Embracing eSIMs for my summer travels: The reasons I've decided to ditch physical SIM cards forever
In the ever-evolving world of technology, a new travel essential has emerged – the Nomad eSIM. This digital SIM card built into your phone offers convenience, flexibility, and coverage in over 200 destinations, making it an indispensable companion for travelers.
An eSIM, as it stands, is a digital SIM card that allows connection to local cellular networks. Gone are the days of relying on removable SIM cards, with the hassle of locating a vendor upon arrival, leaving a gap in your connectivity. With Nomad eSIM, your device will need to be carrier unlocked to use an eSIM from a different provider, but the process is straightforward.
For those venturing abroad, an eSIM is the simplest and often most cost-effective option for connecting to cellular data with your existing device. The benefits are numerous. eSIMs offer cost-effective prepaid data plans that help avoid expensive roaming fees, multi-network coverage for better connectivity, the ability to activate service remotely before arrival, enhanced security by relying on mobile data instead of public Wi-Fi, and support across many devices beyond smartphones such as tablets and laptops.
Moreover, eSIMs allow travelers to keep multiple active SIM profiles simultaneously, enabling affordable data usage abroad while still receiving calls and texts on their primary number. Activation is quick and hassle-free, eliminating the need to find local SIM vendors or worry about losing physical SIM cards.
When it comes to choosing the best eSIM options for international travel, providers like Nomad stand out. Nomad offers flexible pay-as-you-need plans with no long-term contracts or roaming fees. The iPhone 15 Pro, for instance, is eSIM only, lacking a SIM tray. Nomad eSIM also offers unlimited data plans, and a promo code NOMADSUN20 offers 20% off Nomad eSIM services this summer.
To activate an eSIM, you can use a Wi-Fi connection or cell network, depending on your device. Android devices typically have dual capabilities with both a physical SIM and an eSIM, while Apple has largely discontinued the use of traditional SIMs in its iPhone lineup (for US users).
Nomad eSIM has recently launched 21 new unlimited data plans starting at $11 for three days. With these plans, you can get everything set up in advance so your plan is active the minute you land, allowing for the use of maps and video streaming as soon as you arrive at your destination. SIM chips, on the other hand, are tiny and easily lost, requiring careful handling and security.
In summary, the best eSIM choices combine cost savings, convenience, and comprehensive coverage. For affordable and convenient international cellular data in 2025, providers like Nomad are recommended for flexible international plans. Travelers should research specific carrier options based on their itinerary and device compatibility to select the most suitable eSIM plan.
Technology has made it possible for travelers to stay connected seamlessly with the introduction of eSIMs. Smartphones, a common traveler's gadget, can now be equipped with digital SIM cards like the Nomad eSIM, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards and providing coverage in over 200 destinations.
Whether you're an iPhone user or prefer an Android device, eSIMs offer multi-network coverage, cost-effective prepaid data plans, and the ability to activate service remotely before arrival. With providers like Nomad, the option for unlimited data plans and flexible pay-as-you-need plans becomes available, making travel connectivity more accessible than ever.
