eSIM Pros and Cons: What Travellers Should Know

You touch down, excited to start your adventure, but your phone lights up with a roaming alert. Suddenly, you are forced to switch off mobile data to avoid a huge bill for the rest of your trip. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. eSIMs promise a way out of these travel headaches, making it easy to get connected almost anywhere. Still, the choice is not always simple. There are real eSIM pros and cons that can make a big difference, depending on your device and how you travel. This article gives you a clear look at both sides so you can decide what works best for you.

eSIM basics

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of the physical SIM card in your phone. Instead of inserting a small plastic card to connect your phone to a mobile network, the eSIM is built directly into the device and can be activated with a mobile plan digitally. This means you can switch networks or add a new mobile plan without needing to physically replace a SIM card.

Think of it like the difference between a DVD and a streaming service. With a DVD, you need a physical disc to watch a movie; with streaming, the content is delivered digitally to your device. In the same way, a traditional SIM is a physical card you insert into your phone, while an eSIM delivers the same network connection digitally-without the need for a physical card.

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eSIM vs SIM card: key differences

Getting itAn eSIM can be bought and activated before your trip. A physical SIM usually needs to be collected from a shop or kiosk after you land.

Ease of useOnce activated, an eSIM can be used as soon as you land. With a physical SIM, you first one, buy it and insert it in your device before using it.

Phone compatibilityPhysical SIMs win here. They work in almost any phone, while eSIMs are only supported by compatible devices.

Passing it onPhysical SIMs are easier to pass to someone else. You can simply remove the card and put it in another compatible phone. eSIMs, however, cannot be transferred to another device.

Signal qualityBoth SIM cards and eSIMs use mobile networks in the destination country. So on the surface, neither has an advantage. eSIM providers, like BeachSIM, however, connect to multiple networks in the destination country. This makes them much better than a local solution

Advantages of using eSIMs

You can set up your eSIM before you travel, so you will be connected the moment you arrive. No need to find a local shop or queue at the airport. It is especially handy for late arrivals or short connections.
There is nothing to lose or damage. eSIMs are stored digitally on your phone, so you do not have to worry about tiny cards or special tools. This suits travellers who want to keep things simple and light.
Many eSIM plans let you use your phone number from home at the same time as your travel data. You can keep calls and texts on your primary SIM while using local data, making it easier to stay in touch.
Switching between plans is straightforward. If you are visiting more than one country, or changing networks, you can add multiple eSIM profiles. Changing between them is just a few taps in your settings.
Buying and activating is all online, so you can sort your connection from anywhere. No need to wait for delivery or collect anything in person. Many travellers find this much more convenient.
eSIM plans often connect to more than one network in your destination. If one network is slow or patchy, your eSIM may automatically switch to another, helping you stay connected in more places.

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Disadvantages of using eSIMs

Not every phone supports eSIMs. Older models and some budget handsets still rely on physical SIM cards. Before you buy, you need to check your device is compatible, otherwise you will not be able to use an eSIM at all.
Once an eSIM is installed on your phone, you cannot move it to another device yourself. If you lose or break your phone, you may need to contact the eSIM provider for help, which can take time and cause interruption.
Some eSIM plans do not include calls and text messages, only data. This means you might not be able to make local phone calls or send texts unless you use internet-based apps. Check the plan details before you buy.
A small but real issue is that setting up an eSIM for the first time usually needs a Wi-Fi connection. If you wait until you have landed, you may need to find Wi-Fi at the airport before you can get your eSIM working.

Will my phone work?

Most recent smartphones support eSIMs, but not all do. The easiest way to check is to look in your phone settings for a section about eSIM, or search for EID (an eSIM ID number). If you cannot find either, your phone probably only takes physical SIM cards. Models from the last few years are more likely to support eSIM, but some budget or older phones do not. It is always best to check before you travel, or before buying an eSIM plan.

iPhone: Go to Settings, then General, then About, and look for a long number called EID. If it is there, your phone supports eSIM.
Android: Go to Settings, then Network and internet, then SIMs or Add eSIM. Or dial *#06# and look for a number marked EID. Menus may differ by brand.
Buying for someone else: Always check their phone separately. Do not assume a partner's or child's phone supports eSIM just because yours does.
If your phone cannot use one: Buying a local SIM card after you arrive is still a perfectly good option. For these travellers, it is the better choice.

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How eSIMs are a great choice for travellers

Keep your local phone number active on FaceTime, WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger while using mobile data abroad.
Avoid the high roaming fees your local provider charges when you travel abroad.
If you have a connecting flight or a tight schedule on arrival, an eSIM means you do not need to stop and sort your phone. You can get online to arrange transport, check in with friends or family, or simply find your way, without delay.
For solo travellers, having an eSIM set up before leaving home can take one thing off your mind. It is reassuring to know you will be able to get online even before you step out of the airport, especially in an unfamiliar country.
If you are travelling with a group, you can each use your own eSIM plan. It is an easy way for everyone to stay connected, even if you split up for a few hours or have different needs. No more swapping SIM cards or worrying about lost numbers.

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Things to consider before getting an eSIM

Destination coverageMake sure the eSIM works in every country you're visiting.

Network qualityCheck which local networks the eSIM connects to and whether they have good coverage where you'll be travelling.

Data allowanceLook at how much data you get and whether it will be enough for maps, messaging, social media and streaming.

PriceCompare the cost with local physical SIMs and other travel eSIM providers.

Validity periodCheck how long the plan lasts and when the validity period starts.

Activation processIdeally, activation should be simple, with clear instructions and no need to visit a shop.

Hotspot supportIf you plan to use your laptop or share your connection, check whether mobile hotspot/tethering is allowed.

Calls and SMSSome eSIMs are data-only, while others include a phone number, calls and SMS.

Phone compatibilityMake sure your phone supports eSIMs and is unlocked for use with other networks.

Customer supportIf something goes wrong when you land, having responsive support can make a big difference.

BeachSIM for your travel eSIM needs

BeachSIM offers eSIM plans for this area, with clear information on coverage, data allowances, and plan validity. Each plan sets out the networks you can use and whether calls or SMS are included. Prices are shown in advance, with no hidden fees. You can check if your phone is compatible before you buy. If you need help, customer support is available. Take a look at the plans for where you are heading.

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FAQs

When should I buy and set up my eSIM?The best time to buy your eSIM is a few days before you travel, when you know your dates and destination. Set it up while you still have a Wi-Fi connection at home or at the airport, so you are ready to go on arrival.

Can I turn off my eSIM and turn it back on?Yes, you can turn your eSIM off and on as often as you wish. Switching the line off temporarily disables it, but your plan and number remain saved on your device until you remove them.

Does an eSIM work without wi-fi?You need Wi-Fi to set up an eSIM on your phone, but after that, you use mobile data just like with a regular SIM. You cannot complete the first activation without an internet connection.

Do I turn off the primary SIM when using eSIM?You do not have to turn off your main SIM when using an eSIM. You can keep it on to receive calls and texts. If abroad, turn off data roaming on your main SIM to avoid extra charges.

Does my eSIM drain my batteryUsing an eSIM does not use more battery than a regular SIM card. Both connect to the network in the same way and use the same parts of your phone.

Is an eSIM cheaper than roaming?Travel eSIM plans are generally much less expensive than using your usual network's roaming service. You can expect significant savings when you use an eSIM abroad instead of sticking with your home provider.