Traveling abroad is exciting, but you also have to think of staying connected with your loved ones. You will need mobile service for everything. Exploring the unknown streets, getting a cab, letting your friends know that you are safe, and a lot more.
If you want to follow a traditional roaming plan, it will have high fees, and setting it up will be challenging as well.
International prepaid embedded subscriber identity modules (eSIMs) solve this problem. You can check the local or regional prepaid eSIM plans without fumbling around with physical SIM cards.
It just takes a few minutes to set it up on your phone. When you are done, you will have access to data, make calls, and send texts immediately. This is the easiest way to stay connected when you are traveling to different countries.
Understand The Need For eSIM
An eSIM is basically a digital SIM card. There’s no physical chip to pop into your phone. Instead, you just download the plan straight to your device. If you have a newer phone or tablet, chances are it already supports eSIM technology.
What does it matter for travelers? It’s convenient. You can set everything up before your flight and have mobile lines ready when you land. This way, you won’t have to scramble around the airport trying to find a SIM card shop.
You’ll also avoid dealing with language barriers or confusing instructions. You’ll have instant access to navigation, messaging, and prepaid international calling.
There’s the flexibility factor, too. Most eSIM providers sell prepaid data bundles with fair calling rates that beat traditional roaming charges by a mile.
Are you planning to visit multiple countries? Just grab a regional plan that covers all your stops.
For instance, if you plan to explore South Asia, look for providers who offer a single plan, such as Malaysia eSIM, that also works in other countries like Thailand, Singapore, and Indonesia.
You won’t need to swap cards or juggle different phone numbers as you cross borders.
Learn About The Prepaid eSIM Plans
Different eSIM plans offer varying features. So, compare a few options. You want something that fits your travel route and matches how you actually use your phone.
Some of the things you need to consider are:
- Coverage area: Some plans may only work in one country, while others cover entire regions like Europe or Asia. If you’re visiting multiple countries, go regional.
- Data amount: Just using maps and WhatsApp? A small plan works fine. But if you’re planning to use streaming sites or run a mobile hotspot? You’ll need way more data.
- Duration: Plans range from a few days to several months. When considering your options, match it to your length so you don’t run out halfway through.
- Call and text options: Some plans are data-only, and others include prepaid international calling and texts. If you’ll be making actual phone calls, check the calling rates first.
A regional or multi-country plan usually beats buying separate ones for each stop. One plan keeps you connected throughout your trip, and it’s almost always cheaper.
Tips To Set Up A Prepaid eSIM
If you’re wondering how to set up an international prepaid, here are a few tips:
Check Your Phone Compatibility
Before you buy anything, make sure your phone actually supports the eSIM. Most flagship phones from the past few years do.
iPhones from the extra small (XS) series, Google Pixels, and many Samsung Galaxy models? Check. You can download and activate a plan directly without needing extra hardware.
Next, make sure you have an unlocked phone. A locked device won’t connect to foreign networks. This means you could arrive at your destination without service. If you’re unsure about your phone’s status, contact your carrier before you leave.
For those who travel often, think about getting a dual eSIM phone. You can run two mobile lines at the same time. This makes it simple to separate your data usage from your long-distance calling. You won’t need to swap physical SIM cards mid-trip!
Buy And Install Before You Fly
The beauty of eSIMs is that you can set everything up before you leave home. This makes your work much easier as you’ll avoid any last-minute scrambles.
Once you buy a plan, the provider emails you a quick response (QR) code or online activation link. And that’s all you need.
The installation is easy. Just go to your phone’s settings, look for “cellular” or “mobile data,” and then tap “add eSIM.” Scan the QR code or enter the activation code they sent to complete the process.
Make sure you give your new plan a clear name, like “Europe Data” or “Asia Travel.” This way, you won’t mix it up with your home line later. Note that the steps may vary depending on your device, but they’re usually easy to find.
Do all this while you’re still on good Wi-Fi at home. The eSIM will sit there inactive until you’re ready. When you land, flip it on, and you’ll have data and active lines working within minutes.
Adjust Settings For A Smooth Experience
After installing your eSIM, spend a few minutes tweaking your settings. Set the new eSIM as your primary data line so your phone uses it for everything online.
What if you still want to keep your home number active for calls and texts? You can do that too. Just make sure you turn off roaming on your home SIM first, or you’ll get hit with surprise charges.
You should also download offline translation and travel apps before you depart. This will help reduce your roaming usage and keep you covered if your signal drops.
If your plan includes prepaid international calls, test it before your flight. Make a quick call to see how the dialing works and what the rates look like. This is way better than trying to figure it out when you actually need it.
Monitor Your Data And Save Where You Can
Almost all prepaid eSIM plans give you a particular amount of data, so you need to keep a check on it. Moreover, you can check the provider’s real-time app to keep track of your data in real-time. You can also use your phone’s built-in data monitor.
Also, if you want the plan to last longer, connect to Wi-Fi whenever possible. When you are in your hotel or visit a cafe, connect to Wi-Fi. Turn the automatic app updates off while you are traveling as well. This will help you save a lot of data.
You should also download everything you’ll need before you leave. Shows, playlists, and maps? Get them offline. Using streaming sites on the go eats through data fast, and so does a mobile hotspot.
Beyond that, know how to top up if you need more data. Most providers let you buy extra through their apps. You can bookmark their site before you leave, so you’re not scrambling later.
Get Your eSIM Now
Staying connected abroad is easier if you have an eSIM and are aware of the prepaid eSIM plans. This will save the high roaming fees and will keep you connected with your friends and family.
You will have access to maps, calls, and messages without any issues when you get an eSIM. However, ensure that you set it up before your travels and activate the SIM when you land. You will enjoy seamless service throughout various countries.
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