Last Updated on February 28, 2026
The use of eSIM cards are becoming increasingly popular Staying connected while you’re on a trip is a big concern, whether you are a solo traveler or going on a group trip. However, if you’re traveling out of the country it can get pretty expensive
Despite the increasingly interconnected world we live in, phone service doesn’t seem to be one of those things.
Now I’m not saying your phone won’t have service in a different country, because it will, but you are going to pay a hefty fee for it. Every year it seems there is another story in the news about coming home from vacation to an outrageous cell phone bill.
Not to worry, there are ways to prevent this, like using an eSIM. There are a few different methods so choose the on that works best for you!
Mexico and Canada
If you are based in the United States and your phone plan is from a US carrier, there is a good chance you get free service in Canada and Mexico. AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile all offer free text, call, and data in Mexico and Canada.
All you have do when you arrive is turn on data roaming, and cycle your phone on and off. You should see your phone connect to the new network and you are good to go!
Outside the U.S., Mexico, and Canada
Even if you are outside the United States and its neighbors your phone will likely still work. However, it’s almost guaranteed that you will be charged outrageous roaming fee to use your phone abroad that can add up to thousands of dollars.
In the past people would have gotten foreign cell phone plans or bought ans extra phone. That’s not necessary in today’s world you can get an electronic SIM card on your phone, called an eSIM. This is a prepaid plan that will allow you to use your phone without using your home phone plan.
How eSIMs work
Electronic SIM cards or eSIMs are the digital counter parts to physical SIM cards that allow a phone to use a cellular network. Most US service providers use this already and your phone can generally have multiple saved.
An eSIM for your trip will allow you to use data and make calls while abroad without paying outrageous roaming fees. Depending on your phone model you may be able to have two eSIMs active at once. If this is the case be sure to put your primary one in airplane mode to avoid your phone trying to use it.
Where to get an eSIM
There are a few ways to get an eSIM. The quickest way is to purchase one online, either from a provider or marketplace. This will download the eSIM right to your phone and then you follow the activation instructions. Now when you land just power cycle your phone and you should be good to go. Personally, I use MobiMatter marketplace. I have also used Airalo in the past.
If you are hesitant of purchasing online you can usually going to a brick and mortar store and they will set it up for you. The downside of this is you will need to wait to you arrive in your destination and then find a location. Purchasing an eSIM online gives you the advantage of having it ready to go ahead of time.
Different types of eSIMs
There are two general types of eSIMs. One that is data only and one that includes data, talk, and text.
Your home cell phone service plan probably covers talk, text, and data. However, for an eSIM while traveling is the data only type. Not only are these usually cheaper, but most travelers don’t need a foreign phone number.
iMessage functions using data, meaning your can still text anyone with an iPhone use it a data only eSIM. WhatsApp, another popular communication platform, also uses data for calls and texts. These apps allow you to meet your functionally needs of your cell phone with a data on eSIM.
Another method I have see is buying an eSIM on an older phone and the hotspotting the data to other devices. This method can work well for families with multiple devices.
If you will be staying for an extended period of time, or conducting business while abroad it maybe advantageous to also have talk/text. For most travelers though, data only is fine.
Takeaway: eSIMs are a great tool to save money and stay connected while traveling
The fast pace of today’s world requires use to be more connected than ever. Not just for convenience but for safety and peace of mind. Using an eSIM on your next trip can help you stay connected for an affordable price.