Looking for the best travel eSIM for Europe? Read my Sim Local review, compare features and prices, and see if it’s the right choice for you.
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This summer, I’ve already had the chance to travel to several countries across Europe. On every trip, having a reliable phone connection is essential, not only so I can work while travelling but also to help me navigate new destinations. The easiest and most affordable way to stay connected is by using an eSIM.
This time, I had an opportunity to test an eSIM from Sim Local. I’ve previously used eSIMs from providers like Airalo and Yesim, so I was curious to see how Sim Local compared. Overall, I had a great experience. The eSIM worked exactly as expected, and I especially appreciated how clear and user-friendly the website was. There was also a good selection of data plans, making it easy to find an option that suited my trip.
Based on my experience, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Sim Local to anyone looking for a reliable and easy to use eSIM for their next adventure.
Who Should get an eSIM?
An eSIM is a great option for anyone whose phone supports the technology. That includes iPhones released from 2018 onwards, the Samsung Galaxy S20 series and newer, as well as Google Pixel phones starting with the Pixel 4. Many phones still support both a physical SIM card and eSIM, while some of the latest models are now eSIM-only.
When travelling with my family, I love having all the practical details sorted out before we leave. The last thing I want after arriving in a new destination with the kids is to spend time looking for a kiosk that sells local SIM cards. With an eSIM, I’m connected as soon as the plane lands, which makes the start of any trip much less stressful.
An eSIM is also incredibly convenient if you need reliable data connection for work while travelling. Because it is mostly set up in advance, you can start using your favourite apps, check emails, join meetings, or navigate to your hotel after you arrive with just few clicks.
Another big advantage is the cost. In many cases, eSIM data plans are significantly more affordable than international roaming packages offered by your home mobile carrier. That’s certainly been my experience with U.S. carriers, which often charge premium prices for international data. If you travel abroad even occasionally, an eSIM is one of the easiest ways to save money while staying connected.
What You Need to Know about Esims
An eSIM is a digital SIM card that’s built into your phone, so there’s no need to insert a physical SIM card. Instead, you can simply download an eSIM plan and connect to a mobile network operator through your phone’s settings.
Before getting an eSIM, the most important thing to check is whether your phone is unlocked by your mobile carrier. If you purchased your phone with a contract, it may be locked to that carrier. In that case, you’ll need to ask them to unlock it or, depending on the provider, you may be able to do it yourself through your carrier’s website. You can usually check your phone’s unlock status in your account settings.
It’s also worth knowing that an eSIM doesn’t automatically give you a new phone number. Instead, it allows you to you use your existing phone with a different mobile network operator, so you can continue using your favourite apps and stay connected while travelling.
How Does Sim Local eSIM Work
You can browse and choose your data package in advance before your trip directly on Sim Local’s website or app. There are several different options available, so you can easily select the one that best fits your needs. Just make sure you first choose the correct destination country.
The data packages vary in terms of speed and duration. It’s also worth noting that most data-only eSIM plans do not include phone calls, so if you need that feature, you’ll need to select a different type of package.
Once you’ve found suitable plan, you can purchase and install the eSIM on your phone before you travel. However, the actual activation only takes place once you arrive at your destination.
Sim Local provides very clear and detailed instructions for both installation and activation after purchase. One important thing to remember is that you need an internet connection when activating your eSIM. Immediately after activation, you should turn off data roaming for you primary mobile line and enable it only for the newly installed eSIM.
If you run into issues, Sim Local also offers a WhatsApp support number where you can message for assistance. In addition, they have stands at many major airports with on-site representatives. I actually spotted one myself as soon as we arrived at Madrid Airport in Spain.
My Review of Sim Local eSIM
Overall, I had a really positive experience using Sim Local during my travels. The eSIM worked reliably throughout my trip, and one thing I especially appreciated was how clear and easy the installation instructions were. Even if you’re not particularly tech-savvy, the step-by-step guide makes setting everything up surprisingly simple. I also found the Sim Local website easy to navigate, with plenty of information about the different data plans available.
Among Spain, I was also able to test Sim Local in Finland, and it worked great in both countries.
I did run into one small hiccup during the activation process when the system told me my activation code had already expired. It was a bit confusing at first, but I contacted Sim Local through WhatApp and received help almost immediately. Their customer support quickly resolved the issue, and after that, everything worked perfectly. I was able to stay connected throughout the trip and get my work done without any problems.
If you’re looking for a simple and reliable way to stay connected while travelling, I’d definitely recommend giving Sim Local a try. You can browse their available data plans and purchase an eSIM for your next trip here.
Happy travels!
