Why internet abroad can still come as a surprise

How much we pay for data while travelling depends primarily on the destination country and the conditions of our tariff. In many popular holiday destinations, Polish operators’ packages do not apply, and roaming can be expensive, especially when the phone downloads updates, photos or maps in the background. A local SIM card has been an alternative for years, but buying one means looking for a sales outlet after arrival, often needing a passport, dealing with a language barrier and replacing the small card in the phone.

What is an eSIM and how does it work?

An eSIM is a digital SIM card built into the phone. Instead of a plastic card, a profile is installed, usually by scanning a QR code or clicking an installation link. Most newer smartphones support eSIM, including iPhones from the XS model onwards, as well as many Samsung and Google Pixel models. The easiest way to check is in the phone’s settings, in the section concerning SIM cards or the mobile network.

A major advantage is that the Polish SIM card can remain in the phone. The internet then works through the eSIM, while your regular number can still receive calls and SMS messages, such as codes from your bank.

How to prepare before travelling

A few simple steps can save you stress at the airport:

  • Check whether your phone supports eSIM and is not locked to an operator.
  • Buy an eSIM for the country you are flying to and install it at home while connected to Wi-Fi.
  • At your destination, activate the eSIM line, set it as the line for data transmission and turn on data roaming for it.
  • Leave the Polish SIM active for calls and SMS messages, but turn off data transmission on it to avoid paying for roaming.

How much data is needed for a week?

Messengers, maps, email and photos sent to family use relatively little data, so a few gigabytes are usually enough for a week. Anyone who watches videos, streams on social media or works remotely should choose a larger package or one with unlimited data. It is also worth checking how long the package remains valid and whether it allows you to share the internet with other devices.

An eSIM with a phone number: when is it useful?

Some eSIMs have a real phone number for calls and SMS messages. This is convenient when you need to call a hotel, driver or restaurant, or receive an SMS from a local company. A separate number is also useful for verification codes from apps, without providing your private number.

An example is Simbye: eSIMs for more than 190 countries, unlimited data in more than 50 locations and eSIMs with a real phone number for calls and SMS messages in more than 20 countries. Separate numbers from the USA, the United Kingdom and Australia are also available for receiving codes from apps and banks. In the app, you can additionally combine several countries in one eSIM, which is useful during a longer journey through several countries.

What to watch out for

  • Treat the QR code for installing an eSIM like an account access code: do not share it with anyone else.
  • Do not remove the eSIM from your phone before the end of your trip, because reinstalling it is not always possible.
  • Before departure, check whether the package covers all the countries on your route, including stopover locations.
  • Choose a provider whose technical support is also available in the evenings and at weekends.

A well-prepared phone is one less thing to worry about during your holiday. A few minutes at home are enough to check the route to your hotel immediately after landing, order transport and let your loved ones know that everything is fine.