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First we had traveling without mobile phones and the internet, which was enough of an adventure as it was. I remember reading maps, including getting lost. I also remember asking strangers where the best restaurant was, or the local zoo. During the past decades, however, mobile telephony and internet data have fully integrated into the travel industry. These days you can book tickets, check the weather, find a hotel, and order a meal with your thumb. Twenty years ago, you would probably see thumbs in case a hitchhiker needed a ride. Both have their charm. The downside of having all these apps and possibilities while traveling abroad, is that you do need an internet connection in order to use al the goodies. Without it, you travel not only in distance, but also back in time.

During the early days of roaming, which is using your data plan abroad, surfing on the internet to find your next meal was extremely expensive. I remember having to pay roaming fees in Europe. These could easily mount up to hundreds of euros during a summer holiday abroad. Since 2017, this has changed, so normally you do not pay for roaming anymore while traveling Europe. Many people traveling would find a local cigar shop, a kiosk or a bookstore that sold SIM cards. Prepaid usually worked well, apart from the installation in Italian.

Today we have a new form of data through the use of eSIMs. In this blog I will show you what an eSIM is, how you can use them during travel, and how the use of e-sims can save you enough money for an extra fine dinner at your destination. Whether you are traveling for months on end or you are just out on a city trip for the weekend, an eSIM can be a valuable asset in your travel toolbox.

What is an eSIM?

As opposed to the traditional plastic SIM cards, eSIMS are not physical. There is no card to put in your phone. Not all mobile devices are ready for eSIMS. Most new phones, however, carry the option to use eSIMs in order to connect to a mobile network. The preinstalled hardware on your telephone can work with most eSIM providers. A piece of software is downloaded onto your phone which connects to the eSIM hardware on your mobile device. The benefit, compared to traditional SIM cards, is that you can download multiple eSIMs on your mobile phone, which is very easy when traveling through multiple countries. The 'e' in eSIM stands for 'embedded'.

How to use an eSIM during travel?

When you are traveling – especially as a digital nomad, backpacker, or long-term traveler – an eSIM can come in handy, because it is very easy to switch between data carriers as you travel from one place to the next. That is the main advantage of using an eSIM. You can also use multiple profiles; for example, if you travel and work at the same time, it is easy to create a profile for work and one for private communication. The use of an eSIM compared to your own data carrier from home can be a wise financial decision because there are not roaming costs.

Downsides of working with an eSIM.

When the app is down, so is your connection. That is not much different than the traditional SIM card, as your physical SIM provider can have a network problem too. People do say it is harder to troubleshoot. When you take out a physical SIM card, you can just swap it with another one. If your eSIM provider is down, you have to use an app to troubleshoot. Not all providers support SMS or phone calls with an eSIM. Check before you travel whether your bundle includes calls and SMS.

Is it cheaper than using my normal provider?

Most likely! Especially when traveling in countries where you would normally use 'roaming.' The benefit of an eSIM is that you can use local networks without the need to switch your SIM card. This will greatly reduce the cost of mobile date while traveling abroad.
At home, it is best to stick with a local carrier, as these prices can still be lower than the average eSIM prices. Since most people these days work with wi-fi, I would not recommend using an eSIM permanently. Consider it for travel. As always - DYOR! (DoYourOwnResearch).

Do all phones offer eSIM?

The technology has been here for a few years, and most modern devices have the option for eSIM. Check the specific technical details of your device to see if eSIM technology is already available.

Where can I get one?

Is your device ready? Freelyran has collected a number of eSIM offers so you will never miss another blog while traveling abroad! There are many providers out there these days, Freelyran.com has partnered up with a number of reliable companies in order to give you a few options while traveling, simply click the brand title to find their website.

Saily : Affordable eSIM data for international travel.

Airalo : Buy eSIMs for affordable, flexible coverage around the world – 200+ locations.

Yesim : eSIM mobile data plans for travel and business.

Drimsim : Affordable internet in 190 countries. No monthly fees or hidden payments.

Gigsky : Stop paying for roaming. Stay connected anywhere.

I sincerely wish you a lot of joy while traveling, if that is what you are up to during this summer! Keep the Freelyran blog close, more travel related posts will show up throughout the summer to support nomads and travelers. Much love!

🦁 Freelyran.com