When you’re planning an international trip, one of the most important things to keep in mind is how you’re going to get Data/Wifi. There are a few options out there including purchasing an International plan with your phone carrier, an eSIM, pocket Wifi, or purchasing a physical SIM card when you arrive. In our opinion, the two easiest options are using an eSIM or pocket Wifi — but what’s better?
Keep reading for our own personal opinion and experiences when it comes to choosing an eSIM or Pocket Wifi when traveling abroad!
What is more convenient, an eSIM or Pocket Wifi?
- eSIM: Winner! eSIMs are digital SIM cards downloaded directly onto your phone. When we traveled to Vietnam and most recently to Japan, we used Airalo and it was super easy to activate!
- Pocket Wifi: While this is definitely less convenient, it’s still a great option. You’ll need to pre-order online or pick up the device upon arrival and make sure it’s charged at all times. We used a Pocket Wifi on our first trip to Japan from Japan Wireless and had a great experience.
Can you share an eSIM or Pocket Wifi?
- eSIM: Not as easily. You can technically use your phone as a hot spot, but depending on how much data you purchased you might end up depleting it if you share.
- Pocket Wifi: This is ideal for groups! You can share the Wifi signal with multiple devices, keeping everyone connected. Just make sure you have a portable charger or something on hand so it doesn’t die while you’re out exploring.
In what countries are they both available?
- eSIM: eSIMs can vary depending on the provider you’re getting them from. For example, we use Airalo and they are available in 200+ countries, but here are their most popular ones:
- Pocket Wifi: Similar to eSIMs, Pocket Wifis are available dependent on who you’re getting it from. I’d just do a quick Google search like “Japan pocket wifi” or “Europe pocket wifi” to see what’s available to purchase in the area you’ll be traveling to.
How much do they both cost?
- eSIM: Can be slightly more expensive, especially for larger data packages. However, some eSIM providers offer flexible data plans you can adjust based on your needs. For example, for our 10-day trip to Japan we purchased 20 GB for around $26, which was enough for us. If you run out you can also top-up during your trip.
- Pocket Wifi: Generally cheaper, particularly for groups splitting the cost and data allowances tend to be more generous. That said, if you use Japan Wireless it’s about $70 for unlimited 4G LTE for 10 days.
Other Things to Consider:
- Phone Compatibility: Not all phones support eSIMs. Usually, if you purchased your phone through a carrier directly it is considered ‘locked’, so an eSIM wouldn’t work. Double-check before your trip or call your carrier to confirm.
- Data Usage: If you’re a heavy data user (streaming, video calls), pocket Wifi’s larger data plans might be more suitable.
- Travel Style: Traveling solo? eSIM offers freedom and convenience. Traveling with a group? Pocket Wifi provides a shared hotspot.
The Verdict:
Both eSIM and pocket Wifi offer reliable internet access abroad. The best choice depends on your travel style and priorities.
- Choose eSIM for: Convenience, solo travel, flexibility in data usage.
- Choose Pocket Wifi for: Group travel, cost-effectiveness for heavy data users, sharing internet connection.
For our trips to Japan and Vietnam, we opted for using an eSIM, but a pocket Wifi works just as well! Hopefully some of our tips are helpful when you’re choosing what’s best for you. If you’re still in the midst of planning your trip, check out some of our other travel hacks:
Happy travels!
