Choose eSIM or local SIM when traveling?

Choosing the right SIM card isn't just about price, it's also about flexibility, reliability, and the speed of your trip. Some destinations are optional and others require some planning, but with a little planning, you'll always make the right decision when you land in a new place.

When is eSIM a better choice?

For short trips and when moving between countries

If you're only traveling for a few days or constantly hopping between multiple countries, an eSIM is the easiest way to stay connected. You can set it up before your flight, skip the airport SIM shops altogether, and start using data as soon as you land.

Plans cover entire geographical areas, rather than being limited to borders. So you don't have to switch between plans when traveling between countries. Fast, hassle-free and perfect for keeping you motivated on a stopover.

Choosing between plans can seem daunting, but you can easily weigh your options by using eSIM websites before you travel, many of which offer multiple data plans tailored to different regions and countries.

If you want a quick setup with minimal hassle

Trying to buy a SIM card in a country where you don't speak the local language fluently can be overwhelming. Some stores require you to show your passport, while others only accept local payment methods.

With eSIM, you don't have to worry about that anymore. It's a completely digital setup, and everything happens in your native language. No awkward conversations at the counter, no risk of getting a plan that caps your data at 1GB; just a process that couldn't be simpler.

Brings the functionality and flexibility of having 2 SIMs

Newer smartphones let you run both an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time. That means you can keep your regular phone number active for two-factor authentication or emergency calls while using a separate eSIM for data.

Choosing to add an eSIM instead of switching to a physical SIM can be a lifesaver when an app sends a verification code to your primary phone number but you're far away. Using an eSIM first keeps your primary line available in the background.

When advanced security and remote control are needed

When it comes to overall security, eSIMs are more secure than physical SIM cards . Unlike removable cards, eSIMs can't be easily extracted if your phone is lost or stolen. That alone adds an extra layer of protection when you're traveling in foreign lands.

With modern devices, you can lock or wipe your phone remotely and the eSIM will still be active, allowing for tracking or recovery. Plus, switching carriers or phone numbers can be done digitally — no need to physically pick up your phone. It's discreet, secure, and gives you more control when you need it most.

When does a local SIM card make more sense?

Local SIM cards come in handy when you need reliable coverage and a real connection to where you are. They tend to offer better rates, stronger signals, and access to services that eSIMs can't match.

If you plan to stay in a country for a long time

If you plan to stay in a place for a month or longer, consider using a local service. While travel eSIMs offer convenience, they often come with limited data and higher prices. Conversely, many domestic carriers offer physical SIM cards with generous prepaid plans. Sometimes they include perks like unlimited data, domestic calls, or app-specific benefits.

Local plans often offer better value, such as daily data boosts or time-based plans that eSIM providers can rarely match. For long-term travelers or those on a tight budget, the cost savings can be significant.​​​​​​

For superior network coverage

Even with modern advances in technology, there are still plenty of reasons to buy a phone with a physical SIM slot. Because eSIM providers often rely on existing networks, they often don't offer full or priority access. In rural areas, this can have a significant impact.

Local SIMs—especially those from major national carriers—give you increased signal strength, faster speeds, and may even provide better customer support if something goes wrong. Mobile network providers in remote areas often prioritize their own SIM users when allocating bandwidth or maintaining cell towers during outages.

When you need a local phone number

Some data-only travel eSIMs work well with WhatsApp , Telegram , or Google Voice . However, if you need a local phone number for delivery apps, bank verification, or hailing a taxi in a Wi-Fi-free area, a local SIM makes more sense.

In many countries, local phone numbers are also linked to digital identification systems – used for tax identification, residency applications and even boarding buses. Without a phone number, travelling within the country or settling permanently can become significantly more difficult.

Luckily, you don't have to choose one option forever. Switch between eSIM and local SIM depending on where you go and how long you stay. The real advantage lies in adapting to your specific situation.

Smart travel is knowing when to use each tool flexibly. Choose based on context and you'll stay connected no matter where you are.

Samuel Daniel

Update 11 June 2025