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eSim data plan for travelling

Mobile plans for data and voice are relatively cost-effective in your home country, but if you use that same mobile plan while traveling in another country, prepare for added costs that may shock you.  Most mobile providers will work outside your region (called roaming), but fees for this service can double the normal monthly charge.

Data service on your mobile device is a necessity; the most convenient method is via cellular networks that keep you connected during your travels.  Some travellers can get by with WiFi from their hotel or cafe but sacrifice convenience while out and about.  For our trip to Thailand two years ago, we purchased a SIM card in that country, providing us with Data services for 30 days.  The Thailand SIM card worked well, but it required us to swap out the SIM card from our home country - don't lose it!

Enter the eSIM.  This technology has been available for a few years, but we used it for the first time in Portugal.  The eSIM is an embedded chip in your mobile phone that can be programmed to connect with worldwide phone service providers that provide voice/data plans at competitive rates.  Before leaving for Portugal, we signed up with an eSIM provider called Airalo.  Here is a coupon code to save a few dollars on your first eSIM.

Use code CHALO7796 when you sign up or at checkout. https://ref.airalo.com/3L6U

Using an eSIM simplifies the process of adding data/voice/text services to your phone for international use.  The package you purchase is simply downloaded to your phone, just like a text message.  No physical cards to handle or lose, easy management of multiple packages for different countries, and the ability to track usage via the respective provider app.


Tips on using eSIM and saving your data

  • Order and add the eSIM before leaving your home country.  Although not required, this step gives you peace of mind by completing the process without worrying about finding WiFi after landing in a foreign airport.
  • Purchase more data than you think you will need.  It's simple to "top up" your data plan if you are close to running out, but purchasing a bigger plan upfront is more cost-effective.
  • Enable the Data Saving feature on mobile phones; this will prevent many apps from using "background data".  Even apps that you are not running will use background data, Data Saver will help to minimize usage.
  • Turn OFF the automatic Download of Media in WhatsApp or other chat apps.  Only use auto download when using WiFi.
  • During extended periods of stay at a hotel where WiFi is available, turn OFF the eSIM (simply enable Airplane Mode).  This will force your device to use WiFi instead of the eSIM data plan.  We discovered while watching YouTube on a phone at an Airbnb that the WiFi connection was offline, but the video continued to play, consuming the data plan.  This mistake consumed the data plan without us realizing it. Luckily, we discovered the mistake before consuming the entire data allocation from the eSIM.



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