Get Connected Like a Local: How to Choose the Best eSIM for Your Travels

As technology advances, more people are turning to eSIMs for their mobile connectivity needs while traveling. An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a small chip that is built into your device and can be programmed with a mobile network's credentials. Unlike traditional SIM cards, eSIMs do not require physical swapping, making them a convenient and cost-effective option for frequent travelers.

Undoubtedly, opting for an eSIM for your travels is a wise decision. However, with the many eSIM data plans available, selecting the best one for your trip can take time and effort. Your choice of eSIM data plan will hinge on several factors, such as your travel destination, duration of stay, and the amount of data you anticipate using during your journey.

Thankfully, we are here to assist you in making an informed decision. Keep reading to discover the best eSIM for your travel needs.

Why eSIM is the Best Choice for Traveling

Using eSIMs for international travel offers several advantages, including:

• Cost-effective. Traditional SIM cards can be costly, especially when traveling internationally. eSIMs eliminate the need for physical SIM cards, saving travelers money on roaming fees and international data plans. With an eSIM, travelers can purchase a local data plan and avoid the expensive fees associated with traditional roaming.
• Convenient. eSIMs can be activated remotely, making them a convenient option for travelers who want to stay connected without the hassle of physical SIM cards. This means travelers can purchase and activate an eSIM before leaving for their trip, eliminating the need to find a local SIM card provider or deal with the hassle of swapping SIM cards.
• Global connectivity. eSIMs can be programmed with multiple mobile networks, providing travelers with better coverage and access to local networks. This means travelers can stay connected anywhere without worrying whether their phone is compatible with local networks. With an eSIM, travelers can enjoy global connectivity and stay connected to loved ones and colleagues back home.

How to Choose the Best eSIM for Your Travels

Choosing the best eSIM for your travels can be overwhelming, but following these steps can help simplify the process:

Step 1: Determine your destination and data needs

Before choosing an eSIM, it's important to consider where you will be traveling and how much data you will need. This will help you choose an eSIM that offers coverage in your destination and data plans that meet your needs.

Where are you traveling to?

Different countries have different eSIM providers and coverage areas. Researching the eSIM bundles available in your destination is important to ensure you can stay connected there. Some eSIM bundles may have limited coverage or be unavailable in certain countries, so it's important to check beforehand.

At Keepgo, we provide a growing selection of eSIM bundles for different countries and networks. Depending on your travel preferences, you can choose an eSIM bundle that covers not one but several different destinations you’re interested in. For example, if you are travelling to Europe to visit Italy and Spain, Keepgo provides several eSIM bundles for your needs. You may choose the Antares eSIM, the cheapest eSIM bundle with the $5 price for a 1GB refill of data that never expires. Or, you may opt for the Orion eSIM, considered one of the fastest eSIM bundles available at Keepgo. By the way, if you are traveling to Europe from the USA, the Orion eSIM should be useful as a backup data solution for local use, since it provides coverage on the AT&T network in the US. Another lucrative option is a global eSIM - Phoenix, which you can use at home and abroad. 

How much data do you need?

Make sure to choose an eSIM that offers data plans that meet your needs. Consider how much data you typically use daily and factor in any activities requiring more data usage, such as streaming or downloading large files. Choosing a data bundle that will provide enough data for your needs without overpaying for unused data is important.

Once you've determined your travel destination and data needs, you'll be ready to start researching eSIM providers. This will help you find the best option for your needs and ensure that you can stay connected while traveling without breaking the bank.

Step 2: How Long Will You Be Abroad?

After determining which type of eSIM is suitable for your travel, it is important to consider the duration of your stay abroad. Unlike other eSIM providers offering data plans that are valid for a certain period, Keepgo eSIM data bundles are available for a lifetime when refilled with any amount at least once a year. 

Step 3: How Much Data Will You Need?

Lastly, you must consider the amount of data you require for your trip. Airalo eSIMs are available with a fixed amount of data such as 1GB, 3GB, or 5GB, and some plans also offer a top-up option to add data when you need it. The best eSIM data plan for your trip must cater to your data needs, whether it is 1GB, 10GB, or 20GB.

The quantity of data you require is dependent on your smartphone usage when you travel. According to Samsung, 1GB of data is adequate for checking emails, scrolling through social media, and browsing the internet for 20-30 minutes a day in a month.

Here's a breakdown of how much data various activities require, which can assist you in determining the amount you may need for your trip:

• Google Maps: 5MB per hour
• Social Media: 50MB per hour
• Internet Browsing: 50MB per hour
• Online Gaming: 70+MB per hour
• Streaming Music: 100MB per hour
• SD Video: 1GB per hour
• HD Video: 4GB per hour
• 4K Video: 7GB per hour

Step 4: Purchase and activate your eSIM

Purchase and activate your eSIM before traveling. 

Take the following steps to purchase a Keepgo eSIM:

• Go to https://www.keepgo.com/collections/prepaid-esim-data-bundles
• Choose the preferred eSIM data bundle and click “Buy Now.”
• You’ll be taken to the selected eSIM details page at https://myaccount.keepgo.com/ (where you need to sign up or register) 
• Click the “Buy eSIM” button. You will see a list of eSIM refill data options with prices. 
• Refill the balance of the selected eSIM data bundle.
• Scan the eSIM QR code with your smartphone or use the activation code that we send to your email.
• The eSIM is added to your device. Activate the eSIM plan and start using the Internet.

Conclusion

Using an eSIM for international travel offers a cost-effective and convenient way to stay connected while on the go. Following the steps outlined in this guide, you can choose the best eSIM provider for your travel needs and enjoy a stress-free travel experience.

FAQ

What Is an eSIM?

An eSIM, short for embedded SIM, is a tiny memory chip that's incorporated into your device during the manufacturing process. Like a physical SIM card, it identifies you as a mobile customer and links you to a carrier's network, but it does so entirely digitally. With an eSIM, you can download a data plan, install it on your device, and connect to a mobile network, all from your smartphone. You don't need to go looking for a SIM vendor, swap out physical SIM cards, or manage multiple SIMs while traveling. Instead, you can download a digital plan and connect within minutes, no matter where you are in the world.

Where To Get an eSIM bundle?

Consider checking out the collection of eSIM bundles at Keepgo. Our website offers a growing collection of 15+ eSIM bundles for different regions, making it effortless to stay connected at home and abroad. 

Opting for a Keepgo eSIM comes with a variety of perks, including:

• No roaming charges or international rates – pay the same fee wherever you go;
• Your phone will be compatible with overseas networks;
• Data valid for a lifetime as long as topped up once a year;
• No monthly payments;
• Coverage on several networks in each country;
• Install as many eSIMs as you wish;
• Ability to download and use the eSIM immediately.

How to Know if Your Phone Supports eSIM

Before buying an eSIM bundle, it's crucial to confirm that your phone is compatible with eSIM technology. Your phone must be unlocked from its carrier and have the capability to support eSIMs in order to use them.