Stay Connected On Your Travels: 5 Things To Know About ESIM Cards

PUBLISHED August 29th, 2024 01:37 pm | UPDATED August 30th, 2024 02:10 pm

Imagine never having to fiddle with tiny SIM cards, stand in long lines at the airport to purchase connection plans, or find a secure public Wi-Fi network during your travels. Want this convenience? Turn to eSIM technology. Instead of using physical SIM cards, reach for eSIM card or Embedded SIMs which offer unmatched flexibility and ease, especially when travelling, by revolutionising how you connect to cellular networks. Find out how eSIM technology works, understand if eSIM cards are right for you, and learn what to consider before activating or purchasing a plan.

What is an eSIM card and how does it work?

An eSIM is a small chip which is built directly into smart devices like your phone, tablet, or wearable. Being embedded in the motherboard, you can easily activate cellular plans without inserting a separate physical SIM card into your smart devices. With eSIMs, you can switch between different carrier profiles and manage several numbers directly from  one device.

Why should you consider using an eSIM card?

Skip the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards when travelling—eSIM cards let you connect to overseas carriers quickly and effortlessly. Unlike physical SIM cards, eSIMs support multiple profiles on the same gadget, so, you can have separate plans or numbers for work and play. It also allows you to effortlessly switch between carriers when travelling internationally without changing the physical SIM.

On top of that, eSIMs also provide an added layer of security. Since they are embedded in your device, they are more difficult to steal or tamper with. Plus, you can avoid using unsecured Wi-Fi networks at coffee shops or malls, significantly reducing the risk of malware or data breaches.

How do you set up an eSIM card on your device?

First, contact your mobile carrier who will provide you with an activation code or a
QR code. Once you receive a QR code, scan it using your device’s camera to automatically download the carrier’s profile and configure the network settings.
Some carriers may let you activate the eSIM through their mobile app or website. In such cases, simply login to your account, select eSIM activation and follow the on-screen instructions. Alternatively, you can also enter the activation code manually. You can also download an eSIM app like Saily, NordVPN’s new eSIM app, with plans that range from 1GB-10GB plans, with validity periods lasting 7–30 days, across over 150 countries. Besides letting allowing travellers stay connected without paying expensive roaming charges, users can also switch between different plans for different countries using the same eSIM. Choose the plan that best suits your requirements, and activate it before you depart on your travels.

Before starting the setup process, ensure your device is unlocked and
compatible with eSIM technology. Some older models or budget devices might not
support eSIMs, including those manufactured in certain countries. If you face issues such as the eSIM profile not downloading or not activating correctly, contact your carrier’s customer care service or reach out to the device manufacturer for troubleshooting assistance.

When is the best time to use an eSIM card?

The best time to use an eSIM card is when you travel, to avoid hefty roaming charges from your home network. Depending on your eSIM provider,
you can even purchase multiple plans when you’re visiting more than one country at a time. Conveniently switch between different carriers during your travels based on your location. This flexibility is especially useful for frequent travellers or business professionals who require reliable connections without the hassle of buying and
switching SIM cards for each destination.

Another good time to use an eSIM is during emergencies or if you lose your
conventional SIM card. With an eSIM, you can quickly activate a new plan directly on your device without a physical SIM card. Additionally, eSIMs are perfect for those who need separate profiles on one device for work and personal, all of which can be managed easily from your phone’s settings.

Are there any challenges to using an eSIM card?

The most important thing is to make sure that your device supports eSIM cards, as
older smartphones and tablets or those from specific regions may not be eSIM-
compatible. Transferring an eSIM profile between devices may also require slightly more effort than replacing a physical SIM card. It generally involves
deregistering the eSIM from the old device and registering it on the new one – something to consider if you frequently switch phones. Although
most major carriers now support eSIM cards, their availability differs from region to region, especially in destinations with smaller carriers. Therefore, it’s crucial to check if your carrier offers eSIM plans and whether they support your specific device.

With the convenience of not needing a physical card, the ability to store multiple
profiles, and enhanced security, eSIM technology is a forward-thinking solution for
modern connectivity. Understanding how eSIMs work can help you understand if they are right for your needs.