In brief
- Roaming plans are the easiest option but can cost more on longer trips.
- Travel eSIMs are quick to set up if your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM.
- Local SIM cards can be good value for long stays but may require ID registration.
- Keep your home number reachable if you rely on it for texts and two-factor codes.
Getting lost without maps, or missing a message from your host, is no way to start a trip. There are three main ways to stay connected abroad, and the best one depends on your phone, how long you’re traveling and how much data you use.
The three options compared
| Roaming plan | Travel eSIM | Local SIM | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Setup | Usually automatic or a quick opt-in | Install by QR code or app | Buy in a shop or kiosk on arrival |
| Phone needs | Works with your normal plan | Unlocked, eSIM-capable phone | Unlocked phone with a SIM slot |
| Home number | Stays active | Can stay active alongside | A physical swap may disconnect it |
| Cost | Often higher on long trips | Varies with the data amount | Often good value for long stays |
| Best for | Short trips and simplicity | Most trips | Long stays and heavy data use |
Roaming plans
- Check your carrier’s international options before you leave.
- Some plans sell daily passes; others include data in certain countries.
- The easiest choice for short trips, or if you need your usual number all the time.
Travel eSIMs
- Bought online and installed before you fly, usually activated on arrival.
- Your phone must be unlocked and support eSIM.
- Data-only plans are common, and you can usually keep your home line active for texts.
Try this: Install the eSIM at home over Wi-Fi, but follow the provider’s instructions on when to switch it on, so the validity period doesn’t start too early.
Local SIM cards
- Sold at airports, phone shops and some convenience stores.
- Some countries require ID or registration to buy a SIM.
- Good value for long stays, especially if you need a local number.
Caution: Swapping out your home SIM can mean missing two-factor authentication texts from your bank. Set up an authenticator app or keep your home line active before you travel.
Before you leave home
- Ask your carrier to unlock your phone if it isn’t already.
- Check eSIM support in your phone’s settings.
- Turn on Wi-Fi calling, so you can use your home number over Wi-Fi where your carrier supports it.
- Save your carrier’s international support number.
- Decide which line handles data, and switch off data roaming on the other to avoid surprise charges.
How much data do you need?
- Light use: maps, messages and email on a short trip.
- Moderate use: daily navigation, social media and photo uploads.
- Heavy use: video calls, streaming or working online.
Download maps and entertainment over Wi-Fi to stretch any plan further.
How to choose
- Short trip, minimum hassle: a roaming plan.
- Most trips with a compatible phone: a travel eSIM.
- A long stay, or you need a local number: a local SIM.
Whatever you pick, download offline maps as a backup. Our list of travel apps worth setting up covers what to install, and our workcation guide has tips for working online abroad.
FAQ
How do I know if my phone supports eSIM?
Check your phone’s settings or the manufacturer’s website. Your phone also needs to be unlocked from your carrier to use another provider’s eSIM.
Will I still get texts to my home number with a travel eSIM?
Many phones can keep the home line active alongside a data eSIM. Your carrier may charge roaming rates for calls and texts on that line, so check before you go.
Is free Wi-Fi enough instead of a data plan?
It can work on short trips, but you’ll be without maps and messaging between hotspots. A small data plan is usually worth it for navigation and safety.