THE TRAVEL BLOG OF BALTIC TOURS

What is eSIM? 

When you travel, relying on roaming or hunting down local SIM cards isn’t always the smartest move. Roaming fees add up quickly, and finding a SIM card means wasting time at a shop or dealing with language barriers. 

Enter the eSIM — a digital solution that’s changing the game. It’s built right into your device, letting you connect without the hassle of physical cards. 

In this article, we’ll answer the question, “What is an eSIM?”, explain how it works, and compare it to a regular SIM card. Plus, we’ll show why we recommend Saily as the top eSIM choice for international travel. 

What is an eSIM? 

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital alternative to the traditional SIM card. Unlike the physical card you insert into your phone, an eSIM is already built into the device. It’s a small chip that holds your phone plan details and allows you to connect to a mobile network without a plastic card. 

How does an eSIM work? You activate it by scanning a QR code or entering details manually through your phone’s settings. Once activated, the eSIM connects to the network just like a standard SIM. 

Many travelers use eSIMs because they make connecting to local carriers easy. Instead of searching for a local SIM card, you can buy a plan online, activate it, and connect instantly. This also helps you avoid the high roaming fees that come with using your home carrier abroad. It’s a practical choice, especially for travelers on the go.

eSIM vs. physical SIM card 

When it comes to staying connected, both eSIMs and traditional SIM cards do the job, but they function differently. Each has its own advantages, depending on your needs. Here’s a breakdown of the differences: 

• Activation method: eSIMs activate digitally with a QR code or app — no physical handling required. SIM cards must be inserted manually.
• Plan flexibility: eSIMs can store multiple plans on one device, allowing you to switch as needed. SIM cards are limited to one plan at a time.
• Travel convenience: eSIMs simplify travel by connecting to local networks without swapping cards. SIM cards may require finding a local replacement.
• Security: eSIMs stay safely inside the device, reducing the risk of loss or theft. SIM cards can be misplaced, stolen, or damaged.

Why should you use an eSIM for traveling? 

Staying connected while traveling can be a hassle, but eSIMs offer a simple, modern solution. Here’s why an eSIM might be your best choice for your next trip: 

• Cheaper than roaming: eSIMs let you use local plans, saving you from the high costs of data roaming with your home carrier.
• No need to swap SIM cards: Since it’s digital, you don’t have to fiddle with physical SIM cards or search for a local SIM card provider as soon as you step off the plane. 
• You can keep using your phone number: You can still receive calls or texts on your main number while using an eSIM for data. 
• Various data plan options: You can pick from different plans to match your trip — short-term, long-term, or whatever works.
• Quick activation: You can connect to the internet in no time by activating your data plan digitally — no waiting required.
• Avoiding unsafe public Wi-Fi: There’s no longer a need to depend on sketchy free Wi-Fi spots, as you can stay secure with your own mobile data. 

Saily — one of the best eSIMs for international travel 

If you’re looking for an eSIM to try on your next trip abroad, we recommend checking out Saily eSIM. Developed by the cybersecurity company behind NordVPN, Saily offers affordable mobile data plans in over 200 destinations worldwide.

With just one eSIM, Saily lets users choose from hundreds of country-specific, regional, and global data packages. The plans are flexible, with both small and large data options available, so you’ll likely find one that suits your travel needs. And with pricing starting at just $1.99 for one gigabyte, Saily is a far better choice than international data roaming. 

Below is a table showing Saily’s prices for the Baltic countries, as well as regional Europe and global plans: 

GET SAILY NOW

Another unique perk offered by Saily is its one-of-a-kind security features, which include: 

• Virtual location: It hides your IP address and actual location, providing privacy and anonymity much like a VPN. This prevents websites and trackers from pinpointing your real location. You can also access websites or content in your native language, even if they’re unavailable in your current location. Right now, you can choose from 37 different locations. 
• Ad blocker: Saily’s team says their tests reveal that turning on the ad blocker can cut your mobile data use by up to 21% while browsing on your phone. It also speeds up your browsing when you’re out and about. Plus, it reduces distractions and keeps you safer from sketchy or scam ads. 
• Website blocker: Saily’s website blocker stops you from landing on malicious sites. It also helps keep your payment details secure when you’re booking trips or shopping on platforms you don’t know well. 

Why do we recommend Saily eSIM? 

• Mobile data plans in over 200 destinations
• Budget-friendly prices starting at just $1.99 
• eSIM installation is fast and easy
• Easy-to-use app Saily app 
• Flexible local, regional, and global plan selection 
• 24/7 customer support 
• Security features for safer travels 

How to activate an eSIM? 

Activating an eSIM is a simple and easy process — just your device and a few steps. Let’s use Saily as an example to show how it’s done. You start by picking a plan, then set it up through the app, a QR code, or manually. Here’s the rundown: 

1. Choose a plan: Open the Saily app, select your travel destination, and grab a data plan that works for you.
2. Install the eSIM: Use the app’s “Install eSIM” option and follow the prompts, or go to your phone’s settings to scan a QR code or enter details manually.
3. Set it up: Do this while you’re online before your trip; it’ll automatically start when you reach your destination. 
4. Confirm settings: Check your phone’s mobile data settings to ensure the Saily eSIM is selected, and you’re ready. 

SET UP YOUR SAILY ACCOUNT

Is my phone eSIM-compatible? 

Since nearly every new device released since 2018 supports eSIM, adoption has skyrocketed. Read the sections below to check if your device is compatible. 

eSIM compatibility on iPhone 

Many companies have followed Apple's lead in adopting eSIM technology. Since the iPhone XS, most iPhone models have supported embedded SIM cards. To check if your iPhone is compatible, go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan. If you see the option to add a cellular plan, your iPhone supports eSIM. 

eSIM compatibility on Android 

Google, Huawei, and Samsung are among the major brands that support eSIM technology. Google Pixel phones have supported eSIM since the Pixel 3 model. For Samsung, all Galaxy S20 and later devices, as well as the Galaxy Note 20, are eSIM-compatible.

Final thoughts: what is an eSIM? 

An eSIM is a great way to stay connected without the usual hassle. It’s embedded in your device, easy to activate, and ideal for travelers looking to avoid roaming fees or SIM swaps. 

Saily, for example, offers coverage in over 200 destinations with local, regional, and global plans starting at $1.99. You get a quick setup, local network access, and extra features like a virtual location and an ad blocker. While traditional SIM cards still work, eSIMs provide flexibility that’s hard to beat. 

Next time you travel, consider an eSIM — it’s a small change with a big impact. Convenient, secure, and ready whenever you are. 

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FAQ 

1. Can I use eSIM with my regular phone number? 

Yes, you can use an eSIM alongside your regular phone number if your device supports dual SIM functionality. Many modern smartphones allow you to use a physical SIM card for your primary number while using an eSIM for additional data plans. 

2. Is it safe to use an eSIM? 

Yes, eSIM technology is generally safe and secure. Unlike physical SIM cards, eSIMs cannot be lost or stolen, reducing the risk of SIM card swapping fraud. Additionally, eSIMs use encryption and authentication protocols to ensure secure connections. 

3. What is the best eSIM for international travel? 

For international travel, we recommend choosing Saily eSIM. Developed by the company behind NordVPN, Saily offers cheap and flexible mobile data plans in over 200 destinations. You can choose from local, regional, and global plans, with prices starting at $1.99.