Traveling abroad is always an exciting experience, but one of the most important things to consider when visiting a foreign country is how to stay connected. While international roaming plans are available, they are often costly and inconvenient. A more cost-effective and convenient solution is to get a local SIM card or, better yet, an eSIM. With eSIM technology, you can activate a mobile plan without the need for a physical SIM card, making it a hassle-free option for travelers.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of getting an eSIM in 12 of the most traveled countries and provide you with useful tips on how to stay connected while traveling. Whether you’re going to Europe, Asia, or beyond, this post will help you navigate the world of eSIMs and local SIM cards so you can stay connected on the go.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card that is built into your phone or device. Unlike a traditional SIM card, which is a physical piece of plastic, an eSIM allows you to activate a mobile plan without swapping physical cards. eSIM technology is supported by many modern smartphones, tablets, and other connected devices, including:
- Apple iPhones (iPhone XS and later)
- Google Pixel Phones (Pixel 3 and later)
- Samsung Galaxy Phones (Galaxy S20 and later)
- Huawei Devices
Getting an eSIM for international travel has many advantages, such as avoiding the hassle of physical SIM cards, not needing to carry multiple SIM cards, and accessing better local data rates in the country you’re visiting.
Benefits of Using an eSIM While Traveling
- No Physical SIM Cards: Since eSIMs are embedded in your device, you won’t need to carry physical SIM cards or swap them out when you travel.
- More Data Options: eSIMs often come with multiple plans from different carriers, allowing you to choose a plan that best suits your data needs and budget.
- Ease of Activation: Activating an eSIM is as simple as scanning a QR code or entering an activation code, which you can do instantly upon arrival.
- Multiple Profiles: Some eSIM-enabled devices allow you to have multiple profiles, so you can switch between different mobile carriers and plans with ease.
How to Get an eSIM in a Foreign Country
The process for getting an eSIM can vary depending on the country, but it generally involves the following steps:
- Check if your phone supports eSIM: Make sure your device supports eSIM functionality.
- Choose a local carrier or eSIM provider: Look for a carrier that offers eSIM plans for tourists or travelers.
- Purchase and Activate: You can buy an eSIM online or at a local store. Once you have the eSIM, you’ll need to scan a QR code or input an activation code to start using it.
- Top-Up: Some eSIM plans come with a set amount of data, but others allow you to top up your data as needed.
You can also get a worldwide available eSIM. Now, let’s look at the top 12 most travelled countries and how you can easily get an eSIM when you’re there.
1. United States
The U.S. is one of the most visited countries in the world, and getting an eSIM there is straightforward. Many major U.S. carriers support eSIMs, including eSIM USA. You can easily buy an eSIM plan online or at local stores like Walmart or Best Buy.
2. United Kingdom
The UK has a range of options for getting a local eSIM. Popular providers like EE, Vodafone, Three, and O2 offer eSIM plans. In fact, many of these carriers offer eSIM activation instantly via QR code.
- How to Get eSIM: You can buy an eSIM from a local store or order one online from the carrier’s website. Third-party providers like eSIM Europe and Airalo also offer UK eSIMs.
- Best for: Tourists who want nationwide coverage and high-speed data.
3. France
France is a hub for international travelers, and eSIMs are widely available. You can get an eSIM from major French carriers like Orange, SFR, eSIM Europe and Bouygues Telecom.
- How to Get eSIM: Go to a carrier store or purchase eSIMs from third-party providers. Many local stores in airports also provide eSIM activation.
- Best for: Those exploring cities like Paris and Nice, or traveling across the country.
4. Germany
Germany is a major European travel destination, and eSIM availability is quite convenient here. Leading carriers such as Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone Germany, eSIM Europe and O2 offer eSIM support.
- How to Get eSIM: You can buy an eSIM from the carrier’s store or use online services from providers like Airalo or GigSky for tourist-friendly plans.
- Best for: Tourists visiting cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt.
5. Australia
Australia offers excellent mobile coverage, and eSIMs are widely available. Major carriers like Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone Australia support eSIM technology.
- How to Get eSIM: Visit a carrier store or use an online service to purchase an eSIM. You can also opt for third-party eSIM providers like Airalo for prepaid data plans.
- Best for: Travelers exploring Australia’s coastal cities and the outback.
6. Japan
Japan is one of the most popular travel destinations in Asia, and it’s easy to get an eSIM there. Major carriers like eSIM Japan offer eSIM plans.
- How to Get eSIM: Purchase an eSIM online or from vending machines at airports. Some third-party providers like Airalo also offer Japan-specific eSIM data plans.
- Best for: Tourists visiting cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.
7. Italy
Italy is one of Europe’s most visited countries, and getting a local eSIM is simple. TIM, Vodafone Italy, and WindTre are the leading providers for eSIM services.
- How to Get eSIM: You can get an eSIM from a local carrier store or order one online. Many airports and train stations have kiosks offering eSIM cards for tourists.
- Best for: Travelers visiting Rome, Venice, and Florence.
8. Spain
Spain is another top European destination, and eSIMs are easily available here. Major Spanish carriers such as Movistar, Vodafone Spain, and Orange Spain support eSIM activation.
- How to Get eSIM: Visit local carrier stores or purchase online from third-party services like Airalo or GigSky.
- Best for: Exploring Madrid, Barcelona, and the Balearic Islands.
9. Thailand
Thailand is a hotspot for backpackers and luxury travelers alike. You can get an eSIM from local carriers such as AIS, TrueMove H, and DTAC.
10. Singapore
Singapore is a highly connected city-state, and getting an eSIM is incredibly easy. Major providers like Singtel, StarHub, eSIM Singapore and M1 support eSIM functionality.
- How to Get eSIM: You can purchase an eSIM from local carrier stores or online. Singapore’s airports also have kiosks where you can quickly get an eSIM.
- Best for: Business travelers and tourists exploring the city.
11. Canada
Canada offers reliable mobile coverage, and eSIMs are available through major carriers such as Rogers, Bell, and Telus.
- How to Get eSIM: Visit a carrier store or order an eSIM online. You can also purchase international data plans through third-party providers like Airalo.
- Best for: Travelers heading to cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.
12. South Korea
South Korea is one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world, and getting an eSIM here is straightforward. Leading carriers like SK Telecom, KT, eSIM Korea and LG U+ provide eSIM services.
- How to Get eSIM: You can buy an eSIM from a local store or use third-party services like Airalo for travel-friendly eSIM options.
- Best for: Tourists visiting Seoul, Busan, and Jeju Island.
In case you’re thinking of travelling to multiple foreign countries at once, we recommend you get a worldwide available eSIM.
