Best Ways to Get a Local SIM Card or eSIM While Traveling Abroad
Staying connected while traveling abroad is essential for every traveler. Whether you need Google Maps to explore a new city, book a taxi, or share your journey on social media, having reliable mobile data makes your trip easier and safer.
Two of the most common options are:
- Buying a local SIM card in the destination country
- Using an eSIM (digital SIM that works without a physical card)
In this guide, we’ll explain both options in simple terms, compare their pros and cons, and highlight how they work in popular tourist destinations like Dubai, Bangkok, Istanbul, London, and Frankfurt.
A Note for First-Time Travelers
If you are traveling abroad for the very first time, staying connected should be high on your checklist. Do not rely only on airport Wi-Fi or hotel internet because it may not always be safe or reliable. Buying a local SIM card or using an eSIM gives you instant access to maps, ride-hailing apps, and important updates while making sure you can call family or emergency services if needed.
What is a Local SIM Card?
A local SIM card is a prepaid or postpaid mobile card you buy in the country you are visiting. You insert it into your phone, and it gives you access to local data, calls, and texts.
Best for: Travelers staying longer in one country, looking for cheaper data.
Not ideal for: People visiting multiple countries on one trip.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital SIM built into many modern smartphones. Instead of buying a physical card, you download a mobile plan through an app or QR code.
Best for: Travelers visiting multiple countries, or those who want quick setup.
Not ideal for: Travelers with older phones that do not support eSIM.
Local SIM Card vs eSIM: Pros and Cons
| Feature | Local SIM Card | eSIM |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Usually cheaper for single-country travel | Slightly higher, but convenient |
| Availability | Buy at airport kiosks or telecom shops | Buy online before or during travel |
| Activation | May need passport/ID verification | Instant activation with QR code |
| Flexibility | One SIM works only in that country | Works across multiple countries |
| Phone compatibility | Works with any unlocked phone | Only on eSIM-supported phones |
How It Works in Popular Destinations
1. Dubai (UAE)
- SIM cards are available at Dubai International Airport from providers like Etisalat and du.
- Tourist SIMs usually include data, local calls, and sometimes free Wi-Fi at hotspots.
- eSIM options are also available through providers like Airalo.
2. Bangkok (Thailand)
- SIM cards are easy to find at Suvarnabhumi Airport or city stores from providers like AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove H.
- Very affordable data packages (e.g., unlimited data for 7–15 days).
- eSIMs are available from global providers if you prefer not to queue at the airport.
3. Istanbul (Turkey)
- SIM cards are available at Istanbul Airport from providers like Turkcell, Vodafone, and Türk Telekom.
- Plans are slightly more expensive compared to Southeast Asia.
- eSIM is supported, but local plans may be cheaper if you’re staying longer.
4. London (UK)
- Prepaid SIMs are available at Heathrow, Gatwick, and city shops from EE, Vodafone, O2, and Three.
- Good balance of coverage and speed, with affordable tourist data packs.
- eSIMs can be bought online, and most UK networks support them.
5. Frankfurt (Germany)
- SIM cards can be purchased at Frankfurt Airport or in the city from providers like Telekom, Vodafone, and O2.
- Germany has strict ID verification, so keep your passport handy.
- eSIMs are supported by most carriers, making activation quick and simple.
International Roaming Plans: Are They Worth It?
Another option for staying connected abroad is using your home network’s international roaming plan. These allow you to use your existing SIM card in another country, with charges either on a per-day basis or bundled as international packs.
- Pros: Convenient, no need to change SIM cards, keep your home number active.
- Cons: Usually the most expensive option, daily charges add up quickly.
Best for: Short trips where convenience matters more than cost, such as a 2–3 day business trip. For longer vacations, a local SIM or eSIM is almost always cheaper.
Which Option Should You Choose?
- Choose a Local SIM Card if:
- You are staying in one country for several days or weeks.
- You want the cheapest possible data.
- Your phone does not support eSIM.
- Choose an eSIM if:
- You are traveling to multiple countries (like a Europe trip).
- You do not want to waste time buying SIMs at airports.
- Your phone supports eSIM.
- Choose International Roaming if:
- You are on a very short trip.
- Cost is not a concern and convenience is a priority.
Quick Tips for Tourists
- Make sure your phone is unlocked before traveling, so it can accept SIM cards from other networks.
- Carry your passport or ID, as most countries require it for SIM registration.
- Compare data packages before purchasing, instead of buying the first option you see.
- If using eSIM, download the provider’s app before you travel.
Happy Voyaging!
FAQs
Q1: Can I keep my home number while using a local SIM or eSIM?
Yes, with eSIM you can keep both numbers active if your phone supports dual-SIM. With a local SIM, you will need to swap out your home SIM but your WhatsApp number can stay the same.
Q2: Is Wi-Fi enough while traveling?
Free Wi-Fi is available in many places, but for safety and reliability, having mobile data is recommended.
Q3: Which is cheaper: local SIM or eSIM?
Local SIMs are usually cheaper for one destination. eSIM is more convenient for multi-country trips.
Q4: Can I buy an eSIM before leaving my country?
Yes, many providers such as Airalo, Holafly, and Nomad let you buy and install eSIMs in advance.
Q5: Do I need to show ID to buy a SIM in Europe?
Yes, in most European countries including Germany, you will need a passport or ID for verification.
