The airport SIM queue, the passport photocopy, the tiny chip that goes missing… the eSIM ended all that — but it doesn't mean it's the best option in every country. Here's the decision framework:
When does an eSIM win?
- Short trips (1-2 weeks): You activate it before landing and have internet the moment you step off the plane.
- Multi-country routes: A single regional plan (e.g. Europe 10 GB) ends the hassle of swapping SIMs at every border.
- Need for two lines: Your home number stays active on the physical line; bank SMS messages keep arriving — the least known but most valuable advantage.
When does a physical SIM win?
For long stays (1 month+) and heavy data use, the local operator's tourist package is almost always cheaper: AIS in Thailand, Globe/Smart in the Philippines, airport vending machines in Japan. Also, apps requiring a local number (Grab/GCash registration in some countries) work more smoothly on a physical line.
Choosing a provider
Marketplaces like Airalo, Holafly, Nomad and Ubigi do similar work; the difference is in the plan structure:
- Unlimited plans (Holafly-style): speed is subject to a fair-use quota; suited to video-heavy users.
- GB-based plans (Airalo/Nomad): for most travellers using maps + messaging + calls, even 1 GB/day is plenty; and it's cheaper.
- Watch point: some cheap plans disable hotspot sharing — if you'll work from a laptop, check before buying.
Setup checklist
- Make sure your phone is eSIM-capable AND unlocked.
- Do the QR setup at home on Wi-Fi, and switch on the data line when you land.
- You need to turn on "data roaming" for the eSIM line — this is the most common mistake.
- Turn off your main line's mobile data; otherwise you'll get a billed-roaming surprise.
Country-specific recommendations are written out in the "Practical Info" section of every city guide — check the Tokyo, Dubai and Bangkok pages.