Should I Use a SIM Card or eSIM When Traveling?
With the introduction of eSIM, many people are scratching their heads, wondering if they should move to it. This is especially the case for travelers who are used to changing SIM cards when they travel. Of course, there are pros and cons to eSIM, but what about during travel? eSIM vs SIM for travel
Should you make the switch to eSIM or stick to regular SIM? We’ll get to that, but first, let’s talk about what SIM and eSIM actually are.
What’s a SIM Card versus an eSIM? eSIM vs SIM for travel
A SIM card is a physical card that stores your mobile phone number and other information that identifies you as a subscriber to a particular mobile network. An eSIM is a virtual SIM card that is embedded in your mobile device and can be used to activate a mobile service from any carrier that supports eSIM.
The main difference between a SIM card and an eSIM is that a SIM card is a physical card that you insert into your phone, while an eSIM is a virtual card that is stored on your phone. Another difference is that an eSIM can be used with any carrier that supports eSIM, while a SIM card can only be used with the carrier that issued it.
The Pros and Cons of SIM Cards in comparison to eSIM for Travel
The debate about whether to use a SIM card or an eSIM when traveling is one that has been going on for a while. There are pros and cons to both, so it really depends on your individual needs and preferences as to which is best for you.
Here, we take a look at the pros and cons of each option to help you make a decision.                  Â
SIM Cards
Pro
With a SIM Card, You Can Usually Get a Better Data Deal
When you buy a local SIM card, you are usually able to get a much better data deal than you would if you used your home SIM card. This is because local carriers often have special deals and offers for tourists.
Control Over Spending
Using a SIM card, especially a prepaid one, allows you to have a clear overview of your spending. You can easily track your usage and avoid unexpected charges, providing a sense of control over your communication expenses while traveling.
Con:
It Can Be a Hassle to Get a Local SIM Card
Depending on where you are traveling, it can be a bit of a hassle to get a local SIM card and swap it with your existing SIM. This is because you often have to go to a local store, which can be difficult if you don’t speak the language. You also have to make sure that your phone is unlocked, which may not be the case if you have bought it on a contract.
Availability and Accessibility Issues
In some countries, buying a local SIM card can be challenging due to regulatory restrictions or limited availability. Additionally, the process might require local identification or a lengthy registration process, which could be inconvenient for travelers.
eSIM
Pro
An eSIM Is Much More Convenient than a SIM Card
An eSIM is much more convenient than a SIM card because you don’t have to go to a store to get it. You can simply add it to your phone via the Settings app. This is especially handy if you are traveling to multiple countries and don’t want to have to keep getting new SIM cards.
Environmentally Friendly
eSIMs are a more sustainable option as they eliminate the need for plastic SIM cards, contributing to less electronic waste. This makes eSIMs an environmentally friendly choice for the eco-conscious traveler.
Con
Not All Phones Support eSIM
The main downside of eSIM is that not all phones support it. At the moment, it is on all recent phones from major manufacturers: Apple, Samsung, Google Pixel etc. This means that if you want to use an eSIM, you need to confirm that your device is eSIM-enabled i.e. has the eSIM feature.
Difficult to Switch Devices
With an eSIM, switching between devices can be more challenging. Unlike a physical SIM card that you can simply move from one device to another, an eSIM requires you to go through the setup process each time you want to use it with a different device.
Final Thoughts about eSIM vs SIM for travel
So, which is more convenient for travel?
It really depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re looking for convenience and flexibility, an eSIM may be a better option. If you’re trying to save money and have enough time to do that, a SIM card may be a better option. Either way, eSIMs are still new, but they are gradually being implemented. Sooner or later, eSIMs will take over, and we’ll all be enjoying the benefits it offers.
