Getting cheap data outside Europe: A complete eSIM Travel guide

When we travelled to Mauritius, we quickly realised how expensive mobile data outside Europe can be if you just rely on your standard phone plan. That’s when we decided to try an eSIM for international travel – and it worked brilliantly. We hade never tried that before. But it gave us cheap data, made it easy to stay connected and saved us from worrying about huge roaming bills.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is simply a digital SIM card built into your phone. Instead of buying a physical SIM, you can download a mobile plan online. We found it very easy and flexible. If you’ve ever wondered how to use an eSIM, it’s much simpler than it sounds. So an eSIM is basically a digital SIM card. Instead of physically swapping the little plastic card in your phone, you just download a profile through an app or a QR code, and voilà – you’re connected.

How to buy an eSIM

The best way to get started is to buy an eSIM online before you travel. That is very important. There are lots of providers out there, and the right one often depends on your destination. A quick Google search will show you the best options, but here are some of the most popular ones for travellers:

• Thailand – Airalo or Saily

• USA – Holafly or T-Mobile eSIM

• Canada – Airalo or Nomad

• Australia – Holafly or Saily

We personally used Saily for Mauritius, and it worked great. Check out current rates and read more here…

Our package in Mauritius

On Mauritius, we bought the 3GB / 30-day package for 19 USD. It was far cheaper than the roaming offers from our home provider and gave us exactly the data we needed for maps, social media, and staying in touch outside our hotels.

We bought our Saily eSim for Mauritius here.

How to use it on your phone

Once you’ve chosen your provider, you’ll usually get a QR code or download link. You scan it, follow the simple steps, and your new eSIM travel guide is live on your phone. Most providers have a step-by-step manual on their website, so you won’t get lost in the process.

The beauty of an eSIM is that you can keep your normal SIM card active for calls and texts, while using the eSIM just for cheap data abroad. That way, you avoid expensive roaming charges while still staying connected. 

We were honestly so happy with our eSIM in Mauritius. Most of the 3GB went into navigation while driving, and it worked perfectly the whole time. Our car rental company also offered data with the car, but it was much more expensive compared to the eSIM. So for our next trip outside Europe, we’ll definitely go with an eSIM again – it’s easy, affordable, and hassle-free. Feel free to ask any question you may have. 

Buy your eSim for Mauritius and read more about the different packages here.

Happy travelling!

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