eSIM vs. your carrier's travel pass: stop paying $12 a day for data
Carrier international day passes typically cost around $10 to $12 per day, per phone, at the time of writing. On a 10-day trip for two, that can be over $200 just to use maps and messages. A travel eSIM usually does the same job for a fraction of that.
What an eSIM is
An eSIM is a SIM card built into your phone. Instead of swapping a plastic card, you install a data plan by scanning a QR code or tapping a link. Your regular number stays on your phone for calls and texts; the travel eSIM just carries your data.
Can my phone use one?
- Most recent phones can: iPhone XS and newer, and most recent Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel models.
- The phone must be unlocked. If you're still paying it off through your carrier, ask them to unlock it before you travel.
- On an iPhone, look in Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM. On Android, Settings → Connections / Network → SIM manager.
What it costs, compared
| 10-day trip | Carrier day pass | Travel eSIM |
|---|---|---|
| One phone | about $100–$120 | often about $10–$30 for 5–10 GB |
| Two phones | about $200–$240 | often about $20–$60 |
Prices vary by country and plan size. Regional plans (all of Europe, for example) cost a little more than one country, and are worth it if you're crossing borders.
Set it up the right way
- Install it at home, on Wi-Fi, a day or two before you fly. Most plans only start counting days when you first connect abroad.
- When you land, switch mobile data to the travel eSIM and turn data roaming off on your regular line. That one setting is what stops the carrier's day pass from triggering.
- Keep your regular line on for texts, including bank and sign-in codes. With Wi-Fi Calling turned on, many carriers let you call and text over the eSIM's data without roaming charges; check your carrier's policy.
- Watch your usage in the eSIM's app, and top up rather than buying a bigger plan than you need.
One catch: most travel eSIMs are data-only and don't come with a local phone number. For calling a restaurant or a driver, use WhatsApp or your regular number over Wi-Fi Calling.