When you travel abroad, you usually face three choices for mobile data: roaming, buying a local SIM, or using an eSIM. Let’s break down the pros and cons.

1. Roaming

• Pros: Easy, no setup needed, your number stays the same.
• Cons: Extremely expensive, often with hidden fees. Some carriers charge up to €10/MB.

2. Local SIM

• Pros: Usually cheap data rates in-country.
• Cons: You need to find a store, show ID, sometimes deal with language barriers, and you lose access to your original SIM unless your phone has two slots.

3. eSIM

• Pros: Instant setup, flexible plans, works across countries, no physical hassle.
• Cons: Requires an eSIM-compatible device (most modern iPhones, Samsungs, Google Pixels, etc.).

The Verdict

For short trips, roaming is rarely worth the cost. Local SIMs are fine if you’re staying in one country for a long time, but for most tourists, eSIMs are the sweet spot; convenience, flexibility, and affordability.

👉 That’s why Get Me Online’s eSIMs are perfect: you choose the plan, install it with a QR code, and you’re set for your whole trip.