What is a travel eSIM? Pros & Cons

eSIMs are rapidly gaining popularity, especially among travelers, for their convenience and security. This article breaks down everything you need to know about travel eSIMs, helping you understand how they can simplify and enhance your connectivity while traveling.

I. What is a travel eSIM?

A travel eSIM is a digital SIM card that allows travelers to access mobile data, make calls, and stay connected in a new destination without needing a physical SIM card.

Unlike traditional SIM cards, a travel eSIM can be downloaded and activated remotely on compatible devices. This makes it an ideal solution for tourists who want hassle-free connectivity while traveling abroad.

For visitors coming to Vietnam, using a travel eSIM eliminates the need to search for local telecom shops or deal with SIM card installation upon arrival. It offers convenience, flexibility, and reliable internet for a smooth travel experience.

II. How does a travel eSIM work?

A travel eSIM is embedded within your device and does not require a physical card. It works by downloading a digital profile provided by a service provider. Once the profile is downloaded, your phone can authenticate on the local network just like it would with a physical SIM.

III. What are the pros of using a travel eSIM?

Using a travel eSIM offers several advantages for tourists, including:

• Instant Connectivity: You can activate your eSIM before your trip, ensuring instant internet access upon landing in Vietnam.
• Cost-Effective Plans: Travel eSIM providers offer affordable data and calling packages tailored to short-term visitors, avoiding expensive international roaming charges and unexpected fees.
• Flexibility: You can easily switch between different eSIM plans or even add another if you travel to a neighboring country, making it ideal for multi-country trips.
• Hassle-Free Experience: There is no need to visit stores, carry multiple SIM cards, or swap out SIM cards when traveling. Everything is done digitally, saving time and effort.
• Retain primary number: A travel eSIM allows you to keep your primary phone number active while using a local Vietnam eSIM for data and calls. This ensures you don’t miss important messages or calls on your original number.
• Bonus for Vietnam travel: A travel eSIM is particularly beneficial for foreigners visiting Vietnam because it helps them avoid language barriers when buying a physical SIM card upon arrival. Additionally, they don’t have to navigate unfamiliar rules or deal with local telecom providers, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable experience.

IV. What are the cons of a eSIM for travel?

An eSIM can be trickier to activate for beginners and is not compatible with every phone or carrier plan.

The main drawback is limited availability: support varies by brand, country, and network. Some destinations and carriers still don’t offer eSIM service, so if you buy a regional plan, confirm that every country on your itinerary is covered before you purchase.

V. Are eSIMs cheaper than a regular SIM for travel?

It depends. An eSIM plan starts far below the charge for international roaming with your home SIM card. For example, Vietnam eSIMs starts at just $5 for 5GB, far below the $10-$15/day that many U.S carriers charge for international roaming.

However, compared with a local physical SIM that you buy after landing, the eSIM price is often a bit higher. In Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City you can pick up a physical Viettel or Vinaphone tourist SIM for about 120.000 – 150 000 VND (~$5–$6) with 30 GB of data. For eSIM plans on Vietnamesim.com, is about $5-$7 for 5-10 GB. But, you only pay a small premium for instant delivery and no need to hunt for a kiosk.

► Buy Vinaphone and Viettel eSIM for Vietnam travel.

VI. Who should use an eSIM for travel?

A travel eSIM is suitable for a wide range of travelers, including:

• Short-Term Visitors: Tourists visiting Vietnam for vacations or short business trips who need temporary connectivity.
• Digital Nomads: Remote workers who require reliable, high-speed internet to stay online while exploring Vietnam.
• Frequent Travelers: Those who visit multiple countries and want the flexibility of switching between eSIM profiles without carrying physical SIM cards.
• Tech-Savvy Users: Travelers with compatible devices who prioritize convenience and quick setup.

If you value ease of use, reliable connectivity, and avoiding the hassle of physical SIM cards, a travel eSIM is the perfect solution.

VII. How to get and use a travel eSIM for Vietnam?

Getting a Vietnam travel eSIM is simple and straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Choose a Provider: Visit vietnamesim.com to explore available eSIM plans tailored for tourists.
2. Check Device Compatibility: Ensure your smartphone or tablet supports eSIM functionality. Most modern devices, such as iPhones and flagship Android models, are compatible.
3. Purchase a Plan: Select the plan that matches your travel needs and budget. Plans typically vary based on data limits and duration.
4. Receive Your eSIM: After purchasing, you will receive a QR code or activation instructions via email.
5. Install your eSIM: Scan the QR code or follow the instructions to install the eSIM on your device.
6. Activate the plan: Upon arrival in Vietnam, you turn on data roaming and your device will connect to the local network.

This process allows you to stay connected without needing to search for a local SIM card provider upon arrival.

VIII. FAQs