In the age of global connectivity, having a reliable internet connection is essential, especially when traveling. Whether it's working remotely, staying in touch with friends and family, or simply finding your way around a new city, a reliable internet connection can dramatically improve your experience.
This article will explore the world of eSIMs in detail, explaining what they are, how they work and why they are the ideal solution for modern travellers. You'll discover the benefits of eSIM flexibility, like easily accessing local and international mobile data plans, avoiding expensive roaming fees, and connecting wherever you go with ease. Furthermore, we will give you practical advice on how to make the most of this technology during your travels.
What is an eSim
An eSIM, short for “embedded Subscriber Identity Module,” is a virtual SIM card built directly into your electronic device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch. The eSIM eliminates the need to insert a physical SIM, replacing it with dedicated memory space inside.
The eSIM is essentially a digital version of the classic SIM card, but with identical functionality. Thanks to this technology, it is possible to activate a local data plan and connect to a mobile network simply via software, without having to physically replace any card.
Configuration and Activation
Once you have chosen the operator you will have to select the destination of your trip, the desired data package and its duration, as well as the date on which you want to activate it.
To set up an eSIM, you need to obtain one from your chosen operator QR code containing the virtual SIM data. This code must be scanned with the camera of the device to be configured, following the instructions. Some eSIM suppliers give the possibility to install it directly through their application.
Once you arrive at your destination, simply activate the eSIM to have a second data plan and access to the internet connection available. We recommend that you carefully read the instructions on the site where you will purchase your eSim. In our case we had to change a couple of parameters in the phone settings to avoid incurring additional costs once we reached our destination.
Pros and cons of eSIMs
The international eSIM is not always the best solution for this reason it is correct to evaluate whether purchasing it for your next trip abroad is an appropriate solution for your situation. Scroll through the pros and cons of the international eSIMs we've identified below.
Here are the advantages of purchasing an eSIM:
- Global coverage: Offers access to mobile networks virtually anywhere in the world, ensuring you stay connected anywhere. Based on the operator chosen, the international eSIM will choose which network to connect to in the foreign country, therefore the quality of the connection is the same as that of purchasing a local SIM.
- Easy operator change: You can switch from one operator to another easily, choosing the tariff plan that best suits your travel needs.
- Elimination of problems related to physical SIMs: Connectivity is safe and guaranteed directly on the device. Furthermore, it is possible to leave your national SIM in the phone, so that you can continue to receive calls from Italy if necessary.
- Simplicity. Activating an international eSIM is quick and easy. From purchase to activation you won't waste more than a few minutes. Much less, certainly, than going to a specialized shop abroad to buy a new SIM, with all the problems that could arise from it.
The disadvantages of international eSIMs, while relatively limited compared to the advantages, include the following:
- Limited availability and compatibility: Not all mobile devices support eSIM technology, and this may limit your ability to use them. Always check if your device is compatible;
- High costs for long stays: The international eSIM does not have a standard cost. By increasing the period of use, costs can become high. In these cases, purchasing a local SIM may be more convenient;
- It is not always possible to create wi-fi hotspots: Generally, international eSIM operators do not allow the use of the network to generate hotspots. Check if the operator allows this functionality.
Vendor overview
- Air it: very well known thanks to its convenient and flexible plans. It offers local, regional and global options for over 200 countries, accommodating both short breaks and long adventures. The user-friendly app and website make purchasing and managing eSIM plans easy.
- Holafly: It is making a name for itself in the eSIM market for its unlimited data plans in the US, but also offers options for Europe, Asia, Africa and Oceania. It offers competitive prices and good coverage. Its strong point is 24/7 customer service.
- Nomad: Offers a range of domestic and global plans, including unlimited data plans for some destinations, in over 110 countries. Plans are flexible and can be activated or paused based on your travel needs. The well-structured app and website make managing plans easy.
- aloSIM: aloSIM operates in over 170 countries and stands out for its connection speed and stability. It offers a wide choice of prepaid data packages to make the most of your budget. Their well-made app allows you to purchase, manage, and activate eSIM plans quickly.
- GigSky: GigSky, known for being Apple's first eSIM partner, offers global coverage in over 190 countries. It offers daily and monthly plans suitable for both short stays and longer trips. It stands out for its reliability and ability to monitor the network, redirecting your data in case of problems.
- BNESIM: Operating in over 170 countries, BNESIM offers international phone numbers, unlimited data packages and monthly subscriptions. The intuitive app simplifies the purchase and management of eSIM plans allowing for a quick connection upon arrival at your destination.
- YESIM: a Swiss provider that offers solutions similar to those presented previously. Also in this case there is wide coverage in several countries and the prices are per GB.
Differences between the various operators
While all of these providers offer eSIMs for travelers, there are some key differences between them:
- Geographic coverage: Some carriers have broader coverage than others, with plans available in more countries.
- Variety of plans: Some providers offer a wider range of plans, including unlimited data plans, national, regional and global plans.
- Flexibility: Some operators allow you to activate or suspend plans more flexibly, adapting to unpredictable travel.
- Prices: Plan costs can vary greatly between different providers, so it's important to compare rates to find the cheapest option.
- Customer care: Some operators offer more attentive and available 24/7 customer service, while others may have more limited support.
- Additional features: Some providers offer extra features such as international phone numbers, in-flight or offshore connectivity, dedicated plan management apps.
It is important to carefully evaluate your travel needs, your budget and the features offered by the different operators to choose the eSIM best suited to your needs.
SimOptions is a comparator of international prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs worldwide. With plans for over 200 local and regional destinations, SimOptions allows you to compare operators and offers to find the solution that best suits your travel needs and budget.
Alternatives to eSIMs
As an alternative to using eSIMs, there are various possibilities that can be used depending on travel needs. Below are the alternative solutions for having internet connection on holiday on your phone:
- Activate a data offer with your carrier: The main Italian telephone operators offer specific packages for using the internet abroad. These options are not always available for all countries and may not be convenient, but they are worth considering;
- Rent a portable Wi-Fi router: In many destinations, such as Japan, the rental of portable routers or 'pocket Wi-Fi' is popular. These compact devices work like modems and allow multiple devices to connect to their Wi-Fi network. They are light, take up little space and offer a secure connection, but often have a high cost;
- Buy a local SIM: Another possibility is to buy a local SIM with a data plan, generally cheaper than the offers of Italian operators. This solution allows the connection of only one device, but it is possible to use the smartphone's hotspot function to share the connection. The only inconvenience is the need to physically insert the SIM into the phone, forcing you to remove your own (temporarily giving up your number) or carry a second smartphone.
Last Updated on 1 September 2024
