When I started backpacking around the world, there were no smartphones.
Date posted: 1/4/24 | January 4th, 2024
If you needed to call home, you had to find a pay phone and if you needed to use a computer to look something up or send an email, you had to find an internet café. But times have changed. These days, travelers rely on their phones to find cheap flights, book accommodation, look up things to see and do, translate menus, get directions, and much more. And while I think a lot of travelers maybe spend too much time on their phone, phones are a vital part of the savvy traveler’s arsenal.
That means travelers need reliable mobile data so they can find the information they need and keep in touch with friends and family back home. For travelers around the world, the best way to ensure you have access to the internet and are able to stay connected is with an eSIM. While it’s definitely possible to buy a SIM card on arrival to your destination, eSIMs are super easy to use and allow you to get prepared in advance so that you have mobile data the moment you land. They’re also cheaper and come with better support. And if you’re visiting multiple countries, buying (and keeping track of) multiple SIM cards can be a hassle. In this post, I’ll go over what exactly an eSIM is and how you can get one for your next trip so you can save money and stay connected during your next trip.
What is an eSIM?
A SIM card is a small memory card that you insert into your smartphone in order to make calls and use the mobile data. It has unique identifiers that ensure that when people call you, the call comes to your device. You generally get one from your phone provider when you sign your contract. An eSIM is a digital version of this. Instead of a physical memory card, you’ll install software on your smartphone that replicates the same functions as the physical card. Most smartphones only have a single port for a SIM card so the benefit of eSIMs is that you can have multiple eSIMs on a single device. For travelers around the world, the best way to ensure you have access to the internet and are able to stay connected is with an eSIM. While it’s definitely possible to buy a SIM card on arrival to your destination, eSIMs are super easy to use and allow you to get prepared in advance so that you have mobile data the moment you land.
The Best eSIM for Travelers
The best eSIM on the market is Holafly.
Here’s a quick overview of the Holafly eSIM:
PROS CONS:
No data sharing in some destinations so you can’t hotspot. No local phone number/SMS (data only)
How to Install a Holafly eSIM
To buy and setup your eSIM, simply visit holafly.com or download Holafly’s app (via the App Store or Play store). Once you’re there, you just need to follow these super simple steps:
While you can download your eSIM on arrival, it’s best to get everything set up in advance. Install your eSIM once you get it so that everything is ready. That way, if there’s an issue you can talk to support before you depart. While it may seem complicated, activating an eSIM only takes a couple minutes. And since Holafly has 24/7 customer support, if you need assistance they can walk you through it. Again, while you could do all of this on arrival, it’s best to prepare your eSIM in advance. That way you’ll have access to it when you land so that you can look up transportation, call an Uber, contact your accommodation, or do whatever else you need to do on arrival.