Where can I buy data for abroad?

From your operator (roaming or add-on), from a local shop or airport at your destination (local SIM), or from an online provider (eSIM).

Can I buy before I travel?

Yes for eSIM and sometimes for roaming add-ons. Local SIM you usually buy on arrival.

Do I need a credit card for eSIM?

Most eSIM providers accept cards and sometimes other payment methods. Check the provider’s payment options.

Can I buy data at the airport?

Many airports sell local SIMs. eSIM you buy online and install before or after you land (with Wi‑Fi).

What if I buy too much data?

Prepaid plans (local SIM, eSIM) typically do not refund unused data. Buy a plan that matches your needs to avoid overpaying.

What if I buy too little?

Some providers allow top-ups. Otherwise you buy a new plan or use Wi‑Fi and roaming. Estimate your needs and add a small buffer.

Is it safe to buy eSIM online?

Buy from reputable providers and use secure payment. The eSIM is delivered digitally; no physical card is sent.

Can I buy for someone else?

You can buy an eSIM and send the QR code or link to the other person. They need to install it on their own eSIM-compatible device. Local SIM you give them the card; they insert it.

Yes. eSIM and roaming add-ons usually send email confirmation. Keep it for support and expense records.

What payment methods are accepted?

It varies. eSIM providers often accept major cards and sometimes PayPal. Local SIM may accept cash or card. Check at point of purchase.

How to buy data when traveling abroad

When you travel, you can buy mobile data in several ways: as part of roaming, by buying a local SIM, or by buying an eSIM plan. This guide explains how buying works for each option.

Definition

Buying data abroad means paying for a mobile data allowance to use in another country. You can do this by using your existing plan’s roaming (and paying your operator), by buying a local SIM and a data plan in the country, or by buying an eSIM plan online and installing it on your device.

How it works

1. Roaming: You do not buy a separate product; you use your existing plan and are billed by your operator. You may need to enable roaming or buy a roaming add-on. Check your operator’s rates.
2. Local SIM: At your destination, buy a SIM (airport, shop, sometimes online); you may need to choose a plan or top up. Insert the SIM and activate according to local instructions.
3. eSIM: On a provider’s website or app, select a plan for your destination and trip length; pay; receive the eSIM (QR code or link) by email or in the app. Install on your device and set as default for data.
4. Compare data amount, validity, and coverage when choosing. Set the correct line for data after purchase.

Benefits and limitations

Benefits: You can choose the option that fits your budget and trip. Limitations: Roaming rates can be high; local SIM may require local purchase; eSIM requires a compatible device.

Comparison with alternatives

Roaming is billed by your operator (per MB or via add-on). Local SIM and eSIM are usually bought as a fixed price for a set amount of data and validity. Compare total cost for your expected use.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I buy data for abroad?: From your operator (roaming or add-on), from a local shop or airport at your destination (local SIM), or from an online provider (eSIM).
Can I buy before I travel?: Yes for eSIM and sometimes for roaming add-ons. Local SIM you usually buy on arrival.
Do I need a credit card for eSIM?: Most eSIM providers accept cards and sometimes other payment methods. Check the provider’s payment options.
Can I buy data at the airport?: Many airports sell local SIMs. eSIM you buy online and install before or after you land (with Wi‑Fi).
What if I buy too much data?: Prepaid plans (local SIM, eSIM) typically do not refund unused data. Buy a plan that matches your needs to avoid overpaying.
What if I buy too little?: Some providers allow top-ups. Otherwise you buy a new plan or use Wi‑Fi and roaming. Estimate your needs and add a small buffer.
Is it safe to buy eSIM online?: Buy from reputable providers and use secure payment. The eSIM is delivered digitally; no physical card is sent.
Can I buy for someone else?: You can buy an eSIM and send the QR code or link to the other person. They need to install it on their own eSIM-compatible device. Local SIM you give them the card; they insert it.
Do I get a receipt?: Yes. eSIM and roaming add-ons usually send email confirmation. Keep it for support and expense records.
What payment methods are accepted?: It varies. eSIM providers often accept major cards and sometimes PayPal. Local SIM may accept cash or card. Check at point of purchase.

When this solution makes sense

Use this when you are deciding how to buy data for a trip. Match the purchase method to your device, destination, and how much you want to prepare in advance.

Last updated: February 8, 2025