• Language
    • English
  • Region
  • EN
    • Language
  • English
    • Region
  1. Home
  2. Blog SIM cards for international travelling [A complete guide for travelers]

SIM cards for international travelling [A complete guide for travelers]

International calling
Get Started

With practically everything today interconnected, from remote workspaces to digital social circles, the last thing you’d want to happen is to be unreachable and offline—especially when you’re abroad.

Staying connected means having access to seamless communication, local services, real-time news, navigation apps, and many other essential services. However, travelers often face the challenge of poor network coverage and steep roaming charges.

Fortunately, there are ways to stay connected while traveling internationally. There are SIM cards designed for travelers and other alternatives like the BOSS Revolution App that provide reliable communication while on the go.

How SIM cards work and why you need them when travelling

A SIM card contains the subscriber identity module, which holds a unique ID, a phone number, and carrier details. This distinct mobile subscriber identity enables holders to send text messages, make calls, and use mobile data.

Your SIM card is the tiny chip, about the size of a fingernail, that’s inserted into your mobile phone before you first use it. While it’s tiny in size, it plays a huge role in keeping you connected. When you turn your phone on, the SIM card sends its ID to your carrier’s network, which checks it against the database. Once verified, that’s the only time you can access mobile services like calls or texts.

Without a SIM, your phone is practically just a glorified camera. If there’s free Wi-Fi around, you may be able to access some websites and social media platforms, but you’ll still be unable to send and receive text messages and voice calls without a SIM card or a dedicated app. Moreover, free Wi-Fi won’t always be available when you’re traveling. So, you really can’t do without a SIM when you’re abroad.

Indeed, the teeny SIM card contains the power of mobile connectivity. When Wi-Fi fails you during your travels, your SIM keeps you connected.

Types of SIM cards for international travel

How does a SIM card work for international travel? Well, when you’re abroad, your SIM card connects to a foreign carrier’s network through roaming agreements—which, more often than not, come with quite expensive roaming charges. If you’re going to be away for a while or travel frequently, these charges can pile up to a substantial amount.

To avoid costly fees, turn to these alternatives, which travelers frequently use:

Local SIM cards

Local SIM cards are offered by local carriers and can typically be used only within the country or region where they were bought. If you’re staying in one country for an extended period, getting a local SIM may be your ideal option. Because they’re charged local rates, they are often the cheapest option for making local calls. They also provide great connectivity as they’re optimized for the best local network coverage.

However, in some countries, you may be asked for a government-issued ID for SIM card purchase and registration before you can use a local SIM. Another drawback is the limited usability, which would cause you to swap SIMs often when visiting multiple countries.

International SIM cards

If you’re a frequent flyer or love going on multi-country trips, an international SIM may be a better alternative. International SIM cards are provided by global operators and designed to work across multiple countries. This means you won’t have to swap SIMs at every location, AND you get to keep the same number across different countries. The downside is the rates for calls, texts, and data are often more expensive than when you use local SIMs.

eSIMs

eSIMs (embedded SIMs) are fast gaining popularity among frequent travelers. Unlike traditional SIM cards that need to be physically inserted into a device, eSIMs are in digital form and integrate directly into the device. Because they can be purchased and activated remotely, they give travelers convenient and hassle-free connectivity.

If you dislike constantly swapping physical SIMs, look for an eSIM that’s compatible with your phone and provides coverage in the destinations you frequent.

Pros and cons of using SIM cards for international travel

Still not sure whether you should stick with your usual SIM card or get an international SIM? The pros and cons of using a SIM card for international travel may help you weigh your options.

  • Reliable connection. Local SIMs give access to better network coverage and higher speeds.
  • Cost savings. Using international SIMs helps you bypass roaming charges.
  • Flexibility. Most international SIMs are prepaid or pay-as-you-go, so you can tailor your data and talk time according to your needs.
  • Compatibility issues. Some phones are locked to specific carriers and need to be unlocked to accept an international SIM.
  • Device limitations. eSIMs can only be used with devices that support eSIM technology.
  • Constant switching. Most SIM cards need to be swapped when outside their area of coverage.
  • Setup Challenges. Activating local SIMs may involve language barriers, registration requirements, and tedious activation procedures.

How to get a SIM card for international travel

If you decide that the pros outweigh the cons, read on to get an idea of how to get the particular type of SIM you want to use.

How to get a local SIM card

When you land at your destination, you can purchase a prepaid SIM card at airport kiosks, convenience stores, or telecom shops. Follow the SIM provider's registration and activation process to start using the SIM.

To get the best local SIM card for your needs, research local network providers and their offerings before your trip. This avoids making an ill-matched purchase due to language barriers, limited plan options, or post-flight fatigue.

How to get an international SIM card

Many international SIMs are available for purchase online. You can order them from online marketplaces like Amazon or directly from the SIM provider's website. SIM activation is usually done either on the company website or mobile app.

Keep in mind that shipping rates and time varies depending on your location. So, make sure to place your order well in advance to receive the physical SIM before your trip.

How to get an eSIM

eSIMs are probably the most convenient type of SIM card to get. You can purchase and activate them on the SIM provider’s website or app.

Before making your purchase, research different eSIM providers and check which one meets your travel needs. Visit the provider’s website or app to select and purchase an appropriate plan. Activate and set it up before your trip for uninterrupted connectivity. 

Top SIM cards for travelling

To help you find the right one for your needs, here’s a shortlist of the top international SIM cards today. 

OneSimCard Universal

OneSimCard1, a division of U.S.-based Belmont Telecom, offers international cell phone services that keep travelers connected in over 200 countries. Among their offerings are international SIMs and eSIMs, including the OneSimCard Universal.

The Universal global SIM card includes an EU phone number and an option to add a second number (U.S., Canada, Australia, or UK). Aside from the two numbers, you may also order multiple Personal Extra Numbers to use in other countries.

OneSimCard Universal can be purchased from their website for $29.95, which is inclusive of a $10 credit for voice, text, and data2. Purchases may incur shipping charges, depending on the purchase amount and shipping destination. The card comes in a 3-in-1 size, so it’s compatible with all GSM brands, regardless of whether they have mini, micro, or nano SIM slots. Take note, though, that this SIM only works with unlocked devices that support international mobile services. 

Orange Holiday Europe

Orange Holiday Europe is a SIM card offered by the Orange Group, a telecommunications operator and digital service provider. Available in both physical and eSIM versions, Orange Holiday Europe comes in different packages for 4G data within Europe, as well as voice calls and text messages from Europe to other countries worldwide. International SIM cards start at €19.99 for 12GB and unlimited calls within Europe3. The plans can be topped up with recharge options4 for different communication needs.

When you get to Europe, simply insert the Orange Holiday Europe SIM card into your device. Once you turn on your phone, the SIM will automatically connect to the local network with the best signal. The SIM will work in 48 destinations across 30 countries in Europe.

Once activated, the SIM is valid for one month. If you intend to stay in the region for more than 30 days, you must register the SIM to keep the line active. Top up at least once every six months to maintain the number. If you’re traveling to countries outside of Europe, you’ll need to purchase the Orange Holiday SIM for that particular region5.

WorldSIM

Serving travelers since 2007, WorldSIM is one of the most reliable prepaid international SIM cards today. It provides data connectivity, voice calls, and SMS service in more than 195 countries. Moreover, users enjoy free incoming calls and messages in 110+ countries. 
With a WorldSIM, you get both a UK number and a USA number. You can also add multiple numbers from other countries using their virtual number service. If you travel frequently, you can keep the SIM active by topping up at least once in a 365-day period.

WorldSIM can be purchased directly from their website and is available in different bundles starting from $33.75. Delivery charges range from $5 to $34, depending on the recipient’s location and delivery time. Purchases of over $135 may be eligible for free shipping6.

Top eSIM cards for traveling

If you don’t want the hassle of switching physical SIMs and paying for delivery charges, go for eSIMs. Here are some of the options well-loved by travelers.

Airalo

Since it was founded in 2019, Airalo has grown its user base to over 10 million users worldwide7. As a global eSIM store, it has been providing people with easy access to data connectivity in 200+ countries and regions across the globe.

Airalo offers local, regional, and global eSIMs. For global coverage, choose Discover or Discover+8 , which can be used in 136 countries. Airalo Discover offers data-only packages that start at $9 for 1-GB allocation, valid for seven days. If you also need voice and SMS services, get one of the Discover+ bundles that come as low as $15.

Airalo SIM cards are entirely prepaid, so you won’t have to worry about hidden fees. However, their top-up options are limited to rechargeable eSIMs9. Read the card details before purchasing to check if a top-up is available for that specific eSIM.

Holafly

Holafly was founded with the primary goal of enabling travelers to buy data plans for any destination from their home country10. However, it has become much more than that. In 2018, it launched its eSIM technology, enabling users to get unlimited data in more than 200 destinations worldwide11.

The Holafly eSIM can be purchased and activated within minutes. When you land at your destination, your phone automatically connects to the best available internet network.

Unfortunately, this eSIM can only be used for mobile data. You can’t use it for calls or text messages.

What’s great about Holafly is that its pricing structure is very flexible. In most destinations, you can customize your plan according to the exact number of days you’ll need connectivity12. If you need more days, simply top up before the plan expires13. However, the price varies according to location. For instance, a 1-day unlimited data plan costs $7.90 for Chile but is charged only $6.90 for the United Kingdom14.

Nomad

Nomad is a LotusFlare business dedicated to helping people enjoy their travels without the worry of high data roaming costs. It offers eSIM data plans in over 190 countries15 and enables users to access high-speed 4G/5G connectivity at their destination.

For every destination covered, there are several data plans available depending on the amount of data and the validity period. For example, the cost of eSIMs for Chile16 ranges from $9 (1GB for 7 days) to $32 (10 GB for 30 days). Compared with this, eSIMs for the United Kingdom17 are slightly cheaper at $5 (1GB for 7 days) and $12 (10GB for 30 days).

One advantage that Nomad has is its support for tethering or hotspot. The downside is Nomad is a data-only SIM and does not come with a local number. You’ll need another SIM for calling and texting.

GigSky

GigSky is a mobile data network designed specifically for travelers. It offers eSIM cards that support international roaming in more than 190 countries18. What sets it apart from other eSIM providers is its unique data plans for inflight, cruise, and offshore connectivity.

GigSky offers 100MB of inflight data for $10.49, valid for one day19. Vacationers on a cruise can stay connected with Cruise+ plans20 that start at $14.99 for a one-day 512MB allocation. For global travelers, GigSky offers the World Plan21 at $52.49 for 5GB, which is valid for 30 days. Aside from these, GigSky also offers country eSIMs that may be used for each distinct location.

If you’re a Visa holder, you may be eligible to receive complimentary data courtesy of Visa22. And even if you’re not a credit card holder, you can use a free 100MB travel data plan to try the services before purchasing a plan.

Alternatives to SIM cards

Do I need a SIM card for international travel? If you’re still asking this question, the answer is “not always”. There are alternative solutions that can keep you connected without having to purchase an international SIM.

International roaming plans

For those who prefer using their existing SIM cards, most carriers offer international roaming plans. ATT, for instance, offers different international calling plans that give its subscribers reliable connectivity in over 225 countries. Wireless network provider T-Mobile also offers international data plans and waives data roaming charges on qualifying plans.

Relying on Wi-Fi networks

Today, most establishments already offer Wi-Fi access to their customers. It’s easy to find hotels, restaurants, and other places where you can use free Wi-Fi and not have to rely on a roaming SIM card. However, these public networks are not always secure. They pose risks of data breaches and other security issues. Moreover, they may not be available in remote locations and when you’re on the road, which limits your connectivity.

BOSS Revolution App

To save on international calls and texts, download the BOSS Revolution app. The app is free to use and allows unlimited calls and texts between BOSS Revolution app users.

BOSS Revolution also enables you to make calls and send text messages to international phone numbers. Our international call services are pay-as-you-go, so you won’t have to worry about costly subscription plans. For extended travels, US-based users can subscribe to BOSS Revolution calling plans, while travelers abroad can rely on the app for calls via Wi-Fi or mobile data.

To make an international call, simply open the app and enter the phone number you want to call. You’ll then see the per-minute rate and fees applicable to that specific call. This transparency means you’ll know exactly how much a call will cost before you make it. 

Aside from international calls, BOSS Revolution also enables mobile top-ups for dozens of mobile carriers and money transfers to thousands of locations worldwide. All these features make it a must-have app on any traveler’s device. 

Tips for choosing the right SIM card

With so many choices, choosing the best SIM card for international travel can be confusing. So, here’s a comparison table of the offers and alternatives we mentioned above.

SIM cards Coverage Data allowance Cost Ease of activation Best for
OneSimCard Universal 200+ countries Pay-as-you-go $29.95 Requires an activation code and call-forwarding setup Travelers to UK, US, Canada, and Australia
Orange Holiday Europe 30 countries in Europe 3 GB to 20GB (depends on offer availed) $49.9023 Pre-activated Travelers to Europe
WorldSIM24 195+ countries 3.6 GB to 14.4 GB From $33.75 to $135 (depending on package) May require manual connection process at destination Business travelers who need to keep virtual numbers
eSIM cards Coverage Data allowance Cost Ease of activation Best for
Airalo25 200+ countries From 1 GB to 20 GB  $15 to $89 (depending on package) Simple download and activation process Travelers visiting multiple countries
Holafly26 200+ destinations Unlimited From $6.90 (depending on destination and plan duration) QR code or manual activation process may be confusing to some Travelers with high data consumption
Nomad27 190+ countries and regions 3 GB to 50 GB Starts from $2.17/GB One-tap installation Travelers looking for affordable data connectivity
GigSky28 190+ countries 1 GB to Unlimited Data Starts from $14.99 (512MB for 1 day) Install and activate within the app Travelers on a cruise or tour
SIM cards alternatives Coverage Data allowance Cost Ease of activation Best for
BOSS Revolution: Calling App (in-app calls) Global N/A Free Instant download Frequent travelers, immigrants,
digital nomads

Stay connected with the right communication solution

Traveling doesn’t mean disconnecting. With options ranging from local SIM cards to cutting-edge eSIMs, staying connected has never been easier or more affordable. Other communication solutions, including the BOSS Revolution Calling App, ensure connectivity when used alongside any SIM card for international travel. Assess your destination, budget, and communication needs, then pick the perfect fit for your journey.

Sources: all third party information obtained from applicable website as of December 3, 2024

  1. https://www.onesimcard.com/about-us/

  2. https://www.onesimcard.com/international-sim-card/universal/

  3. https://travel.orange.com/en/buy-a-sim/offers/europe

  4. https://topup.orange.com/orange-holiday-sim-card/

  5. https://travel.orange.com/en/buy-a-sim/europe

  6. https://www.worldsim.com/international-sim-card

  7. https://www.airalo.com/about-us/about-airalo

  8. https://www.airalo.com/global-esim

  9. https://www.airalo.com/help/using-managing-esims/ZSEEHBT5HW6F/how-can-i-top-up-an-esim/2DMCF3341SYF

  10. https://esim.holafly.com/about-us/

  11. https://esim.holafly.com/shop/

  12. https://esim.holafly.com/esim-europe/

  13. https://esim.holafly.com/faq/using-an-esim/top-up-data-holafly-esim/

  14. https://esim.holafly.com/esim-chile/ & https://esim.holafly.com/esim-united-kingdom/

  15. https://www.getnomad.app/en

  16. https://www.getnomad.app/en/chile-eSIM

  17. https://www.getnomad.app/en/united-kingdom-eSIM

  18. https://www.gigsky.com/about-gigsky

  19. https://www.gigsky.com/data-inflight

  20. https://www.gigsky.com/data-cruises

  21. https://www.gigsky.com/

  22. https://www.gigsky.com/visa/visa-offer

  23. https://orange.simoptions.com/

  24. https://www.worldsim.com/international-sim-card

  25. https://www.airalo.com/global-esim

  26. https://esim.holafly.com/shop/ & https://esim.holafly.com/faq/choosing-buying-esim/are-there-esims-with-unlimited-data/

  27. https://www.getnomad.app/en & https://www.getnomad.app/en/shop

  28. https://www.gigsky.com/


This article is provided for general information purposes only and is not intended to address every aspect of the matters discussed herein. The information in this article is not intended as specific personal advice. The information in this article does not constitute legal, tax, regulatory or other professional advice from IDT Payment Services, Inc. and its affiliates (collectively, “IDT”), and should not be taken or used as such by any individual. IDT makes no representation, warranty or guaranty, whether express or implied, that the content in this article is current, accurate, or complete. You should obtain professional or other substantive advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the information in this article.

Share