The Importance of eSIMs for Travelers

Why Use an eSIM?

An eSIM, short for embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card integrated into a device. It can be downloaded and activated via a QR code or an app, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card and avoiding roaming surprises or the risk of losing a card. According to the global technology intelligence and consulting firm ABI Research, it is projected that eSIM sales will increase by 11% in 2025 compared to the previous year, reaching over $544 million. For any destination and regardless of the chosen virtual card, the key is to prepare in advance, compare plans, and activate the eSIM before your flight. This way, your mobile will be ready to connect upon landing, allowing you to enjoy your trip without digital interruptions.

When and Where to Use an eSIM

Andorra and Switzerland: Winter Getaways

Many snow enthusiasts and winter sports lovers are already planning their trips to destinations like Andorra or Switzerland. These two countries serve as excellent examples of when to use an eSIM, as they fall outside the European Union’s free roaming agreements. Switzerland boasts one of the best mobile coverage networks in Europe, so if your selected eSIM provider has agreements with Swiss operators, you can enjoy good speed and connectivity for ski trips or excursions across the country. It is advisable to choose plans with solid 4G/5G coverage and activate the card before crossing the border to avoid access issues.

If you plan to travel to Andorra, any of the virtual card options we have mentioned will allow you to enjoy a few days in the country without incurring additional phone expenses. Additionally, the principality has implemented various solutions to facilitate tourist connectivity. For instance, Grandvalira, the largest ski resort in the country, integrates the sale and download of an Andorran eSIM into its app. Saily is highly recommended for travel to these two European nations due to its cost-effective plans and user-friendly interface. Holafly also offers unlimited data plans that can be quite appealing.

Morocco: Variable Coverage Outside Cities

Morocco is a leading tourist destination in Africa, attracting a significant number of visitors each year. Major telecommunications operators in the country provide good coverage in cities and tourist hotspots, but rural or mountainous areas, such as the Atlas Mountains and deserts, have less coverage. If your travel is confined to cities like Marrakech, Fez, Casablanca, or along the coast, a national eSIM may suffice. However, if you plan an adventure route that takes you deeper into the country, it is advisable to check virtual cards with local plans that guarantee access to a Moroccan operator’s network. Users recommend Holafly for exploring the African nation, as it connects to networks such as Maroc Telecom and Meditel. For moderate use, Maya Mobile, Saily, and Airalo are more economical alternatives.

United States, Japan, Turkey, and Other Classics

Beyond Europe and North Africa, countries like the United States and Japan continue to be major destinations for millions of international travelers. eSIMs have become essential allies for moving freely without surprises on phone bills. In the United States, the mobile infrastructure is vast and of high quality. eSIMs work seamlessly on most devices, providing access to 4G and 5G networks from major carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. If you are traveling for work or from coast to coast, a global or regional eSIM is typically more convenient than purchasing a local one in each state. It is also important to note that some rural areas or national parks may have lower coverage, so downloading offline maps and ensuring your data plan is activated before flying is wise.

Saily is the most recommended virtual card by travelers for its versatility and price, although Holafly, Airalo, and Nomad are also quite popular. In Japan, mobile coverage is excellent in urban areas and tourist destinations but becomes more limited in rural or mountainous regions. eSIMs are particularly useful for those planning to move between multiple cities—such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, or Hiroshima—without relying on public Wi-Fi. Many local companies also offer specific plans for tourists that include access to high-speed 5G networks. It is essential to activate the eSIM before arrival and check device compatibility, as some phones purchased outside Asia may face network restrictions. Any card works reliably in Japan, with Saily, Holafly, Airalo, and Ubigi being some of the most utilized options. There are also local providers like Sakura Mobile or Micro eSIM Japan that can be a good alternative for purchasing in-country.

Turkey, on the other hand, requires special mention. In 2025, the country’s authorities restricted access to certain international eSIM providers, leaving many travelers without the ability to download or activate their virtual cards upon entering the territory. To avoid complications, it is advisable to activate the eSIM before traveling and verify that the provider’s app or website functions correctly from your country of origin. Any of those mentioned work without issues when activated, and according to user reviews, YeSIM is one of the few that can be activated from Turkey.

Other popular destinations such as Mexico, Thailand, Australia, or Canada provide a similar experience: good urban coverage and reliable eSIM services, with slight variations based on local infrastructure.