Travel eSIMs: staying connected abroad
A travel eSIM is a digital SIM you download to your phone for mobile data abroad. It can be cheaper than roaming and quicker than finding a local SIM shop — if your phone supports it and you choose the right plan.
Check your phone first
Your phone must support eSIM and be unlocked (not tied to one network). Most recent iPhones, Pixels and Samsung Galaxy phones support eSIM; check your phone’s settings or the manufacturer’s website if you’re unsure.
eSIM, roaming or a local SIM?
| Option | Good for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Roaming with your own plan | Short trips, keeping your number with no setup | Daily roaming charges can add up quickly |
| Travel eSIM | Data for a trip, set up before you leave | Most are data-only — no local phone number |
| Local physical SIM | Long stays, local calls and texts | Finding a shop, ID requirements, swapping SIMs |
What to compare
- The data allowance and how many days it lasts.
- Coverage in the specific countries you’ll visit, including regional plans for multi-country trips.
- Whether you can top up if you run out.
- Whether hotspot/tethering is allowed.
- The price per gigabyte, not just the headline price.
Free tools that help
- International Travel ChecklistEverything to sort before an overseas trip — passport, visas, insurance, money, phone and documents — as a checklist you can tick off.
- Packing ChecklistA printable packing list for any trip — add cold, hot, business or family items and your own, then tick them off.
- Time Zone ConverterConvert a date and time between any two time zones, with daylight saving handled for you.
eSIM providers
We may earn a commission if you sign up through this link. It doesn’t change the price you pay or our tools. You complete any purchase or sign-up on the partner’s own website; KitWren never handles your money or account details.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep my normal number with an eSIM?
Many phones can hold two lines: your usual SIM for calls and texts, and the travel eSIM for data. Turn off data roaming on your home line to avoid charges.
Do travel eSIMs include calls?
Most are data-only. You can still use internet calling apps over the data connection.