E-Sims - A handy travel tool for Avios collectors
With the rise of remote work, flexible travel, and the sheer convenience of staying connected abroad, the eSIM is quickly becoming a game-changer for holidaymakers. But what is an eSIM, and why are more frequent flyers and British Airways Club members swapping out their traditional SIM cards for this modern mobile solution? From cost savings to reliable connectivity, here’s everything you need to know.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM, short for embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card built directly into your phone or device. Unlike physical SIM cards, which need to be manually inserted, an eSIM can be activated with a QR code or app (depending on your provider), removing the need to fiddle with plastic cards when you land in a new country.
This eSIM technology allows your device to switch between mobile networks or plans without changing hardware. For travellers, this means immediate access to local data and reduced roaming charges. If you’re wondering what an eSIM is or if an eSIM card could replace your old SIM, the answer is increasingly leaning towards yes.
Why use one?
The eSIM benefits for international roaming are wide-ranging. For starters, there are serious savings. Traditional roaming charges from UK networks can be extortionate, especially when venturing beyond Europe. Using an eSIM for travel allows you to tap into local rates without needing to visit a shop or queue at an airport kiosk.
This is especially beneficial for:
- frequent flyers, holidaymakers and British Airways Club membership holders looking to streamline connectivity
- European travel, where some roaming may still be capped, but not guaranteed
- USA or Asia travel, where roaming costs can escalate rapidly
With the ability to choose from local eSIM data plans, you only pay for what you need. Many travellers opt for eSIM cost comparison tools like esimdb (A dedicated eSIM database and comparison engine that lets users search by country, data amount, duration, and provider) to find the best deal for their destination and usage habits.
Other advantages include:
- Dual SIM functionality: keep your UK number active while using a local data plan
- Improved security: thanks to built-in eSIM security features
- Easy access to customer support and eSIM troubleshooting
For travellers working abroad, eSIM for business travellers or eSIM for remote work offers uninterrupted mobile access, enabling them to remain online across multiple countries without switching SIMs.
What phones are compatible with eSIMs?
Most modern smartphones now support eSIM functionality. Popular eSIM compatible devices include the latest iPhones (from the iPhone XR and newer), Samsung Galaxy models (such as the S20, S21, and S22 ranges), Google Pixel 3 and beyond, and a growing number of Android handsets.
When considering eSIM for iPhone or eSIM for Android, it’s worth checking the manufacturer’s website to see if your device supports eSIM activation. You may also need to ensure your device is unlocked to use international eSIM providers.
How to get one
Getting started is easier than ever thanks to a wide range of eSIM providers that cater specifically to holidaymakers, business travellers, and digital nomads. Brands such as SIM Local, Jetpac eSIM, Airalo, Nomad, Holafly, and BNESIM offer eSIM data plans for dozens of countries and regions, including Europe, Asia, and the USA.
The eSIM activation guide varies slightly depending on the provider, but generally involves downloading an app or scanning a QR code. The process takes a few minutes and is typically supported by helpful eSIM setup instructions for each platform.
Reward Flight Finder (RFF) Tip: Planning your Avios travel and need connectivity from the moment you land? Download your eSIM before your flight and activate once you arrive.
When an eSIM Might not be the best option
While the convenience and savings are compelling, eSIMs may not always be the most cost-effective option for short breaks. For example, on holidays in Europe lasting fewer than seven days, you may already have a roaming allowance with your UK mobile provider.
In such cases, check if your current plan includes EU roaming. If it does, a physical SIM might serve you just fine. But for longer stays, or if your plan has usage caps, eSIM advantages quickly outweigh traditional options.
Travellers should also be aware of potential eSIM disadvantages such as:
- Not all countries or networks support eSIM technology
- eSIM for cruise ships or remote destinations may have limited coverage
- Some devices still require software updates before activation
Who can benefit the most?
The flexibility of eSIM technology means it’s not just for the tech-savvy. It’s become essential for:
- Holidaymakers
- Business travellers
- Retirees abroad or budget travellers avoiding hefty roaming bills
- Airline staff, pilots, and cabin crew
- Those studying abroad
- Medical tourists
- Journalists, photographers, and videographers
The tailored plans let bloggers, conference-goers and eco-minded travellers buy only the data each trip really needs.
Ideal destinations for UK travellers using an eSIM
Certain destinations offer particular value when using an eSIM, especially for UK travellers keen to avoid high roaming fees and complicated SIM swaps. Here are some of the best places where an eSIM really shines:
United States
Traditional Roaming Charges:
- Three UK: Charges £5 per day to use your UK allowance in the USA.
- EE: Implements a daily fee ranging from £5 to £15, depending on the region.
eSIM Alternatives:
- Jetpac eSIM:
Offers a 3 GB data plan valid for 7 days at $5 USD (approximately £3.70). - Airalo:
Provides a 10 GB data plan valid for 30 days at $26 USD (approximately £19.20).
Japan
Traditional Roaming Charges:
- Three UK: Charges £5 per day under its Go Roam Around the World package.
eSIM Alternatives:
- Jetpac eSIM:
Offers a 30 GB data plan valid for 30 days at $29 USD (approximately £21.50). eSIMDB - Airalo:
Provides a 20 GB data plan valid for 30 days at $42 USD (approximately £31.10).
Thailand and Southeast Asia
Traditional Roaming Charges:
- Three UK: Charges £5 per day in countries like Thailand under its Go Roam Around the World package.
eSIM Alternatives:
- Jetpac eSIM:
Offers an Asia-Pacific 20 GB data plan valid for 30 days at $39 USD (approximately £28.90). eSIMDB
- Airalo:
Provides regional eSIMs covering multiple Southeast Asian countries, with plans such as 3 GB valid for 30 days at $13 USD (approximately £9.60).
Australia and New Zealand
Traditional Roaming Charges:
- Three UK: Charges £5 per day in Australia and New Zealand under its Go Roam Around the World package.
eSIM Alternatives:
- Jetpac eSIM:
Provides a Global 15 GB data plan valid for 30 days at $35 USD (approximately £25.90), covering Australia, New Zealand, and other countries. eSIMDB
- Airalo:
Offers a 5 GB global eSIM valid for 60 days at $35 USD (approximately £25.90), covering multiple countries including Australia and New Zealand.
United Arab Emirates
Traditional Roaming Charges:
- Three UK: Charges £6 per MB, which can accumulate rapidly with regular data usage.
eSIM Alternatives:
- Jetpac eSIM:
Offers a Global 15 GB data plan valid for 30 days at $35 USD (approximately £25.90), providing coverage in the UAE and other regions.
- Airalo:
Provides a 5 GB global eSIM valid for 60 days at $35 USD (approximately £25.90), covering multiple countries including the UAE.
Europe (Extended Stays)
Traditional Roaming Charges:
- O2: Allows free roaming up to 25 GB in its Europe Zone, after which charges may apply. O2 Deals
eSIM Alternatives:
- Jetpac eSIM:
Provides a Europe 10 GB data plan valid for 30 days at $14 USD (approximately £10.35), covering multiple European countries.
- Airalo:
Offers a 3 GB data plan valid for 30 days at $13 USD (approximately £9.60), covering various European countries.
By opting for eSIMs, travellers can achieve substantial savings compared to traditional roaming fees. It's advisable to assess data needs and compare available eSIM plans before travelling to ensure the most cost-effective solution.
Tips for Travelling with an eSIM
- Do your homework: Use eSIM cost comparison sites to find the best deal based on destination and data usage.
- Check your phone: Confirm that your handset supports eSIM and is unlocked for international use.
- Download before departure: It’s often easier to download and install your eSIM while connected to Wi-Fi at home.
- Watch for coverage: Ensure your provider offers eSIM coverage in your destination country or city.
- Save your QR code: Keep a backup of your eSIM QR code or profile details in case of emergency.
Final Thoughts
As Avios travellers plan their next trip, switching to an eSIM can offer a faster, safer, and more flexible way to stay connected abroad. Compared to traditional SIMs, eSIM for travel offers reduced costs, improved convenience, and broader international compatibility.
From eSIM for luxury travellers needing constant connectivity to eSIM for budget travellers wanting to avoid data traps, the benefits are undeniable. As eSIM providers continue to improve coverage and simplify setup, now is the time to make the switch.
Securing your BA Reward seat with RFF and pairing it with an eSIM ensures reliable connectivity from takeoff to touchdown—without the roaming fees.
