…

Having reliable mobile data when you travel is a must these days. It is helpful not only for finding things to do or the right bus route, but for communicating in an emergency and finding your accommodation if you get lost.

While I think many travelers spend too much time on their phones, the fact of the matter is that modern travel requires mobile data.

In the past, that meant paying exorbitant roaming fees to your phone provider or finding and buying physical SIM cards at the airport. Whenever I went on a long trip I used to spend a fortune on mobile data. He sucked.

Fortunately, today, there is a cheaper and more convenient solution: eSIMs.

I recently started using eSIM and it is a game changer.

So, in this post, I’ll break down exactly what an eSIM is and share my favorite eSIM companies so you can stay connected on your next trip — without breaking the bank.

What is an eSIM?

A SIM card is a small memory card that you insert into your smartphone to make calls and use mobile data. It has unique identifiers that ensure that when people call you, the call goes to your device (and not someone else’s). You usually get one from your phone provider when you sign your contract.

eSIM is the digital version of this.

Instead of a Physical memory card, you instead install software on your smartphone that mimics the same functions as a physical card. Most smartphones only have one port for a physical SIM card, so the advantage of using an eSIM is that you can have multiple eSIMs on one device.

For example, if you are from Germany and visiting the United States, you must physically remove your German SIM card upon arrival and install a physical US SIM card if you want to avoid paying excessive roaming fees. But once you swap the SIM card, you won’t be able to receive calls or texts to your German phone number unless you physically remove the US SIM card and put the German SIM card back in your phone.

This is a tedious process if you need to access multiple numbers during your trip. Hence the convenience of eSIM. They make it very easy to visit multiple countries without having to juggle SIM cards every year. And since they let you set up before you arrive, you can get mobile data the minute you touch down.

Why use eSIM?

Convenience – Not only can you set up your eSIM from the comfort of home, but you can also do it before you leave so it’s ready when you arrive. (If you forget to do so, you can buy an eSIM and be connected in seconds.) Plus, you can extend your plans or even upgrade them on the fly, which is easier (and faster) than extending a plan. ) is Physical SIM card.

Price – eSIMs are very cheap now, with plans starting at just $4-5 USD. It’s a fraction of what you’d pay for a roaming plan!

Additional benefits – Some companies (eg Jetpack) offers additional benefits beyond just the eSIM data package. This can include things like lounge access for delayed flights and a free VPN trial.

Customer service – If you buy a SIM card on arrival at the airport, you can’t really go back to that airport kiosk if you have a problem because you’ll have traveled further. With an eSIM, you’ll have access to 24/7 online support for questions and troubleshooting.

Multiple use – While some eSIMs will expire, it is possible to get an eSIM that you can use again and again, saving you time and energy.

The best eSIM for travelers

Jetpack
Jetpack is a travel eSIM company based in Singapore. They offer affordable mobile data coverage in over 150 locations worldwide. I like that they offer regional bundles so you can visit more than one country with the same eSIM and still get reliable coverage.

What I especially like, is that it’s a one-time installation. Many other eSIMs require a new installation for each new eSIM you buy. Not so with Jetpack, which makes it a great choice for travelers who want a hassle-free eSIM (especially travelers who are less tech-savvy).

However Jetpac does not only offer eSIM. They actually have some solid travel benefits, which in my mind, make them the best eSIM for travelers. This includes free airport lounge access if your flight is delayed and ExpressVPN’s free trail (which can keep your mobile data safe and secure while abroad).

Jetpack at a glance:

• Affordable prices starting at just $1 USD
• Free lounge access for flight delays
• Free ExpressVPN trial
• Offers exclusive discounts on airport lounges and fast tracks, more than 40% off
• The data pack is valid for one year from purchase
• Easy, one-time installation
• Hot spot capabilities

Click here to know more about Jetpac eSIM!

Holafly
Holafly There are numerous plans, many with unlimited data, all connected to reliable networks so you’re covered no matter where you travel. They offer 160 location plans, and the ability to access unlimited data is a huge plus in my book. As such, they are best for heavy data users. Plus, you can hotspot your friends up to 1 GB of data per day.

Holfly at a glance:

• 5-90 day plans
• Unlimited data starts at $19 USD
• Easy installation process
• 24/7 customer support
• 1 GB data sharing per day (hot spotting)

Erlo
Erlo One of the largest eSIM providers in the world, with plans covering over 200 countries/territories. They make it very easy to set up your eSIM with an attractive website and reliable customer service. Apart from country-specific eSIMs, they also have regional data packs as well as global packs that cover more than 135 countries (perfect for long-term nomads).

Erlo at a glance:

• Country, region and global data packs
• 200+ countries/territories covered
• Plans starting at just $4.50 USD
• Easy to set up
• 24/7 customer support

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about eSIM:

Does the eSIM support phone calls and SMS messages or only data?
Some eSIMs do, though most eSIMs currently only offer data. If you need to be able to make local or international calls on a data-only eSIM, there are a number of ways to do this (such as WiFi calling, Google Voice or Skype).

How do I activate eSIM?
You can activate the eSIM by scanning the QR code provided by your carrier or by entering the activation details in your phone’s settings. All eSIM providers will have detailed instructions on how to activate their eSIM and all good carriers should have 24/7 customer support if needed.

Which devices support eSIM?
Most new (post 2018) smartphones support eSIM. Most providers have a list of phone models that support eSIM, so be sure to check before buying one (especially if you have an older phone).

Can I use both an eSIM and a physical SIM on my device?
Many (though not all) devices offer dual-SIM functionality, allowing you to use both an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time. Be sure to check international roaming charges with your home provider before keeping your physical SIM active abroad. If you want to make sure it doesn’t automatically connect when abroad (usually incurring high roaming charges), make sure to turn off roaming for your physical SIM.

Can I switch between eSIM profiles?
Yes, you can store multiple eSIM profiles on your device and switch between them. Some new phone models allow two eSIMs to be activated simultaneously, while others only allow one to be activated at a time.

How secure is eSIM?
eSIMs are considered more secure than physical SIM cards because they are embedded in the device and are difficult to tamper with.

Can I transfer the eSIM to a new device?
Some carriers allow you to transfer the eSIM to a new device, but you may need to request a new activation code from your carrier. Some carriers also only let you transfer eSIMs once, so be sure to check before you do if you need to.

***

From booking activities to calling an Uber using Google Maps, having mobile data makes traveling easier (and safer). Fortunately, accessing mobile data has never been easier. eSIMs are cheap, easy to use, and can have amazing added benefits (eg of the jetpack Jetpass).

I use an eSIM whenever I travel and I encourage you to do the same. It’s the best way to stay connected and get the most out of your travels — no matter where you’re going!