There are many eSIM options out there. How do you know which is the best for international travel? Below, I’ll share my experience using an eSIM for international trips, what you should expect, and my personal favorite.
When it comes to international trips (especially solo), it’s important to stay connected. I have been to so many places around the world where I was beyond thankful that my phone was working, whether I was trying to find a tour, lost, or wanted to connect with a loved one back home. A good eSIM makes that possible!
This post contains affiliate links. All thoughts are my own!
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What to Look for in a Good eSIM
Now that you’re familiar with what an eSIM is and the benefits of using one, let’s talk about what you should look for when choosing which eSIM you want to buy for your trip!
- Coverage: First and foremost, check that the eSIM you want to purchase has coverage in the destination you are visiting! Plus, some eSIM providers partner with local companies or multiple networks, providing better coverage. You would not want to buy one then later realize it won’t work on your trip.
- Plans and pricing: Comparing different data plans and regional plans can help you make the most of your data on a trip. Some people use their phones a lot, others only want data for emergencies. Look at what plan works best for you.
- Ease of use: Choose an eSIM that is easy and straightforward to use. Additionally, check their customer service. If you’re having trouble, you want easy access to help. These two things make a huge difference!
- Device compatibility: Make sure your carrier and device are both compatible with the eSIM you are looking at.
- Good reviews: See what others are saying about the eSIM. Do they have good coverage? Reliable networks? Was their customer service helpful?
Best eSIM for International Travel (my personal favorite!)
When on a trip, you shouldn’t worry about how you’ll stay connected. It’s important to have a good eSIM that not only works reliably but is also easy to use and stress-free!
There are many options for eSIMs. My personal favorite? Sim Local! This eSIM offers coverage in over 200 countries, meaning you’re almost guaranteed coverage no matter where you’re traveling.
One of the best things about Sim Local is that they honestly check all the boxes for what to look for in an eSIM! Here are a few things that make Sim Local stand out:
- Regional plans to cover you not just in specific countries, but in 9+ different regions like Europe. This means that one eSIM plan through Sim Local can cover you in several different countries!
- They are a hassle-free eSIM that can be set up before departure in as little as 5 minutes with no need for a physical SIM or to switch numbers, and it can maintain apps like WhatsApp with no interruptions.
- Excellent pricing, Sim Local is often the cheapest option on the market.
- Multiple support pathways including phone, live chat, email, and WhatsApp.
- Find my plan feature to easily figure out what plan works for you and your budget! Plus, you can tailor plans to your needs.
- 100% refundable, meaning that if anything doesn’t go as planned, they’ll help make your day better.
- Sim Local is the only travel eSIM company that partners with the best local network providers in each country — including Lyca Mobile, Three, EE, and Orange — this ensures strong and reliable connections.
How does an eSIM work?
To use an eSIM, you’ll need an eSIM-compatible device, purchase a plan through their website or app, and then download and activate the eSIM using a QR code or manual activation codes. Below, I’ll outline the steps for using an eSIM for international travel with Sim Local.
Once your eSIM is activated, you can manage it and a second number through your phone’s settings. Below are more details on the process!
3. Activate code: Below is what you’ll need to do to active your eSIM. While you’ve activated the eSIM, this doesn’t mean it’s working on your device yet, so make sure you complete step four, too:
- Go to your phone’s settings (e.g., Cellular or Mobile Data, Connections).
- Add a new eSIM or cellular plan.
- Choose to scan the QR code or enter details manually and enter code.
4. Configure Settings: There are several custom settings to choose from. You’ll need to complete the following:
- Decide which SIM (your main SIM or the eSIM) you want to use for data, calls, and texts. Change this to your eSIM to ensure data charges go there.
- If you’re using an iPhone, you can choose which SIM you want to use for iMessage and FaceTime. Change this to your eSIM to ensure data charges go there.
- Ensure you enable data roaming in your phone or within the eSIM settings.You can rename your eSIM for easier identification in your phone’s settings.
When you return from your trip, you’ll want to change these settings back to your main SIM.
I hope this article has helped your consider the best eSIM for international travel and given you the confidence to start using eSIMs on your trips! I highly recommend Sim Local and just know you’ll love them too.
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