Orbitelo
Travel

How to Get Internet Abroad

Four options, honest comparison. Here's exactly what works for most travelers and why.

Your options compared

Travel eSIM

Best overall

Pros

  • + No physical SIM to buy
  • + Install before you arrive
  • + Keep your home number
  • + Works in 190+ countries
  • + Instant top-up if you run out

Cons

  • – Requires eSIM-compatible device
  • – Wi-Fi needed for installation
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Local SIM Card

Good for long stays

Pros

  • + Cheap local rates
  • + Widely available

Cons

  • – Need to find a store on arrival
  • – Lose your home number
  • – Language barrier at SIM stores
  • – Different SIM for every country

International Roaming

Avoid if possible

Pros

  • + No setup required
  • + Keeps your home number

Cons

  • – Very expensive ($10–$15/day typical)
  • – Speed often throttled
  • – Surprise bills on return
eSIM vs Roaming →

Portable WiFi / Pocket Router

Good for groups

Pros

  • + Connect multiple devices
  • + No SIM needed per device

Cons

  • – Extra device to carry and charge
  • – Must be rented or purchased
  • – Can be lost or damaged

The verdict: which is best?

For most travelers — especially those visiting one country for 1–4 weeks — a travel eSIM is the clear winner. No store to visit, no new number to manage, instant setup from home, and transparent pricing with no surprise bills.

Local SIMs are worth it if you're staying in one country for a month or more and don't mind the airport/store setup. Roaming is almost never worth it unless your carrier offers a good daily rate and you only need data for a day or two.

Tips for saving on data abroad

  • 1Download offline maps (Google Maps, Maps.me) before you leave — uses zero data while traveling
  • 2Set apps to Wi-Fi only mode for heavy usage (streaming, social media)
  • 3Use messaging apps (WhatsApp, iMessage) over data instead of SMS
  • 4Download shows and music playlists on Wi-Fi before you fly
  • 5Turn off automatic app updates and background refresh while traveling

Get connected before you land

Orbitelo eSIM plans for 190+ countries. Install at home, activate on arrival.

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Related guides

eSIM vs Roaming: Full Comparison →eSIM vs Local SIM Card →How to Avoid Roaming Charges →How to Use eSIM Abroad →

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