How to have internet while traveling? The best eSIMs.
No matter which country you’re visiting, you often need the same services over and over again just in different languages, colors, and flavors. Getting to your hostel, hotel, Airbnb, or guesthouse can be a smooth ride or a mini adventure, depending on how you approach it. The easiest way to navigate? Having internet access to order an Uber, check Google Maps, or use Google Translate because all these apps have one thing in common: they need internet connection.
In this article, we’ll explore the best options for staying connected while traveling abroad.
Local SIM Card
The cheapest and most reliable option would always be to buy a local sim card in the airport or the closest store in the airport, bus or train station, but this option can be inconvenient if you arrive in the middle of the night and want to be prepared to navigate, translate or ask for a taxi.
| Pros 💰 | Cons ⚠️ |
|---|---|
| Usually cheapest option 📉 | May require ID/registration 🆔 |
| Local rates 📍 | Can be tricky to set up without local language 🗣️ |
| Full access to calls + data 📲 | Not always available at the airport ✈️ |
eSIM
An eSIM is basically a digital SIM card that’s built right into your phone, so there’s no need to swap out any plastic chips. Instead, you activate it through software usually just by scanning a QR code or installing an app and you’re instantly connected.
Nowadays there are different providers of Esims depending on what you are looking for. Here a list of the best options that have worked for us.
- Airalo is best for price conscious travelers who want wide reach and simplicity, they also have regional and global packages and a rewards program called Airmoney.
- Holafly is great for unlimited usage and strong support great for heavy data users, the downside is that it is expensive compared to other options
- Nomad offers a clean, fast, trial-ready experience with reliable coverage.
- Maya gives flexible, reusable options and excellent coverage even at sea.
| Pros 🚀 | Cons 🚧 |
|---|---|
| Setup is instant | Not all phones support eSIMs 📱 |
| You can switch between plans or keep your home number active without juggling tiny cards 🔄 | Most travel plans are data-only 📶 |
| Prices can be higher and coverage not as good as local SIMs 🗺️ | |
| Some plans can’t be reused if deleted 🗑️ |
Our top tip: Discover other eSIM options on this website
At a digital nomad meetup in Buenos Aires, someone mentioned eSIMDB and it has been a game changer. It’s an independent directory for travel eSIMs, where you can search by country, region or global plans. It pulls a database of 160 000 options over 100 companies and you are able to compare side by side price, data amount, validity and coverage. They even list promo codes and discounts.
Final thoughts
Being connected is no longer optional. Even if you’re not a digital nomad, you’ll need internet access during those first hours for tasks like checking banking apps, paying for food, or arranging transportation. With all the options available today, staying connected isn’t a luxury it’s essential.
