Stay Connected While Traveling: The Ultimate Guide to International eSim Plans

If you're planning to travel internationally, you might be wondering how you can stay connected without racking up hefty roaming fees. One solution is an international eSim plan. In this post, we'll explain what eSim is, the types of international eSim plans available, and how to choose the right plan for your needs.

What is an eSim?

An eSim, or embedded SIM, is a virtual SIM card that's built into your device. Unlike a physical SIM card, you don't need to swap out the card to switch carriers or plans. Instead, you can activate an eSim over the air, which makes it a convenient option for travelers. 

Does eSIM work internationally?

Just like your physical SIM, an eSIM can work internationally if you pay the international roaming fee to your home carrier. If you want to travel with the internet without data roaming charges, it is advised to purchase an international eSIM plan for your travel. 

There are two types of international eSim plans available for travelers: regional plans and local plans.

• Regional eSIM plans offer coverage in multiple countries, making them ideal for frequent travelers.
• Local eSIM plans provide coverage in a single country or region, which can be a cost-effective option for those who only need coverage in one location.

However, you need to make sure your iPhone is unlocked before you purchase any eSIM plan other than your original carrier. If your phone is locked, according to Apple, it cannot be used with any other network provider even if an eSIM is added.

To check whether your iPhone is unlocked:

1. Go to Settings
2. Tap on General
3. Choose About

If the iPhone is unlocked, you will see the words "No SIM restrictions" showing.

For iPhone 14 Users

If you are using an eSIM-only phone, such as a US-sold iPhone 14, you have also the option to choose from both regional and local eSIM plans. 

iPhone 14's dual-eSIM system makes it super easy to use both your original home eSIM plan and international data plan. Suppose you are traveling abroad with your eSIM-enabled phone, and you want to have access to affordable data services while retaining your primary carrier's monthly plan for voice calls and messaging. By activating an eSIM international travel data package from a local provider in the destination country, you can enjoy data connectivity without incurring high roaming charges.

It is also worth noting that you can install and store eight or more eSIMs in your iPhone and activate the one you need when you arrive at your destination, which is incredibly convenient for travelers visiting multiple countries. Alternatively, you can opt for an even easier option by using regional eSIM plans.

How to choose an international eSIM plan:

To choose the right international eSim plan for your needs, consider the following factors:

• Your destination: Choose a plan that provides coverage in the countries or regions you'll be visiting.
• Your usage: Estimate your data, voice, and text usage to find a plan that meets your needs without incurring additional charges.
• Duration of your trip: Consider the length of your trip to determine if a global plan or local plan is the best option.
• Voice and text options: Check whether the plan includes voice and text options or if they are charged separately.
• Cost: Compare the cost of each plan to find the most affordable option. 

How much data do you need when traveling?

The amount of data a traveler requires varies based on the duration of their trip. On average you would need: 

• 5-day trip: 750 MB - 1.1 GB
• 1-week trip: 1.4 GB - 2.1 GB
• 10-day trip: 2.5 GB - 3.8 GB
• 30-day trip: 8.8 GB - 13.2 GB

Here is an estimate of how much data you might need for different phone activities.

Tips for choosing the best international eSim plan:

When choosing an international eSim plan, consider these tips to find the best option for your needs:

• Verify if voice/text is included and the amount of data allowance.
• Ensure that the eSIM provider's website specifies which networks they use as not all networks are the same.
• Check if the eSIM provider offers a support team to assist with troubleshooting any problems.

Textr International eSIM Plan for Popular Travel Destinations

Make your international travel without having to worry about mobile internet service by using Textr’s eSIM. It offers convenience and wide coverage by connecting you to local carriers covering 130 countries.

Here are some of the popular travel destinations and the eSim plans* you can consider for each:

You can purchase international eSIM plans from Textr eSIM online store or from our iOS or Android apps. 

How to Save Data on iPhone / Android When You Travel?

Here are some tips to help you use eSim while traveling internationally.

• Turn off automatic app updates and downloads.
• Use data-saving modes
• Disable push notifications.
• Use offline maps.
• Monitor your data usage.
• Use Wi-Fi whenever possible to save data.
• Check your data usage regularly to avoid exceeding the plan limit.
• Use a VPN to protect your data and ensure secure browsing.

Take advantage of Textr eSIM's 2023 Summer Sale offering discounts of up to 60%. This limited time offer will end in June, so don't miss out!