Using Data only Calls
Actual phone calls are still way over expensive in most countries so loading an data eSIM in your phone for your destination countries allows you to keep in touch through both email and directly through Internet/Web calls using mobile apps like Zoom or WhatsApp. This does mean that you do not have to worry about expensive roaming changes.
eSIM’s are digital SIM cards, allowing you to download mobile plans remotely without the need for a physical SIM card. This means that your existing mobile plan for your home country is not affected.
eSIM Options
Most modern mobile phones can now take eSim’s, but worth double checking that your mobile phone can take eSim’s. . There are multiple eSIM providers that provide eSims for traveling including the following:
- Ubigi
- Saily
- Airalo
- AloSIM
- ZenSim
- Holafly
Some of the eSIM providers do offer voice minutes as well as a data plan, for those that prefer normal phone calls.
We have only used Airalo across countries in Asia and in Africa, so cannot comment on what the best eSIM is for different countries. Always worth looking at their sites directly and comparing costs and offers, to get their best and latest offers. There are also various comparison sites that review eSIM’s such as Techradar, that can help you select the best option for you.
Downloading an eSIM into your phone.
Most of the companies above offer a mobile app that you can download before you travel, and then within each of the apps you can select and download the eSIM and package you want. Each of the apps provide guidance on how to install your purchased eSIM. Also, each of the Apps can verify or help to double check that your phone is compatible.
eSim Phone Management
Once you have installed the eSIM in your phone, just double check to make sure the new eSim is turned off (grey toggle) and your current SIM is still switched on as usual and stays this way until you travel.
On arrival at your destination – make sure your eSIM is now switched on (blue toggle) and your mobile data option has the new eSIM option selected.
Once you are back home – turn off the eSIM (back to grey toggle) – and double check the the mobile data option has also switched back to your primary provider.
When to get a eSIM?
Make sure you download the app of the eSIM provider you have selected before you travel. You need a good data connection for both downloading the App and the initial eSIM. Worth noting that some of the providers allow you to download a eSIM with a QR code only, however, I would recommend still downloading the App for any subsequent management of the eSIM, such as upgrading data packages.
Travel Agent Support Numbers
If you have booked any of your travel plans through an agent, make sure that you have their WhatsApp support number for any emergency calls. Ask for this as you are booking to make sure you they provide them.
How many eSIM’s do you need?
If traveling with a family or group, you don’t necessarily need to get everyone an eSIM. Usually we only get 1 or 2 eSIM’s, and the rest of the family or friends can connect via an enabled WiFi hotspot on your phone.
