March 27, 2025, 1:17 p.m. | Reading time: 4 minutes
Many of us probably remember times when the idea of using a cell phone abroad seemed completely absurd. After all, high roaming fees could overshadow the vacation afterwards if an unexpectedly high cell phone bill arrived. Today this danger no longer exists within the EU. And it is also possible to make inexpensive calls and use internet-based services outside the Union - for example with an eSIM. All important information about it.
eSIM (short for embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card that is permanently integrated into a device. This eliminates the need for a physical card. As our colleagues at TECHBOOK explain in more detail, an eSIM enables easier use in many ways, which will be discussed in more detail below. It offers numerous advantages, especially for frequent travelers, especially outside the EU.
That's why using an eSIM abroad makes sense
Activating an eSIM
What you should consider when using it
That's why using an eSIM abroad makes sense
“SIM” and vacation – for many, the two topics have already belonged together. Holidaymakers who wanted to avoid high roaming costs often bought a local prepaid SIM card after arriving at their destination. Roaming refers to the use of the cell phone outside the home network, which often resulted in unexpectedly high costs, even for incoming calls. Since the introduction of the roam-like-at-home regulation in 2017, these worries have become a thing of the past in many places, as the same prices and conditions now apply within the EU as well as in Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein as in the home country.
In order to benefit from comparably favorable conditions outside the EU, the eSIM is a practical solution. The eSIM integrated into the device makes it possible to save several mobile phone tariffs on one device. This allows users to flexibly switch between different providers and tariffs, for example between the domestic tariff and a local tariff where they are abroad. This means you can easily make calls, send SMS and surf on site at the applicable tariffs. With the eSIM you not only avoid or reduce roaming fees, but you also remain reachable on your usual phone number.
Making calls and surfing on vacationTravelers beware! How to avoid cell phone cost traps abroad
Important tipsBe careful, roaming! How travelers to Switzerland avoid the cell phone cost trap
Activating an eSIM
Mobile phone contracts with an eSIM work digitally. This makes switching between providers and activation possible in just a few minutes. As TECHBOOK explains, the setup is usually done via an app or via the mobile provider's customer portal, many of which support eSIMs as standard and provide corresponding tariffs. The user usually receives a QR code (sometimes already included with the contract documents), which must be scanned with their smartphone. Depending on the provider, an activation code may also be required.
If you have any doubts about a modern smartphone, you can assume that it is eSIM-capable. You can find out from the manufacturer or in the technical specifications of the device.
What you should consider when using it
Using an eSIM does not automatically mean no roaming charges. When selecting the tariff, special international solutions should be booked in order to avoid high costs. Otherwise, the provider’s regular conditions apply – at least outside the EU. It should also be noted that some eSIM tariffs only have a limited data volume. If this is exceeded, additional costs may arise.
In a comprehensive comparison by “Süddeutsche Zeitung”, the provider Saily was chosen as the winner for cell phone use on international trips. The network coverage in Europe and Asia is excellent, and Saily also offers flexible tariffs without a contract, so that costs remain easily controllable. Data packages are also available for different countries, making Saily's eSIM a particularly user-friendly choice.
Disadvantages of an eSIM – not least when on vacation
In general, an eSIM does not only bring advantages. While previously you simply had to insert a new SIM card into the device when changing providers, using an eSIM requires the support of the mobile service provider. This person has to program the eSIM accordingly, and this doesn't happen for free. It should also be borne in mind that problems can arise if the smartphone you are using is damaged due to a fall, water damage or other incident. Now it is not possible to remove the card built into the device and insert it into a transitional cell phone. This could be a scenario that can cause significant inconvenience, especially when on vacation. In order to be mobile accessible again, the user would, in the worst case scenario, have to have the device repaired or replaced.
Essential Travel Planning Tips, Destinations, Shopping, and Lifestyle Resources
Whether you're planning your next vacation, researching destinations, comparing travel costs, or looking for unique online stores, having reliable resources can make every decision easier. This guide highlights useful travel insights, money-saving tips, dining recommendations, and specialty websites worth exploring.
Smart Travel Planning and Budget Strategies
Successful trips start with proper preparation. Before booking, review these practical href="https://grandgoldman.com/blogs/travel/planning-tips">travel planning tips to avoid common mistakes and maximize your budget.
Travelers interested in resort vacations should learn the cheapest time for all-inclusive resorts and discover the most affordable countries for all-inclusive resorts.
If you're comparing options, explore whether all-inclusive vacations are cheaper than booking separately, understand how all-inclusive resorts generate revenue, and determine the ideal length of an all-inclusive stay.
Understanding All-Inclusive Resorts
Many travelers wonder about resort experiences. Learn about the various types of all-inclusive resorts, discover the advantages and drawbacks of all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, and see whether all-inclusive resorts are really boring.
You may also want to know whether resorts water down alcohol, what happens at adult-only all-inclusive resorts, and whether kids-free">Sandals Resorts are kid-free.
Dining Recommendations Around Europe
Food is often the highlight of travel. Discover the best restaurants in Córdoba, find a cheap restaurant in Madrid, enjoy local cuisine at a budget-friendly restaurant in Cudillero, explore the best restaurants in Budapest, and save money with recommendations for the best cheap restaurants in Iceland.
Unique Destinations and Cultural Insights
Travelers heading to Mexico may enjoy these clothing-optional beaches in Cancun. For those interested in history and social studies, this guide to South African apartheid history offers valuable context.
Travel Finance and Essential Resources
Reducing banking fees while abroad can significantly lower travel costs. Compare options for the best credit cards without foreign transaction fees.
Online Shopping, Business, and Lifestyle Websites
Beyond travel, several specialty websites provide useful products and services. Explore educational toys at Building Blocks Toy, Spanish business resources at Empresa España, and French business information through Entreprises France.
anime-toy.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Anime fans can browse merchandise at jujutsu-kaisen-merch.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">jujutsu-kaisen-merch.com/">Jujutsu Kaisen Merch, while leather enthusiasts may appreciate Leder Kaufen.
Creative services are available through Matrix Studios, while premium fashion shoppers can visit Pretium Victoriae. Gaming enthusiasts can discover retro-games.co" target="_blank" rel="noopener">retro entertainment at Retro Games.
Motorcycle riderace.net" target="_blank" rel="noopener">riders may enjoy resources from RideRace, and kitchen product shoppers can explore innovative accessories at Walfos, with cutting edge compact computers at Mini PC.
Final Thoughts
From all-inclusive resort planning and European dining guides to financial travel tools and niche online stores, these resources provide valuable information for travelers, shoppers, entrepreneurs, and hobbyists looking to make informed decisions and enjoy better experiences.
