Do I need to buy something before I travel?

Not for roaming. For eSIM you can buy and install before you go. For local SIM you usually buy on arrival.

What if my phone is locked?

A locked phone may only accept your operator’s SIM. You need an unlocked device to use a local SIM or many eSIM plans. eSIM from your operator may work on a locked device.

Can I get data at the airport?

Some airports sell local SIMs or have eSIM options. You can also install an eSIM before you fly and use it when you land.

How do I know how much data I need?

Estimate from your use: messaging and maps use less; video and streaming use more. Multiply by days and add a buffer. Many providers offer plans in steps (e.g. 5, 10 GB).

Will my home number still work?

Yes, if you keep your home SIM in the device and roaming is on. If you use only a local SIM (and remove your home SIM), your home number will not work on that device until you put the home SIM back.

Can I use more than one option?

Yes. You can have your home SIM (roaming) and an eSIM or local SIM; set which one is used for data in settings.

An eSIM is a digital plan you install on your phone. You buy it online, get a QR code or link, and add it in settings. No physical SIM card.

Do I need a local address for a local SIM?

It depends on the country. Some require ID or address; others do not. Check local rules.

What if I visit several countries?

Use a regional eSIM or multi-country plan, or buy a SIM in the first country if it covers others. Roaming may cover multiple countries depending on your operator.

How do I avoid bill shock?

Use a plan with a known cost (eSIM or local SIM) and set it as default for data. Check roaming rates and consider disabling data roaming if you rely on another plan.

How to get mobile data abroad

You can get mobile data abroad in three main ways: use your home operator’s roaming, buy a local SIM in the country, or install an eSIM plan. This guide explains each option in neutral terms.

Definition

Getting mobile data abroad means having a way to use the cellular network for internet when you are in another country. The main options are roaming (your existing SIM), a local physical SIM, or an eSIM plan. Each has a different process and cost structure.

How it works

1. Roaming: Ensure your SIM allows roaming and enable it in device settings. Use data as usual; your operator bills you. Check rates before you go.
2. Local SIM: Buy a SIM at your destination (airport, shop); insert it into your unlocked phone; top up or choose a plan as required locally.
3. eSIM: Buy a plan online from a provider that supports your destination; receive a QR code or link; install the profile on your eSIM-capable device and set it as default for data.
4. For eSIM and local SIM, estimate your data and trip length so you choose a suitable plan.
5. Set the correct line as default for data so you use the intended plan and avoid surprise roaming use.

Benefits and limitations

Benefits: You have several ways to get data; you can pick the one that fits your trip and device. Limitations: Roaming can be expensive; local SIM needs an unlocked device and sometimes local ID; eSIM needs a compatible device.

Comparison with alternatives

Roaming: no new SIM, same number; often costly for data. Local SIM: good value, local number possible; need to buy on arrival. eSIM: good value, can set up before travel; need eSIM support. Choose by cost, convenience, and device.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to buy something before I travel?: Not for roaming. For eSIM you can buy and install before you go. For local SIM you usually buy on arrival.
What if my phone is locked?: A locked phone may only accept your operator’s SIM. You need an unlocked device to use a local SIM or many eSIM plans. eSIM from your operator may work on a locked device.
Can I get data at the airport?: Some airports sell local SIMs or have eSIM options. You can also install an eSIM before you fly and use it when you land.
How do I know how much data I need?: Estimate from your use: messaging and maps use less; video and streaming use more. Multiply by days and add a buffer. Many providers offer plans in steps (e.g. 5, 10 GB).
Will my home number still work?: Yes, if you keep your home SIM in the device and roaming is on. If you use only a local SIM (and remove your home SIM), your home number will not work on that device until you put the home SIM back.
Can I use more than one option?: Yes. You can have your home SIM (roaming) and an eSIM or local SIM; set which one is used for data in settings.
What is an eSIM?: An eSIM is a digital plan you install on your phone. You buy it online, get a QR code or link, and add it in settings. No physical SIM card.
Do I need a local address for a local SIM?: It depends on the country. Some require ID or address; others do not. Check local rules.
What if I visit several countries?: Use a regional eSIM or multi-country plan, or buy a SIM in the first country if it covers others. Roaming may cover multiple countries depending on your operator.
How do I avoid bill shock?: Use a plan with a known cost (eSIM or local SIM) and set it as default for data. Check roaming rates and consider disabling data roaming if you rely on another plan.

When this solution makes sense

Use this when you are planning how to get data for a trip. Match the option to your destination, length of stay, data needs, and whether your device is unlocked and eSIM-capable.

Last updated: February 8, 2025