When was the last time you tried to claw your SIM card out of its tiny tray? And what are the odds that you had a hard time (and felt super annoyed) while doing it?

For some, swapping out a SIM card is synonymous with traveling abroad, especially for longer periods of time. That tiny pin that’s hard to keep track off gets dusted off and put to use, all to swap in a rarely used SIM for the destination you are headed to. 

There are many changes (happening very quickly) in the tech space, particularly with smartphones. Among those has been the evolution away from physical SIM cards towards eSIMs.

The technology is still new, and many of us are scratching our heads, wondering if it could ever work for us. And the good news is that yes, it can.

eSIMs are something that will make your mobile life so much easier, especially when traveling. So let’s look at what the heck an eSIM is, how you can use it at home or abroad, and why it may work for you and help you stay connected (and avoid pesky roaming fees). 

aloSIM Review: Using eSIM Mobile Data for Travel

eSIM: What it is & How it Works

So what is an eSIM, anyway?

It’s an embedded version of your physical SIM card – the small microchip that gets inserted into your phone that carriers use to identify your phone on their network, connects you to a signal, and allows you to send and receive calls, texts and connect to data networks. 

An embedded SIM, known as eSIM, does all of that, and more. It acts as a digital SIM, meaning it has all the same functions as a physical SIM, plus the ability to switch between multiple plans or carriers.

Let’s break it down even further – it allows you to change carriers or plans without swapping your old SIM out, and a new one in.

eSIMs and Travel

This ability to swap plans comes in handy for anyone using multiple plans at once (perhaps for business, or a variety of other reasons), or for those of us who want to stay connected while traveling abroad. 

Using an eSIM on your eSIM-compatible device means you can, via your eSIM, buy international prepaid data and use it on your phone, without being charged roaming fees by your primary plan.

There are many providers out there, including aloSIM, which we’ll dive into more in our review below. 

aloSIM: Who are They?

With plans offered in 130+ countries, it’s easy to see why so many people are already using aloSIM as their eSIM mobile data provider, even with the app having just launched in June 2022. 

Its data plans start at $4.50, offer from 1GB to 30GBs of data, and span from 7 to 30 days. There’s a lot of choice, meaning you can find the amount of data and length of package that fits your needs best. 

And if your travels will take you across several regions, aloSIM also offers regional packages in areas including several Europe regions, Asia, the Caribbean, North America and South America.

These packages work nicely for travelers visiting several destinations who want to stay connected across borders. 

The Benefits of eSIM Mobile Data

With different price points and plan options available, aloSIM’s packages are affordable. They’re certainly cheaper than your carrier’s daily roaming fees, its pay-per-use fees and its roaming packages (which often cost $16 a day). 

It’s easy to use, fast to top up and its connection is seamless, as it keeps you connected to the fastest local networks. This means you can search up directions whenever you need, video call your loved ones during your trip, or get help in emergency situations. 

Having eSIM mobile data while away means your connection is there when you need it, saving you stress and helping you enjoy your trip even more.

Are There Any Cons?

The only major con to eSIM mobile data, at the moment, seems to be if your device is not compatible with eSIM.

While the majority of new phones support the technology, anyone using an older phone model may not be able to use eSIM.

The good news here is that when you do get a new phone, it will likely support the technology. If it’s something you want to try, be sure to check ahead of buying that it’s compatible.

And while some may feel initially intimidated by the eSIM install/activate process, aloSIM’s support team is available 24/7 via chat and email, meaning you can connect and get immediate support no matter your time zone. 

How to Buy an eSIM (and Mobile Data) from aloSIM

The buying process is also quick and easy.

You can use either aloSIM’s website or free app (available for download in the App Store and Google Play).

You can also use either to top up your data if you ever need more. 

Final thoughts

aloSIM might be new to the eSIM game, but they’re already a heavy hitter.

With affordable plans and a robust support team (and a ton of resources in their blog and website’s FAQ section), they have everything you need to get started with eSIM.

Check them out if you’re traveling and want to stay connected.