An eSIM is an easy and affordable way to stay connected when you travel. But what if you're traveling to multiple countries? Do you need to buy multiple eSIMs? Here, we'll cover everything you need to know about using local, regional, and global eSIMs for international travel.
What Is an eSIM?
First, what is an eSIM and how does it work? The "e" in eSIM stands for embedded. Unlike a physical SIM card that sits in a tray in your device, an eSIM is built into your phone's hardware. An eSIM has the same function as a traditional SIM but does everything digitally.
With an eSIM, you don't need to remove or swap a physical SIM card to change carriers or update your coverage. If your phone is unlocked and eSIM-compatible, you can download an eSIM data plan and instantly connect to a mobile network.
Not sure if your phone is eSIM-compatible? Check if it's on our list of devices that support eSIM technology.
How Does eSIM Travel Data Work?
With an eSIM, you can connect to a local network to use mobile data. This lets you get online and use your phone's services without a Wi-Fi connection. You don't need to be within range of a router to access the internet, making it easy to stay connected.
Typically, your domestic carrier would charge you a roaming fee to connect to a foreign network (and trust us, roaming charges add up quickly). But when you use an eSIM, you connect like a local. You can access a mobile network at local rates and without roaming charges. And with an eSIM from Airalo, you can stay connected in 200+ countries and regions worldwide.
Can I Use My eSIM in Another Country?
A question we're often asked is: Can I use my eSIM in another country? And the answer is: It depends. Whether you can use your eSIM in another country hinges on the type of eSIM plan you purchase.
With Airalo, you buy local, regional, and global eSIMs. Local eSIMs work in one country. Regional eSIMs work in multiple countries within a region. And global eSIMs work in multiple countries around the world. The one you choose will depend on where you travel.
Here's a closer look at how local, regional, and global eSIMs work.
Local eSIMs
A local eSIM works in one country. Say you're going on a trip to Italy. You can purchase an Italy eSIM to stay connected while traveling to Milan, Sicily, and everywhere in between. If your eSIM is active and you're physically in Italy, you can connect to a local network. Once you leave Italy, you'll have to purchase an eSIM for your next destination.
Regional eSIMs
A regional eSIM works in multiple countries within a region. Let's say you're traveling to several countries in Europe. Perhaps you start in Italy and make your way to Austria, Switzerland, and France. Rather than purchase an eSIM for each individual country, you can use a Europe eSIM to stay connected across all of them.
A regional eSIM makes it easy to move around a region without losing your mobile connection. Airalo offers eSIMs for the following regions around the world:
- Africa eSIM
- Asia eSIM
- Australia and Oceania eSIM
- Caribbean Islands eSIM
- Europe eSIM
- Latin America eSIM
- Middle East and North Africa eSIM
- North America eSIM
Global eSIMs
A global eSIM works in multiple countries and regions around the world. It's the best choice if you're traveling across several regions worldwide. Say you're traveling to Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Rather than purchase individual eSIMs per country or region, you can get a global eSIM to stay connected during your trip.
You're all set to use an eSIM wherever you travel. Find an eSIM for your next adventure in the Airalo store.
