If you’re traveling abroad this summer, you’re probably considering the best way to stay connected while overseas. Fortunately, an eSIM makes it easy to transition seamlessly from one country to the next — no device or SIM card switching required.
An eSIM is a digital SIM card that links your phone to a carrier’s cellular network, allowing you to make calls, send texts, and use cellular data. eSIMs are purchased, installed, and activated remotely, so you can add a different plan to your existing eSIM-compatible device without visiting a carrier store or purchasing a physical SIM card.
Three reasons why you need an eSIM
Limited coverage
Some carriers have limited (if any) coverage for areas outside your home country — and if you don’t plan ahead, you may pay a premium for international roaming, leading to an unpleasant surprise on your next bill. While you may be able to add a travel pass to your existing contract in advance, an eSIM is an easy alternative for accessing an affordable, travel-friendly data plan.
It's customizable to your itinerary
With an eSIM provider, you can customize your plan for your itinerary, including country-specific plans or those covering larger regions. If you’re traveling around the European Union, for example, you don’t need to change SIM cards each time you cross a border. You can choose contract lengths ranging from a few days to a month or longer, with options for extended or global coverage if you frequently travel overseas.
It saves you time at the airport
Another major advantage of an eSIM for international travel is that you can install it in advance so you’re covered the minute you arrive. If you rely on a physical SIM card, you have to find a vendor locally, leaving you disconnected for a period of time. Plus, you’ll have to keep track of the chip if you want to use it in the future. Physical SIM cards are at risk of being lost or stolen. (Note that some smartphones actually lack SIM card slots altogether, so you’d need to purchase a second device to use a traditional card.)
Bottom line
Because eSIM-compatible devices typically allow you to have multiple SIMs active at once, you can use your eSIM for affordable data while still receiving calls and texts to your main number while abroad. When you return home, you can easily switch back to your primary SIM and network with a simple update to your phone’s settings.
eSIMs have made it a lot easier to travel, and for a variety of reasons. Just be sure to research which carrier makes the most sense for you when you travel abroad.
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