Staying Connected Abroad—What’s Your Best Option?
Planning an international trip? One of the most overlooked yet critical details is how you’ll access the internet while abroad. From navigating unfamiliar streets with Google Maps to translating menus, booking rideshares, and uploading Instagram stories, reliable mobile data is a modern travel essential. But what’s the smartest way to stay connected? For most U.S. travelers, the choice boils down to three main options: international roaming via your domestic carrier, buying a local SIM card, or using an eSIM. Each option comes with pros and cons based on cost, ease of use, compatibility, and data speed. This guide compares all three, so you can make an informed decision before takeoff.
1. International Roaming: Convenient but Expensive
The simplest solution—but often at a premium
Roaming allows you to use your existing U.S. phone number overseas through your current carrier. Major providers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile offer international plans that activate automatically or can be pre-purchased. T-Mobile’s Magenta plan offers free basic data in over 200 countries, but speeds are often throttled to 2G. Verizon and AT&T charge around $10 per day with their international day passes, which can quickly add up. While the convenience of not switching SIMs is appealing, roaming is often the priciest route—especially for trips longer than a few days.
- Pros: No SIM swapping, keeps your U.S. number, seamless setup
- Cons: High daily costs, slower data speeds, not ideal for heavy data users
- Best for: Business travelers, short trips, emergencies
2. Local SIM Cards: Best Value for Long-Term Travel
Affordable, high-speed data—if you’re willing to swap
Buying a SIM card from a local carrier is usually the most budget-friendly option. Upon arrival, you can pick one up at the airport or from a convenience store or telecom shop in the city. Just make sure your phone is unlocked. For example, in Thailand, AIS and TrueMove offer 7-day tourist SIMs with 15GB of 5G data for around $8–$12 USD. In France, Orange’s prepaid SIMs start at about $20 USD for 10GB. Setup requires replacing your current SIM and sometimes adjusting APN settings, which may deter less tech-savvy travelers—but the savings are hard to beat.
- Pros: Cheap rates, generous data allowances, fast speeds
- Cons: Requires a SIM swap, possible language barriers, setup effort
- Best for: Backpackers, digital nomads, extended vacations
3. eSIM: The Digital Traveler’s Dream
Skip the SIM swap—activate online in minutes
eSIM is a virtual SIM card built into your smartphone that lets you download carrier profiles via QR code or app. Most newer phones (iPhone XS and newer, Google Pixel 3+, Galaxy S20+) support eSIM. Apps like Airalo, Nomad, and Ubigi allow you to purchase and activate plans from dozens of countries within minutes. For instance, you can get a 5-day, 3GB eSIM for the UK starting at $4 USD. eSIMs are perfect for people who want data-only plans without hassle—but note that many don’t include voice or text messaging services.
- Pros: No physical SIM needed, setup from anywhere, instant activation
- Cons: Limited voice/SMS support, not all phones supported
- Best for: Frequent flyers, tech-savvy travelers, short-term use
4. Cost Breakdown: What You Can Expect to Pay
Daily average costs by method and destination
| Method | United Kingdom | Japan | Mexico |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roaming | $10/day | $10/day | $10/day |
| Local SIM | $15 (10GB for 30 days) | $12 (7-day pass with 5GB) | $10 (7-day unlimited) |
| eSIM | $4–$8 (5-day, 3GB) | $5–$9 (7-day, 3–5GB) | $5–$10 (5–7 days, 3–5GB) |
For trips over 4–5 days, local SIMs or eSIMs offer substantially better value compared to roaming plans from U.S. carriers.
5. Setup Complexity: Will You Need Tech Skills?
Ease of use from plug-and-play to QR codes
Roaming requires no action—your phone connects automatically. Local SIMs involve physically swapping SIM cards and entering APN settings. eSIMs are installed via app or QR code, and many services provide setup guides. While eSIMs require a bit more digital fluency, most travelers report successful activation in under 10 minutes with apps like Airalo.
6. Phone Numbers & Calling: What Changes Abroad?
Will you still receive calls and texts?
With roaming, your U.S. number remains active for calls and texts. Local SIMs assign you a new number in the destination country, and incoming messages to your U.S. number will not be received. eSIMs usually offer data-only service, so communication happens via apps like WhatsApp, iMessage, or Signal. If maintaining your U.S. number is important, roaming or dual-SIM configurations are your best bet.
7. Multi-Country Trips: Which Option Handles Border Hopping?
Best picks for travelers visiting multiple countries
Roaming plans typically support seamless transitions across countries under a single rate. Local SIMs are country-specific, requiring you to purchase a new one in each location. eSIM providers offer regional or global plans (e.g., Europe-wide or Global 30-day packages) that allow connectivity across multiple countries—ideal for Eurotrips or Southeast Asia tours.
8. Backup Plans: What If Something Goes Wrong?
Device loss, connection failure, or app error?
Roaming offers the strongest safety net, with direct support from your U.S. carrier. Local SIMs may lack reliable customer support, especially in a foreign language. eSIM support varies by app, and since the plan is tied to your phone, losing the device can be a major problem. Dual-SIM setups or backup eSIMs are wise for long trips or solo travelers.
9. Best Option for Business Travelers
Maintain reachability without compromising speed
For business travelers who need to be reachable on their U.S. number while accessing reliable data, a combination of U.S. SIM + international eSIM is optimal. You can use eSIM for data and keep your physical SIM for voice/SMS. This ensures minimal disruptions during video calls, client communication, or two-factor authentications tied to your number.
10. Travel Tech Checklist: Things to Confirm Before Flying
- Is your phone unlocked and eSIM-compatible?
- Have you reviewed your carrier’s roaming fees?
- Do you need to keep your U.S. number active?
- How long is your trip and which countries are you visiting?
- Have you downloaded necessary eSIM apps (e.g., Airalo, Ubigi)?
11. Final Thoughts: Choose What Suits Your Travel Style
No single option fits everyone. Roaming offers unmatched simplicity, eSIM provides flexibility and affordability, and local SIMs maximize data for your dollar. For short trips, go with what’s easiest. For long adventures or frequent border crossings, eSIM or local SIMs are the better value. Whatever you choose, being prepared ahead of time ensures a smoother, more connected travel experience.
This content is for informational purposes only. Prices and availability vary by carrier and country. Always verify details with your service provider before traveling.