No Wifi? No problem: The traveler’s guide to eSIMs

 Everything travelers need to know about using an eSIM

The reasons you'll want to stay connected on the go are pretty obvious: unless you're planning an off-the-grid Into the Wild style, you'll probably want to use your data to get directions and buy tickets. , upload photos to social media, launch a local dating app, or whatever else you like to do abroad.

However, international data and call prices can put a big strain on your travel budget, not to mention roaming charges that vary with each border you cross. This is why buying physical SIM cards has been an option for many travelers until now.

Today, we're finally entering the age of electronic SIM cards, better known as eSIMs, which store your phone's data in the cloud and can be installed and switched virtually. An eSIM is basically a SIM card that is inserted directly into your device and can be connected to any carrier that offers eSIM services. This is good news for travelers as it means you can also buy prepaid cards for any country or area you plan to visit online before your trip. And now there are a number of options available, such as the Holafly eSIM.

We've put together this handy guide with everything travelers need to know about eSIM in 2023:

Advantages of eSIM vs physical SIM cards

1. Convenience

First and foremost, the biggest advantage of an eSIM is that you don't have to go to a brick-and-mortar store or even be in the country to buy your data. Instead, you can shop online, choose a provider, and install it directly on your phone (more on that later). This means you'll be connected the moment you hit the ground, making it easier to order an Uber, find your way through a complicated tube system, or just find the nearest happy hour bar.

Then, once you're back home, you can switch back to your local eSIM with just a few clicks (don't worry, we'll share tips for that too).

2. You can use multiple eSIMs

This is also a convenient option if you frequently travel between countries. iPhones that support eSIM allow you to have multiple cards and even use Dual SIM, meaning you can have two activated at the same time.

For example, if you regularly cross borders back and forth, dual SIM activation allows you to automatically use whichever SIM card is locally connected without having to change settings. You can also buy an eSIM for an entire region, for example buying an eSIM for Europe will cover a number of different countries.

3. A future without SIM trays?

The iPhone 14 plans to remove the SIM tray in the US, meaning that iPhones will not be able to carry physical SIM cards now or in the future.

While Apple isn't the only brand for the device, of course, it won't be a surprise to see others follow suit and slim down future smartphone models even more. So cutting SIM trays could become a wider trend in the market.

4. Don't lose your data

With eSIM, there is no physical SIM card to lose or damage. So if your phone is stolen, lost or damaged while on vacation, you can still access your data via the cloud and transfer it to your new phone.

5. Sustainability

Finally, if you want to reduce plastic as much as possible, why bother with physical SIM cards?

And yes, SIM cards are very small, but it's like stopping using plastic straws: every bit counts.

Disadvantages of eSIM vs physical SIM cards

Of course, it's not all sunshine and daisies in eSIM land. There are some disadvantages to consider before using this option:

1. Compatibility

While eSIM cards are a growing trend, not all devices or mobile operators are up to speed yet. While most carriers have adopted eSIM, some do not yet or not all devices support it yet.

For example, if you're going to Spain, keep in mind that Yoigo doesn't support eSIM for the Apple Watch. However, as previously mentioned, the general trend seems to be towards eSIM, so we will see more carriers roll out plans to adopt this technology in the near future.

2. Location tracking

Because eSIM cards are installed virtually in your phone, you cannot remove them from your device like a physical SIM card. This means you also cannot avoid the possibility of being tracked by mobile operators/governments. If this is a concern for you in the country you are traveling to, you may want to avoid this option.

How to check your phone's eSIM compatibility

Before making any decision, you must first check if your phone is compatible with eSIM. Follow these steps:

Check your phone's specifications or manual to see if it supports eSIM.

Check if your phone has an eSIM tray or an eSIM chip inserted.

Check if your phone's operating system supports eSIM technology. For example, iPhones running iOS 12.1 or later support eSIM.

Check with your carrier to see if they offer eSIM service and if your phone is compatible.

Or simply check out this list of eSIM-enabled phones, which is regularly updated with all eSIM-compatible phones and devices.

One thing to keep in mind is that just like with physical SIM cards, your phone also needs to be unlocked to use an eSIM. If you bought your device directly from the manufacturer, chances are it will be unlocked. But if you bought it from a carrier, it doesn't have to be.

If you have iOS 14 or later, here's how to check if it's unlocked:

1. Go to Settings

2. Click on "General"

3. Go to the "About" section.

4. Go to "Carrier Lock" or "Network Provider Lock". If you see "No SIM restrictions", your iPhone is unlocked. If not, then it most likely means that your phone is tied to a specific carrier.

If you don't have an iPhone, try inserting a SIM card and see if it works. This will tell you if your phone is locked. Last but not least, call your provider and they will tell you if your phone is locked.