Roaming? Wi-Fi? eSIM? Here’s What's Actually Best For International Travel

It’s that time of year—flights are packed, group chats are buzzing, and you actually remembered to turn on your Out of Office.

Whether you're heading home to see family, beach-hopping with friends in Greece, or working remotely from a terrace in Lisbon, one thing’s for sure: you need to stay connected.

And by connected, we mean more than just occasional Wi-Fi. From replying to work emails (not recommended!) to sharing travel snaps or navigating new cities, having fast, reliable data is a must.

So, let’s break down your options this summer.

_{Comparison: Travel Options at a Glance 👇}

1. International Roaming

Convenient? Sure. Predictable? Absolutely not.

What it is
Roaming lets you keep using your phone abroad—but your provider passes the charges from a foreign network directly to you. Often, you won’t know the full cost until your post-trip bill arrives.

Why people use it
It’s automatic and seamless. No setup, no extra apps. Just land, switch roaming on, and you're connected.

The problem
Roaming is notorious for horror stories: surprise bills, throttled speeds, and unreliable coverage. In most cases, local users get network priority, which can leave you struggling for signal when you need it most.

2. Wi-Fi

Technically free, but at what cost?

What it is
Wi-Fi connects your device to the internet via local networks—usually free in cafés, hotels, or airports.

Why people use it
It’s free, widely available in cities, and easy to access—if you’re in the right spot.

The problem
Wi-Fi is inconsistent and often insecure. You’ll waste time hunting for a decent signal, and public networks can be risky for things like banking or sensitive data.

3. Travel SIM Cards

Still popping SIM trays in 2025?

What it is
Travel SIMs are physical cards you slot into your phone to access local networks—once you've tracked one down and swapped out your regular SIM.

Why people use it
They’re a cheaper alternative to roaming and offer fast, reliable coverage on local networks.

The problem
You have to find a shop, physically swap SIMs, and risk losing your regular one. It's fiddly, outdated, and not ideal when you're on the move.

4. Travel eSIM

The smarter solution to your summer needs.

What it is
An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your device, letting you download a mobile plan instantly—no store visits, no SIM swap, and no surprise bill after your trip! This is instant, contract-free mobile data you can activate right from your phone, no physical SIM card (or fiddly paperclip) required.

Why people use it
eSIMs are quick to set up, cost-effective, and connect you to local networks at local rates. With no roaming fees and no contracts, it’s the ultimate travel connectivity option. Eurotrip? You can grab an eSIM for each country or, better yet, grab a regional eSIM so you don't have to download multiple plans on the go.

Europe eSIM 12GB for 14 Days

Orange FR

12GB

$21.50

31 Days

Unlimited Local Mins

30 Intl Mins

200 SMS Texts

Buy Now

The catch?
Some older phones aren’t eSIM compatible, and you’ll need to be sure your device is unlocked. Good news: Sim Local has a free trial to check both in a couple of minutes.

Buying an eSIM for Travel

Buying a travel eSIM sounds easy—and it is. Apple’s been leading the way, with the latest iPhones fully embracing eSIM-only setups in some regions. And with 400+ carriers now supporting eSIM worldwide, staying online while you travel has never been easier.

But before you go clicking “Buy Now,” there are a few quick checks to make sure you’re getting the right plan for your trip (and not stuck staring at a “No Service” screen in the middle of Tokyo).

Here’s what to look out for:

_{1. Is your phone eSIM-compatible?}

Most newer iPhones and Androids are, but always double check. Some providers offer refunds if your phone turns out to be incompatible—so choose one that has your back.

_{2. Where are you going?}

Some eSIMs work in just one country.

France Unlimited Data 7 Days

Smartroam

Unlimited

$29.00

7 Days

Buy Now

Top Seller

Others cover multiple countries—perfect if you're doing Paris > Rome > Athens in one go. Choose your perfect plan from 200+ destinations.

Europe eSIM 30GB for 31 Days

Orange FR

30GB

$42.75

31 Days

Unlimited Local Mins

120 Intl Mins

1000 SMS Texts

Buy Now

Always check the list of included countries before you buy.

_{3. How much data do you actually need?}

If you're just using maps and messages, 1–3GB might do. But if you’re a heavy Instagrammer, TikTok scroller, or remote worker, look for bigger data plans or unlimited options. Visit our Find My Plan tool for more information on how much data you need.

_{4. How long are you staying?}

Many plans are time-based—like 7 days, 15 days, or 30 days. Pick a duration that covers your trip so you’re not topping up mid-beach day.

_{5. Does the plan support hotspots/tethering?}

Some don’t! If you plan to share your data with a laptop or travel buddy, make sure hotspotting is allowed.

_{6. Can you top up or extend it later?}

Look for plans with extended durations (15-30 days), or ones that let you top up without swapping to a new eSIM.

Local eSIMs vs. International Providers

When it comes to eSIMs, local plans almost always deliver better speeds, coverage, and value than global eSIM providers like Airalo or Holafly. By connecting you directly to top networks in each country, you skip the middleman—and the slow data that sometimes comes with it. Here are just a few examples of local eSIM plans that offer far better value—and performance—than the others.

Best eSIM for Japan

Japan has some of the fastest and most reliable mobile networks in the world—so why settle for a roaming plan that barely loads Google Maps?

Japan eSIM – Unlimited Data for 10 Days

AU

Unlimited

$26.00

10 Days

Buy Now

Best Value

If you're travelling to Tokyo, Kyoto, or beyond, go local. au by KDDI offers one of Japan’s best eSIMs and top networks, offering strong coverage and blazing-fast data speeds with dedicated eSIM plans built for travellers.

Pro tip: Japan doesn’t support all international roaming bands, so using a local network isn’t just cheaper—it works better.

Best eSIM for Europe

Backpacking across Europe? Weekend in Paris? Remote work from a sunny Lisbon café? A multi-country eSIM plan with a local European network is your best bet.

Europe eSIM 100GB for 31 Days

Orange FR

100GB

$53.50

31 Days

Unlimited Local Mins

120 Intl Mins

1000 SMS Texts

Buy Now

Top Seller

Skip the roaming fees and go with Orange, one of the most trusted providers in Europe offering some of the best eSIMs in Europe. Their travel eSIMs give you great value, strong coverage, and seamless service across borders.

One SIM. Dozens of countries.

It's far easier than swapping SIMs or relying on patchy Wi-Fi.

Best eSIM for the Caribbean

The Caribbean looks like a dream on Instagram—but roaming costs here can turn into a nightmare fast.

Caribbean Travel eSIM 10GB

Digicel

10GB

$41.00

22 Countries

30 Days

Buy Now

Top Seller

If you're heading to Jamaica, Barbados, or the Bahamas, pick a plan that runs on Digicel, the go-to local network across the region. You’ll get stronger coverage at a lower price than other providers—across 20+ islands, too!

Best eSIM for the UK

In the UK, it pays to go local. 'The UK's best network' now has one of the UK's best eSIMs. EE delivers 99% 4G coverage whether you’re in London, Liverpool, or lost in the Lake District.

United Kingdom eSIM – 150GB for 30 Days

EE UK

150GB

$25.25

30 Days

Unlimited Local Mins

60 Intl Mins

Unlimited SMS Texts

Unlimited Local SMS

Buy Now

Summer Promo

Instead of relying on international roaming that may throttle your speed or leave your stranded with tech issues, choose a UK-based eSIM that plugs you straight into EE’s network. It’s faster, cheaper, and works like a charm on tubes, trains, and country lanes.

Using eSIMs and SIM Cards Together

You can mix roaming, SIM cards, eSIMs, and Wi-Fi while travelling — but that doesn’t mean you should. Roaming is the one to avoid if you like your bank balance. The smart move? Use local Wi-Fi when it’s secure, rely on your eSIM for on-the-go data, and keep your physical SIM in for texts or calls if needed. Most modern phones support dual SIM — meaning you can run your home SIM alongside an eSIM at the same time, no swapping required.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Travelling

Even savvy travellers can slip up—save yourself the hassle with these quick reminders:

✅ Check eSIM compatibility – Make sure your phone is eSIM ready before you buy one. And if it doesn't? It's not all bad. Providers like Sim Local offer easy refunds!

✅ Don't forget to unlock your phone – if it’s locked to a carrier, your SIM or eSIM might not work abroad. A quick phone call can help you confirm, and even get your phone unlocked in minutes.

✅ Don't assume hotel Wi-Fi is enough – it’s often patchy, and can be unsafe for things like banking.

✅ Don't buy the wrong SIM or eSIM – Find out how much data you need so you don't run out. And remember, most providers don't offer calls and texts, or generous hotspot allowances, so make sure you go with a provider that does.

✅ Don't forget your charger – or worse, not bringing the right plug adapter for your destination.

✅ Don't skip the fine print – no “unlimited” data plan is ever truly unlimited—so look for the most generous fair usage policies, always.

Try Sim Local Today!

Tired of slow and expensive roaming data plans?

Sim Local puts local plans at your fingertips—built for travellers who know better and expect more. No contracts. No roaming. No stress.

Connect like a local in 200+ destinations with fast 4G/5G, local numbers (where available), and zero SIM-swapping hassle.

Try Sim Local today with plans starting from £4. Scan, activate, and get online in seconds.

🔗 Browse eSIM plans now

📲 How to Get Started with Sim Local

1. Go to simlocal.com or download the app
2. Choose your destination from 200+ destination
3. Pick your plan or use the “Find My Plan” tool
4. Install in a couple of minutes via QR code or one-click download
5. You're connected! Your plan activates when you land.

Final Word

No matter where summer takes you—Ibiza, Iceland, or Ireland—don’t let price-baiting international providers, roaming fees, or weak Wi-Fi slow you down.

Sim Local eSIMs let you travel smart, stay online, and skip the nonsense.

Ready to roam smarter?
📅 Explore Summer 2025 eSIM deals