SIM cards can be one of the most frustrating things about traveling abroad. To use the local network freely, you need to buy a new local SIM card, open up your device, and carefully install it.
Worst of all, physical SIM cards are only useful in one country. If your trip takes you across another border—you’ll have to buy yet another card. And another one. At this point, using your smartphone can feel like a real burden.
But travelers rejoice! There is a new way to enjoy your smartphone abroad without hassle, frustration, or enormous costs. It’s time to ditch your physical SIM card and embrace eSIMs.
The advantages of using eSIMs vs traditional SIM cards
Below are the key reasons why using an eSIM for your next trip abroad makes sense:
eSIMs are the ultimate convenience
Opening up your phone to change physical SIM cards is now a thing of the past. With eSIMs, you can change networks all within an app. This saves you enormous time, as you don’t have to visit stores or contact providers for every change you want.
Best of all, setting up an eSIM plan is a dream. All you need to do is check whether your smartphone is compatible. Research a provider and download their app to purchase a data plan. All that’s left after that is to activate it before your trip!
eSIMs provide reliable coverage
When choosing a physical SIM card, travelers might not know which networks are the best in their area. They could pick one with bad service, connectivity, or limited data allowances.
An eSIM removes all the hassle and research for you. By choosing a reputable provider, you can enjoy reliable connectivity from all the best networks in your area nationwide.
Let’s say you’re traveling through the United States. Taking out a USA eSIM package allows you to enjoy reliable connectivity throughout the country. Even when crossing states, you’ll connect to the best local networks in your area.
eSIMs help boost your physical and cybersecurity
Changing physical SIM cards introduces a lot of risk to your smartphone. You could lose or damage your SIM card while making the change, or worse, you could even damage your device.
Because an eSIM is already embedded within a smartphone app, you won’t ever lose it when making a network switch. Additionally, an eSIM has advanced encryption and security features, so there’s a reduced risk of tampering.
eSIMs are cost-effective
Physical SIM cards are expensive to buy. They are often sold at premium rates because tourists have few alternatives. If you opt for roaming packages, you could face excessive charges and strict terms and conditions.
eSIMs help you control your smartphone bill with ease. As data is charged at local rates, plans start at an affordable rate. Moreover, you know what data you’re getting because they are prepaid. You can always top up your plans when and if you need them.
eSIMs are more environmentally friendly
Another reason more travelers are dropping physical SIM cards is their environmental impact. As they only work in one country, these single-use plastic cards are often disposed of after each trip.
Research has shown that over 4.5 million SIM cards are made yearly, contributing to over 18k tons of plastic waste. eSIMs, on the other hand, are operated through an app, so there’s no extra plastic packaging to consider.
Farewell to physical SIMs
The traditional physical SIM card is becoming obsolete. It’s too expensive, unreliable, and difficult to install. The only reason it’s lasted so long is that there were no other alternatives.
Thankfully, eSIMs have arrived. With an eSIM, you can easily change networks worldwide, eliminating connectivity issues when going overseas. You’ll not only enjoy better service but also have total control over your mobile data bill. What’s not to love about that?