[Travel Internet Guide] Introduction, advantages, disadvantages, and comparison of 4 internet data plans for overseas travel

When traveling abroad, you'll need internet access for everything from checking maps and translating to uploading photos. But with so many internet options available, how do you choose? Kwiksure has compiled a list of four mainstream travel internet solutions: SIM cards, eSIMs, WiFi Eggs, and data roaming, comparing their advantages and disadvantages to help you quickly find the best choice for your needs.

Comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of travel internet plans

Factors to consider when choosing a travel internet plan

Whether it's a SIM card, eSIM, WiFi Egg or roaming data, there are different options to choose from. When deciding which network option to use, you can first consider the following factors.

1. Number of travel days

For short trips of 1 to 3 days, or spontaneous trips, choosing an eSIM with a daily data allowance and roaming data is more flexible and convenient. For trips of 5 days or more, consider purchasing a SIM card for the corresponding number of days. For longer trips, choose an unlimited data SIM card or a WiFi egg.

2. Number of countries visited

If you are only traveling to one country, you can purchase a local SIM card, eSIM, or activate data roaming service, but SIM cards or eSIMs are usually cheaper than data roaming services. If you are traveling to multiple countries, you should check whether the service areas offered by the SIM card, eSIM, or WiFi Egg are covered and choose the best option.

3. Number of data users

SIM cards, eSIMs, and data roaming are primarily for single-person use. While it's possible to share data by creating a Wi-Fi hotspot, under the FUP (Fair Usage Policy), users may face speed throttling if they consume large amounts of data in a short period. If multiple people are traveling together and are unlikely to separate, unlimited data sharing via a Wi-Fi egg is the most cost-effective option.

4. Equipment compatibility

Since SIM cards require a SIM card eject tool to replace them, users need to check if their device has a dual SIM card slot design. Those with a single SIM card slot should keep their original SIM card safe after changing cards. While eSIMs do not require a card change, not all phones support eSIMs; device compatibility should be checked before purchasing.

5. Data traffic requirements

While each data plan offers a data allowance option, it's advisable to consider your estimated data usage during your trip and your daily internet needs when making a purchase decision to select the most suitable plan. If your data usage is extremely high, you can choose an unlimited data plan; if your needs are low, you can consider a plan with 1 to 2GB per day to save money.

6. Is a call required?

Since most internet plans only include data traffic and not talk time, if you need to make phone calls while traveling, you can consider using a data roaming service or a SIM card with calling capabilities. If you can make calls via the internet, then there's no need to worry.

7. Budget

Different options have their own advantages and disadvantages. For example, data roaming services can be used immediately after purchase without changing the SIM card, but they are more expensive; eSIMs are affordable and convenient, but some devices do not support them; SIM cards are cheap, but you need to open the card slot to replace the card. Users can make the appropriate choice based on their budget.

Internet access while traveling | Traditional SIM card

A traditional SIM card is a small chip data card that usually has a fixed term of use. It supports calls and data, and users can contact their mobile carrier to purchase additional services.

How to use a SIM card

When using it, you need to replace the card with a card ejector tool. After inserting the card into the phone's card slot, it can be used.

Advantages of SIM cards

• Traditional SIM cards are widely available and easy to purchase; they can be bought at airports, convenience stores, or online.
• It can be used on almost all mobile phones.
• With a wide range of options, telecommunications companies offer a large selection of SIM cards with varying durations and data allowances for tourists to choose from.
• The price depends on the number of days and the amount of data used, but it is usually cheaper.

SIM card disadvantages

• Small cards are more likely to be lost or damaged
• Each time you use it, you need to use a SIM card ejector tool to open the SIM card slot and replace the SIM card
• The service relies on the mobile operator's network coverage, and signal strength and network stability may be affected by the coverage area
• Some business information needs Real-name registration 

Internet access while traveling | eSIM

eSIM (embedded SIM) refers to an "embedded SIM card," which has no physical card and functions similarly to a traditional SIM card.

eSIM Usage

You can enable it by scanning the QR code in an area with network coverage or through the app settings.

eSIM Advantages

• You can buy and use it anytime on the service platform, app, or online.
• No need to change the SIM card, convenient and time-saving.
• No physical card, no risk of loss or damage.
• Electronic devices can typically store multiple eSIMs, making it easy to switch between different data plans.

eSIM disadvantages

• Not all phone models support eSIM functionality.
• Network coverage is required to enable this feature.
• It can only be bound to one device; once activated, it cannot be activated on another device. It also needs to be reset after changing phones.

Internet access while traveling | Data roaming

Data roaming is an international internet access service provided by telecommunications companies, which retains your original phone number and contact information when used.

How to use data roaming

It can be activated directly.

Advantages of data roaming

• No need to change the SIM card or make any additional settings, it's very convenient.
• Supports receiving and making calls

Disadvantages of data roaming

• High cost
• Limited coverage area, network signal may not be stable.

Internet access while traveling | WiFi Egg

WiFi Egg is a portable WiFi router. It works by converting network signals received by the built-in SIM card into a WiFi hotspot, which can connect multiple devices simultaneously.

WiFi Egg Usage Instructions

Rent a WiFi Egg online or in a store before your trip, and set it up as instructed once you arrive at your destination.

WiFi Egg Advantages

• It can connect to multiple devices simultaneously, making it convenient for business trips or group outings.
• Supports multiple users sharing the rental service and allows for splitting the rental cost.
• Data connection services are generally quite stable.

WiFi Egg Disadvantages

• There is a risk of loss or damage, and additional costs may be incurred.
• Please return the item to the designated location after use.
• Battery life is limited and requires charging.
• Rental costs are relatively high for solo travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between eSIM and data roaming?

eSIMs are generally cheaper than data roaming. Although neither has a physical SIM card, eSIMs require scanning a QR code to activate after purchase and also require switching data plans. Data roaming, while expensive, requires no additional setup and allows you to use your existing phone number and contact information.

How much travel data do we need to meet our needs?

This depends on how frequently you use the internet. If you mainly use the internet to view maps, browse web pages, or send text messages during your trip, you can choose a fixed-limit data plan. If you need to watch videos or make video calls, you will need more data, so you can consider an unlimited data plan. However, if you use a lot of data in a short period of time, your internet speed may be reduced due to the FUP (Fair Usage Policy).