Is eSIM a Good Choice for International Travel?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of the traditional SIM card. Unlike the physical SIM card that you insert into your phone, an eSIM is already embedded into your device’s motherboard and can be programmed remotely by downloading different network profiles.

This means you don’t need to visit a store to purchase a SIM card or wait for one to be shipped. Instead, you can scan a QR code or use an app from an eSIM provider and instantly activate a mobile plan—whether you’re in your home country or halfway across the world.

Most newer smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches now support eSIM. Apple, Google, Samsung, and other major manufacturers have embraced this technology across many models.

One of the biggest benefits of eSIM for travelers is how easy it is to get connected. Instead of standing in line at an airport kiosk or hunting for a SIM card shop in a foreign city, you can buy and activate a data plan from your phone—before you even leave your home country.

Many eSIM providers allow you to purchase and download a plan instantly, sometimes within minutes. This is incredibly helpful if you land in a new country late at night or during a holiday when stores are closed.

With eSIM, there’s no need to remove your existing SIM card, which means your primary phone number and contacts stay safe and active. Most smartphones with eSIM support dual SIM functionality, so you can use your home SIM for voice or text (if needed) and your travel eSIM for mobile data.

This is especially beneficial for:

• Business travelers who still need to receive calls on their home number.
• WhatsApp users who want to keep their account linked to their original number.
• Travelers who want to avoid losing or damaging their primary SIM.

International roaming fees can be extremely expensive. eSIMs provide a cost-effective alternative by offering local or global data plans that are prepaid and transparent.

You can choose from:

• Local eSIMs (cheapest, country-specific).
• Regional eSIMs (like Europe, Asia, North America).
• Global eSIMs (covering 80+ countries for frequent flyers).

This allows you to choose a plan that fits your needs and budget, without surprise fees or long-term contracts.

If you’re traveling to multiple countries on a single trip, switching SIM cards for each country is a hassle. Some eSIM providers offer regional or multi-country plans that work across several destinations.

For example:

• A European eSIM plan may work across 30+ EU countries.
• A global eSIM can provide coverage in over 100 countries without switching plans.

This is perfect for backpackers, digital nomads, cruise passengers, or international business travelers.

eSIMs are inherently more secure than traditional SIM cards. There’s no physical chip to lose, damage, or steal. Plus, they reduce the plastic waste associated with disposable SIM cards and packaging.

Because they are remotely managed, many eSIMs also allow you to:

• Pause or resume your plan easily.
• Switch between plans in seconds.
• Keep backups of your profiles in certain apps.

Although eSIM technology is rapidly expanding, not all devices support it yet. Many newer smartphones do, but budget models or older phones may not have eSIM capability.

Make sure to:

• Check your device’s specifications for eSIM support.
• Ensure that your device is unlocked, as some carrier-locked phones don’t allow eSIM activation with other networks.

Most international eSIM plans are data-only, meaning they don’t include traditional voice calls or SMS. This could be a drawback if you rely on regular phone calls or need to receive text messages for banking or 2FA (two-factor authentication).

However, voice communication over apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, Zoom, Skype, Telegram, or Google Voice works flawlessly over mobile data, making this issue minimal for most travelers.

Many eSIM providers operate 100% online, which can mean limited live support or slower response times if you run into issues. Always:

• Read reviews before choosing a provider.
• Choose companies with reliable customer service or apps with in-app support and troubleshooting.