Why You Need An eSIM For Your Next Trip And How It Will Change The Way You Travel

NDTV

29-04-2025

Remember the days of fumbling with tiny SIM cards at the airport, praying you didn't lose that microscopic tool to pop open your phone tray? Good news: Those days are officially numbered. If you're planning your next trip, whether it's a quick European city break or a long-haul adventure, there's a smarter, much easier way to stay connected — and it's called an esim. So, what exactly is an eSIM? Short for "embedded SIM", an eSIM is a small chip built directly into your smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch. It works just like a traditional SIM card — letting your device connect to a mobile network — but you don't have to insert anything physically. Instead, you can instantly download mobile plans, switch providers without swapping cards, and manage multiple numbers from your settings. It's a game changer, especially for travel.
All You Need To Know About Using An eSIM For Your Next Trip:
Why eSIMs Make Travelling So Much Better
First off, no more queuing at tiny airport kiosks trying to buy a local SIM with patchy Wi-Fi and a dubious language barrier. With an eSIM, you can sort out your mobile data before you leave home. Services like Airalo, Holafly, and Nomad let you buy local, regional, or global plans online. You scan a QR code or download a profile directly to your device, and boom — you're connected the moment you land.
Another massive win? No more worrying about losing your primary SIM card. Travellers used to juggle their original SIMs, tucking them into wallets (or worse, the bottoms of rucksacks) only to panic later when they couldn't find them. With an eSIM, your original number stays untouched, and you simply activate a temporary travel plan alongside it. Dual SIM functionality means you can keep using your regular WhatsApp, banking apps, and texts while enjoying local rates abroad.
The Tech You Need To Know
Before you get too excited, check if your device supports eSIMs. Most newer smartphones do: think iPhone XR and later, Google Pixel 3 and onwards, and Samsung Galaxy S20 and above. Many new tablets and wearables, like the latest iPads and Apple Watches, are also eSIM-ready. It's worth noting that not all mobile networks fully support eSIM technology yet, especially in more remote parts of the world. But coverage is growing fast. According to GSMA, the association representing mobile operators, eSIM adoption is set to triple over the next few years. Translation: If it's not available where you're heading today, it probably will be soon.
How To Set Up An eSIM
Setting up an eSIM is refreshingly simple. After purchasing a travel data plan, you'll usually receive a QR code via email. Go into your phone's settings, select "Add Mobile Plan", scan the code, and follow a few on-screen instructions. That's it. In some cases, you might download an app (like Airalo's) to manage your plan directly. Pro tip: Set it up before you fly. You'll avoid stress and any roaming charges that might kick in as you search for a cafe with Wi-Fi in a new country.
Also Read: 5 Airline Stopover Programmes That Offer You (Almost) Free Mini-Vacations
Why It's Totally Worth It
Not only does using an eSIM save you money — no overpriced airport SIMs or outrageous roaming charges — but it also gives you serious peace of mind. Imagine landing in Tokyo, Paris, or Cape Town and instantly hailing an Uber, finding your Airbnb, or checking in with family without breaking a sweat. Plus, most eSIM providers offer transparent, pay-as-you-go rates, so you're not tied into sneaky contracts or hidden fees. You buy what you need, when you need it. For frequent travellers, digital nomads, and even casual holidaymakers, eSIMs are quickly becoming the no-brainer choice. They're flexible, secure, and ridiculously convenient — everything modern travel should be.
Popular Network Providers For International Travel
1. Airalo: 200+ countries including USA, UK, France, Japan, Thailand, Australia, India, Mexico
2. Holafly: 160+ countries including USA, Canada, UK, Europe (regional), Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Brazil
3. Saily: 150+ countries including USA, UK, Germany, Australia, UAE, Turkey, Singapore
4. Ubigi: 190+ countries including USA, UK, France, Italy, China, UAE, South Africa, Japan
5. Nomad: 165+ countries including USA, Canada, UK, Germany, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia
6. Jetpac: 70+ countries including USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, UK, Europe
7. Instabridge: 100+ countries including USA, India, Brazil, Philippines, South Africa, UK
8. Flexiroam: 150+ countries including USA, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, UAE, UK, Australia
9. aloSIM: 130+ countries including USA, Mexico, France, Italy, Spain, Thailand, Japan
10. GigSky: 190+ countries including USA, UK, Europe (regional), China, UAE, Australia
11. Matrix: 130+ countries including USA, UK, UAE, Thailand, Singapore, Canada, Germany
12. ETravelSim: 200+ countries including USA, India, UK, Europe (regional), Australia, UAE, Japan