You're off on your next adventure and ask a question we've all had while preparing to travel: What do I do with my phone? Well, you have a few options. The three most common are to rely on a daily roaming plan from your carrier, buy an international SIM card, or pick up a local SIM at your destination. Each has advantages and disadvantages, and picking the right one can make your trip a breeze rather than a bust.
Here's a closer look at all three (plus an extra you might not have considered).
What Is Roaming?
Roaming happens when you use your phone outside the geographical range of your subscribed carrier's network. When you roam, you are a guest of a new carrier's network, and you get charged a different (typically higher) rate to access their services.
For a long time, roaming fees were charged per minute for voice calls, per text for messages, and per megabyte per second for data. These fee structures still exist with some carriers, but many now offer a set number of daily minutes you can top up as part of a roaming plan.
Generally, the lack of competition among telecom providers means that roaming charges add up quickly. However, a daily roaming plan could be a good option when:
- It's a short trip — you'll need to make calls and texts, but don't plan on using data.
- Your carrier offers free international data, calls, or another add-on service.
- You’ll have a second local SIM card or an eSIM for your data package.
If you choose this option, remember to contact your carrier ahead of time to ask about their packages. That way, you'll be informed of what you can expect to receive as part of your plan and whether you'll need a local SIM or eSIM for data while you're away.
What Is an International SIM Card?
Aninternational SIM cardis a type of SIM that can access mobile data and be used for calls and text services on almost any network from any carrier. International SIM cards are neat because they eliminate many of the problems associated with roaming and local or regional SIMs. They provide comprehensive coverage with a single card, keep everything in one language, and are easy to manage online.
However, since they're designed for long-term travelers or individuals who travel for work (e.g., seafarers or flight crew), it can be hard to find international SIMs with smaller data packages that are designed for short-term travel. That means an international SIM card might be best if you:
- Will be traveling for longer than a month
- Will visit more than one region
- Will need more data to stay in contact with friends and family
What Is a Local SIM Card?
A local SIM card is a physical SIM you buy at your destination. It’s one of the most popular methods for getting cell service abroad because it’s a quick way to secure data. SIM card vendors are present in nearly every international airport and offer a variety of data packages for your trip.
However, keep in mind that these offerings are often more expensive and geared toward tourists. That might be fine if you only need data for a week or two, but if you're going to stay longer you may consider venturing to an authorized dealer in town.
A local SIM card has a few distinct advantages that might suit your needs:
- You can get a local number.
- They have no contract and usually have flexible lengths of time.
- It’s an old and proven option that always works.
Why Not Try an eSIM?
There’s a fourth option that has all these advantages rolled into one: an eSIM.
An eSIM is a digital SIM card that allows you to connect to a mobile network just by downloading and installing a prepaid data plan (note: you'll need an unlocked, eSIM-compatible device to do so). You don't need to remove or keep track of a physical SIM card, and you can store multiple eSIMs on your device. You can purchase local, regional, and even global eSIM plans depending on what suits your trip.
However you choose to use it, an eSIM has plenty of advantages for travel:
- You can purchase and install it from anywhere
- You know exactlywhat you pay for (no hidden roaming fees)
- You can stay connected in multiple countries and regions around the world
- You can easily switch between data plans (no SIM removal required)
- If your phone has Dual SIM technology, you can use it alongside your regular SIM
When it comes to using your phone abroad, you have options! No matter which you choose, staying connected while you travel is a must. If you've decided an eSIM is right for you, check out the Airalo marketplace to find a data plan for your next adventure.
FAQs
Roaming SIM cards allow a user to make international calls but often lead to costly roaming charges. In contrast, local SIM cards, assigning your phone a local number, is helpful for temporary use during travel but may not be ideal for long-term solutions.
What is the difference between international roaming and international SIM card? ›
You can buy a SIM card online or at your destination and use it on another network to save money. When you buy a new SIM card, you can use your device but your phone number will change. An international roaming plan allows you to use both your phone and your phone number when you travel abroad.
What happens when you put an international SIM card in your phone? ›
International SIM cards work a little differently. They are programmed to connect to multiple networks, so you won't face additional charges when you travel. This is because SIM carriers make agreements with other carriers to let each other's customers use global networks.
What are the benefits of a local SIM card? ›
Getting a local SIM card
By inserting this SIM card into your smartphone, you gain access to local mobile networks, allowing you to make calls, send texts, and access the internet using local mobile data plans. It's like having a temporary local phone number that allows you to stay connected with ease.
What does it mean when your SIM card is roaming? ›
Roaming happens when you use your phone outside the geographical range of your subscribed carrier's network. When you roam, you are a guest of a new carrier's network, and you get charged a different (typically higher) rate to access their services.
What are local SIM cards? ›
A local SIM is a physical SIM card you buy at your destination. It's a prepaid bundle that gives you access to a fixed amount of data, calls, and texts for your trip. The price of a local SIM will vary depending on the country you're visiting and the local telecom company you choose.
Should I turn roaming on or off international? ›
Turning data roaming on can give you access to the internet while on the move, making it easier to navigate your way around and stay in touch with loved ones. However, leaving data roaming on without caution can result in high data charges with an unexpectedly large bill when you return home.
What happens if I turn on international roaming? ›
It depends on which is the country of your operator and which country you are roaming from. For example if both are inside EU there is no extra fees for normal traffic. But if there is no such similar agreement it will be international voice call fees, and you will have to pay extra for any data used.
How to convert roaming SIM into local? ›
To generate UPC code you need to send a sms to 1900. For that type PORT【space】【 your mobile no】 and sent it to 1900. For example , if your mobile no is 9999999999. Then to generate UPC code for your mobile no: Write sms in this format - PORT 9999999999 and send this message to 1900.
Is it worth getting an international SIM card? ›
If you travel more often, or you're planning an extended stay in one country or region, you can save money by using an international SIM card. Pay-as-you-go lets you stay in control of how much you use your phone and what you pay for it. Just figure out how often, and for what purposes, you think you'll use your phone.
Get an International SIM Card
An international SIM card is a SIM that you can use worldwide. When you switch countries, the international SIM will generate a new, local number for your phone, allowing you to text, call, and use data over a local network.
Do you lose your apps when you change your SIM card? ›
Does switching SIM cards transfer everything? Switching SIM cards primarily transfers your phone number, a few contacts, and some text messages. However, it doesn't transfer other data like photos, apps, or files.
Why should I use 2 SIM cards? ›
Dual SIM models allow you to use two SIM cards in one device. This is handy if you have separate phone numbers for work and home or if you would like to use a local number while keeping your original number active when in a foreign country.
What is the disadvantage of a SIM card? ›
Compared to the power of your computer, SIM cards are actually quite limited in what they can do. They have a small memory capacity (again, when compared to computers. Their memory is more than adequate for storing all of your phone needs). They are virtually useless outside of a smartphone device.
Does it matter what SIM card I use? ›
Choosing the right SIM card depends on the size required for your phone, but generally, any SIM card can be used with any phone with the possibility of needing an adapter or to keep some of the original plastic on certain models.
Is it better to get an international SIM card? ›
If you travel more often, or you're planning an extended stay in one country or region, you can save money by using an international SIM card. Pay-as-you-go lets you stay in control of how much you use your phone and what you pay for it. Just figure out how often, and for what purposes, you think you'll use your phone.
Does an international SIM card change your phone number? ›
An international SIM card is a SIM that you can use worldwide. When you switch countries, the international SIM will generate a new, local number for your phone, allowing you to text, call, and use data over a local network.
Can I use a local SIM card from another country? ›
Some SIM cards are designed to be used only within the country of purchase, while others are designed to be used internationally. Additionally, many countries have different telecommunications standards and frequencies, so a SIM card that works in one country may not work in another.
Is there a SIM card that works internationally? ›
OneSimCard is an international mobile service for savvy travelers to greatly reduce the cost of using a cell phone or other mobile device while traveling internationally.
