As mobile devices become an increasingly integral part of our daily lives, the need for reliable and efficient communication has never been greater. In recent years, eSIM technology has emerged as an innovative solution to traditional SIM cards. In this article, I will take a deep dive into the world of eSIMs and provide a comprehensive guide on how to use them in roaming.
Disclaimer: Some links in this article contain affiliate links. If you click on the link and purchase any service, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.
I couldn’t be happier when this technology was launched. I always struggled with changing the SIM at the airport. Not only that, but I always worried that I would lose my original one.
What is eSIM?
eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a small electronic chip built directly into a mobile device. Traditional SIM cards are small plastic cards you must insert into your phone. However, eSIMs are virtual and can be downloaded and activated over the air.
One of the most significant advantages of this technology is the ability to switch between mobile operators without needing to change SIM cards physically. With eSIMs, you can easily download and activate a new plan from an operator (carrier) of your choice.
What is travel eSIM?
It is a local eSIM that travellers use while travelling. Traditional physical SIM cards require travellers to purchase a local SIM card or pay expensive roaming fees. The disadvantage of physical SIM is that most phones support only one SIM. It was always a hassle to find a store that sells them at the airport. It has happened to me many time that either there was no store or it was closed. On top of it, you need a small pin to open the SIM card slot. How many of you actually carry it?
Unlike physical SIM cards, travel eSIMs allow users to buy and activate a temporary mobile plan directly on their device. There is no need to swap the SIM cards or carry a pin.
Where and how to buy eSIM?
Buying an eSIM varies depending on your device and mobile operator (carrier). Some mobile operators (carriers) offer plan activation directly through their app or website, while others require you to visit a store or contact customer support.
Before buying a new plan, ensure your device is eSIM compatible. Once you have confirmed that your device supports eSIMs, you can purchase one from a mobile operator (carrier) or an aggregator. Another thing to consider is what services you will need during your travel. Some companies offer data only.
Where to buy them
Airalo
Airalo provides global data connectivity for all travellers. They offer data packages from 200+ countries/regions, enabling you to be connected anywhere in the world the second you land. This article has a detailed guide on creating an account and buying an eSIM plan.
Airalo Discount Code
If you use my Airalo code you can get $3 off (link to the discount here) or 15% discount (link to the discount here) on your first eSIM.
If you already have an existing account you can get 10% discount on eSIMs US$10+ using this link.
Airalo has apps where you can buy new plans or track the usage of your existing plans. Below are the links where you can download them:
For Google Play click here.
For Apple Store click here.
Keepgo
Keepgo is a global telecom company for the eSIM age. They offer mobile (cellular) data-only connectivity worldwide to consumers and Connectivity as a Service (CaaS) for business customers. They have integration with multiple telco operators worldwide. Thus offer their customers access to 400+ cellular networks in 100+ countries.
This article has a detailed guide on creating an account and buying an eSIM plan.
Visit their web page here and see if you like their data plans. If you use my referral link, you will get a FREE 3GB coupon for eSIM or the regular Lifetime line. I use Pisces, which gives me access to all European networks while travelling around Europe.
HolaFly
Holafly eSIM is an international eSIM shop for more than 160 destinations. It’s simple to set up and provides a 4G connection worldwide. You’ll connect to the internet just by scanning a QR code and never have to pay roaming fees again.
Use my link to get a discount on your first purchase.
This article has a detailed guide on creating an account and buying an eSIM plan.
Nomad
Nomad offer SMS a data plans for SIM and eSIM for more than 165 countries worldwide. They offer local and regional data plans, while SMS plans are for Canada and US only.
Visit their web page here and check their data packages. If you use my referral link and code LEOS92MM, you will get US$3 off your first eSIM purchase.
OneSimCard
OneSimCard is a division of Belmont Telecom, Inc., a licensed U.S. interexchange carrier (IXC) providing telecommunications services since 1994. They offer two eSIM products: OneSimCard eSIM World and OneSimCard eSIM Asiana. This article has a detailed guide on creating an account and buying an eSIM plan.
This article has a detailed guide on creating an account and buying an eSIM plan.
How to use eSIM
Using an eSIM is easy and straightforward. Here are the general steps to activate it on your device:
- Check if your phone (or other devices) supports eSIM.
- Select the company that offers what you need for the trip.
- Follow the instruction on their web page. Most of the time, all you need to do is to scan a QR code.
- Activate it once you land at your destination.
- Once your plan is activated, you can use your device as usual.
- You can switch between eSIM plans anytime in the phone menu.
eSIM technology offers a convenient and flexible solution for mobile communication. With the ability to easily switch between carriers and plans, eSIMs give users greater control over their mobile experience.
Don’t be scared of new technologies! Switching data plans by clicking on your phone’s display is more convenient than swapping the physical SIM cards!
How to choose eSIM
Read this article to learn how to choose a suitable eSIM for your next trip abroad!
