Local SIM, Travel eSIM or Roaming?
In today’s hyperconnected world, staying connected while on the go is more important than ever. Whether you’re a frequent traveler, a digital nomad, or simply someone who relies heavily on your mobile device, having reliable mobile connectivity is crucial. When it comes to accessing roaming data and making calls abroad, there are three main options to consider: local SIM cards, travel eSIM ‘s, and roaming.
Getting a local SIM card
When traveling abroad, one popular option for staying connected is to purchase a local SIM card. A local SIM card is a physical card that you can buy from a local mobile network operator in the country you are visiting. By inserting this SIM card into your smartphone, you gain access to local mobile networks, allowing you to make calls, send texts, and access the internet using local mobile data plans. It’s like having a temporary local phone number that allows you to stay connected with ease.
Advantages of a local SIM
One of the biggest advantages of using a local SIM card is the cost savings, since getting a local SIM is typically the most cost-effective option, with local networks offering connectivity at lower prices.
Additionally, one of the strongest reasons for getting a local SIM is so that you can have a local phone number, which can be useful for local contacts and businesses during your stay. Having a local number can make it easier for you to communicate with locals, whether it’s for work or personal reasons.
Disadvantages of a local SIM
On the downside, purchasing a local SIM card requires finding a physical store and can be a hassle, especially if you’re short on time. While many countries have SIM card kiosks or shops conveniently located at airports or popular tourist areas, making it easier for travelers to get a local SIM card, some destinations require you to make a trip down to the stores in the city center to obtain a SIM card.
While there is also the option of online ordering and delivery services for SIM cards, allowing you to have a local SIM ready before you even arrive at your destination, this would often require some advanced planning to make sure you receive the SIM card on time.
Getting a local SIM often also comes with the need to go through identity verification, especially if you are getting a SIM that comes with a local phone number. Local network operators will usually have to make a copy of your identification documents before they can issue you a local SIM.
In addition, if your device doesn’t allow you to have more than one physical SIM card in your device, you will have to replace your primary SIM with the local SIM. Aside from the fact that you might lose your primary SIM card, this could also prove to be troublesome if you needed your home number to complete some transactions (like receiving an OTP) while on your travels.
What about local eSIMs?
With the advancement in technology and a growing take-up rate of eSIMs (read more to find out what an eSIM is), some carriers are also starting to offer that as an option for travelers. While this might reduce the hassle of carrying around a physical SIM, it should also be noted that the local eSIM might not always come with a local phone number. If you need an option that comes with a local phone number so that you can make calls, you will usually still need to head down to a physical counter to get your identity verified before the eSIM can be issued to you.
It is important to note that eSIM coverage might not be as extensive as traditional SIM cards. While eSIMs are becoming more widely supported, not all mobile operators offer eSIM functionality yet, especially not for tourists. And for those that do, eSIM support might not be available for all devices. It is a good idea to check the availability of eSIM services and the device support of the local telco operators at your destination.
International Data Roaming
There is also the good old option of roaming. When you roam, your mobile device connects to a foreign network, allowing you to access voice and data services. While roaming can be convenient, it’s important to note that it usually comes at a much higher cost. Your home network provider charges you for the usage, often at higher rates compared to the other options available.
Advantages of roaming
Roaming provides simplicity and familiarity. You can continue using your existing phone number without needing to change SIM cards or worry about losing connectivity. This can be especially beneficial if you have important contacts who need to reach you on your usual number or if you rely heavily on certain apps or services that are tied to your home SIM card. Roaming allows you to seamlessly transition between countries without any disruptions in your communication.
Local SIMs and travel eSIM plans typically also come with either a fixed volume of data or a fixed duration. On the other hand, if you were to go with the option of roaming, you would typically not be constrained by these factors. Instead, you will be charged based on your actual data usage, so if this flexibility is important to you, then roaming might be an option to consider. (But different operators offer different roaming packages and charging models, so be sure to check with your carrier on any limitations and exclusions of their roaming offerings.)
Disadvantages of roaming
However, the downside is the exorbitant costs associated with roaming. International roaming charges can quickly add up, resulting in hefty phone bills upon returning home. It’s important to be aware of the roaming rates of your mobile operator and to consider whether the convenience of roaming outweighs the potential financial burden. Some mobile operators offer roaming packages or add-ons that can help reduce costs, so it’s worth exploring these options if you frequently travel and rely on roaming.
Getting a travel eSIM
An option for mobile connectivity that is increasingly popular is to get a travel eSIM. Unlike a physical SIM card, an eSIM is a digital SIM card that is built into your device. This technology eliminates the need for physically swapping SIM cards, making it more convenient for frequent travelers who like to switch between different networks.
Activating an eSIM is a simple process. You can remotely activate it by scanning a QR code or using a mobile app provided by your network operator. This flexibility allows you to easily switch between different mobile plans or networks without the hassle of physically changing SIM cards. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, having an eSIM can offer you the freedom to choose the best mobile plan for your needs, even while on the go.
Advantages of travel eSIMs
eSIMs offer the convenience of not having to physically swap SIM cards. Instead of dealing with the hassle of finding a store and changing SIM cards, you can simply switch between different networks and plans instantly with just a few taps on your device. Travel eSIMs also often have data plans at near-local prices; while it might be slightly more expensive than getting a SIM or eSIM from a local network provider, it is often a much cheaper option than if you were to rely on international roaming.
Providers of travel eSIMs like Nomad also have extensive coverage that covers many destinations worldwide and is a good option, especially in destinations where the local networks do not offer eSIM solutions for travelers.
Furthermore, the advantage of travel eSIM over a local eSIM is magnified when you are traveling to different countries. A local SIM (or eSIM) usually only works in the home country, whereas providers of travel eSIMs usually offer regional or multi-country packages that allow you to remain connected as you hop across countries—all using a single eSIM.
Disadvantages of travel eSIMs Local SIM Travel eSIM or Roaming
One of the main drawbacks of getting a travel eSIM is that it usually does not come with a local phone number. While travel eSIMs are convenient and a good answer to your data and connectivity needs, if you expect to be making calls during your trip, then perhaps a travel eSIM is not the best option. That said, even without a local number, there are still a few different ways that you could make calls.
Get a Nomad Travel eSIM Local SIM Travel eSIM or Roaming
Nomad offers data plans in over 165 countries, and you can be sure to find one that is suitable for your travel needs. And if you will be traveling across multiple countries, there are also regional plans available, so you can stay seamlessly connected as you hop between countries. Data plans are available for as little as €1.50 per GB.
So, should I get a local SIM (or eSIM), a travel eSIM, or just roam?
TL;DR: It depends on a few factors, but ultimately, it comes down to what is important to you.
Get a local SIM if… Local SIM Travel eSIM or Roaming
- You need a local phone number
- You are very cost-sensitive
- You don’t mind the hassle of having to change out SIM cards or queue at the shops at the counter
- You don’t need to have your primary line active during your trip
- Your device is not eSIM-compatible — check if your device is eSIM-compatible
Get a travel eSIM if…
- You value the convenience of being able to quickly switch lines while also keeping your primary line active
- You don’t need a local phone number
- You are cost-sensitive
- You are traveling to multiple countries
- Your device doesn’t have support for physical SIMs and local carriers at your destination don’t have eSIM support for travelers
Just roam if… Local SIM Travel eSIM or Roaming
- Cost is not a concern to you
- You value convenience more than anything else
- You need to keep your primary line active while you travel and your device doesn’t support multiple SIMs (or eSIMs)
