in over 190 countries, and it has a wide range of plans depending on your destination. Airalo offers both regional and global eSIMs, making it perfect for both short trips and longer stays.

The pricing is competitive, and the setup process is fairly simple. Their global eSIM, “Aurora,” gives you access to multiple countries with one plan.

2. Nomad.

Nomad is another great option for international travellers. Like Airalo, they provide global and regional eSIMs with coverage in dozens of countries.

Nomad’s eSIMs are known for being reliable, and their data plans are flexible, allowing you to choose how much data you need depending on your trip. You can also top up your data if you run out during your travels.

3. Truphone.

Truphone offers a range of eSIM options for international travel, focusing on both data and voice services.

It’s a popular choice for people who want to keep both their regular phone number and a local number while travelling.

Truphone has good coverage in over 100 countries and offers a variety of plans to suit different needs. It’s a solid choice for those who need both voice and data while travelling.

4. GigSky.

GigSky is another eSIM provider that focuses on data services. With coverage in more than 190 countries, GigSky is great if you need a reliable data connection while travelling abroad.

Their plans are flexible and can be used on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops.

One of the unique features of GigSky is that it offers plans for travellers who need both short-term and long-term coverage.

5. Ubigi.

Ubigi is a lesser-known but reliable eSIM provider. It’s particularly popular in Europe, but it also offers global plans.

Ubigi has affordable pricing and is easy to set up, making it a great choice for those travelling in and out of Europe.

They offer both pay-as-you-go plans and data bundles, so you can select what works best for your travel needs.

How Do I Set Up an eSIM for International Travel?

Setting up an eSIM for your trip is simple. Here’s a basic overview of the process:

1. Check if Your Phone Supports eSIM: Make sure your device supports eSIM technology. Most recent models of iPhones (XS and later), Google Pixels (3 and later), and some Samsung models (S20 and beyond) support eSIM.
2. Choose a Provider: Research the best eSIM provider for your travel needs. Choose one that offers good coverage in the countries you’ll be visiting and compare their plans.
3. Download the eSIM Profile: Once you’ve selected a provider, you’ll usually need to download the eSIM profile directly to your phone. This can often be done through an app or by scanning a QR code.
4. Activate the eSIM: After downloading the profile, follow the activation instructions. Typically, you’ll need to go into your phone’s settings to activate the eSIM and select it as your default network.
5. Enjoy Your Trip: That’s it! You should be all set to use your new eSIM for calling, texting, and browsing the internet while abroad.

FAQs

1. Can I use an eSIM in any country?

Not all countries or carriers support eSIMs, so it’s essential to check coverage before you travel. However, most eSIM providers offer extensive international coverage, especially in popular tourist destinations.

2. Do I need to cancel my home carrier’s plan when using an eSIM?

No, you don’t need to cancel your home carrier’s plan. You can have both your home SIM and eSIM active on your phone at the same time. Just switch between them as needed.

3. How much does an eSIM cost?

The cost varies depending on the provider and the plan you choose. Generally, international eSIM plans are more affordable than traditional roaming, but prices can range from a few dollars to over $100, depending on your data needs and the countries you’re visiting.

4. Can I use an eSIM for voice calls?

Yes, some eSIM providers offer voice call services in addition to data, though this can vary by provider. Make sure to check if voice services are included in the plan you choose.

Conclusion

Choosing the right eSIM for international travel can save you both time and money.  By using an eSIM, you avoid expensive roaming charges, get reliable service, and have the flexibility to switch between networks with ease.

With so many options available, it’s all about finding the one that suits your travel needs best. So, which eSIM will you choose for your next international trip?