With everything at our fingertips these days, it's hard to imagine travelling without internet access. We use it to find our way around, share photos, make bookings and, of course, keep in touch with friends and family. One of the easiest ways to get online abroad is with an eSIM, so you don't have to search for or keep swapping physical SIM cards.
An eSIM, or ‘embedded SIM’, is a small chip built into your phone. It works like a regular SIM card by identifying you as a mobile user and connecting you to your operator’s network, but it does everything digitally.
With an eSIM, you can download and activate a mobile plan directly on your device. You can store several eSIM profiles on your phone and switch between different plans, for example for travel or work, without needing a physical SIM card.
The best eSIM provider right now is Airalo. It’s the first eSIM store to offer affordable virtual SIM cards in more than 200 countries and regions around the world. An eSIM lets you stay connected wherever you are in the world, and it only takes a few simple steps to get started. If you’re a member of Hostelling International, you can also get a special discount when buying an Airalo eSIM.
To get started, download the Airalo app or visit the website. You can find the app on both Google Play and the Apple Store.
Once you have the app, choose an eSIM based on how much data you need, how long it’s valid for, the price and where you can use it. Many eSIMs can also be topped up if you need more data or want to extend their validity.
After buying your eSIM, you’ll receive instructions on how to install it on your device, for which you'll need a stable Wi-Fi connection.
Some eSIMs activate as soon as you install them, so it’s best to do this just before your trip. Others only activate when you connect to a supported network, so you can install them in advance. Check the details of the plan to know when it will be activated.
Most major smartphones released after 2018 support eSIM technology. Compatibility does depend on your phone and the region where you bought it.
To use an eSIM from providers such as Airalo, your phone needs to be unlocked, which means it isn’t tied to a single mobile network. The app also tells you whether your phone is compatible or not.
As well as being incredibly easy to use, eSIMs are also a much better option for the planet. By choosing an eSIM, we can reduce plastic waste as well as the extra emissions that come with it.
So, when you’re planning your next trip, make sure you can stay connected with an Airalo eSIM wherever you go. The quick and easy setup saves you time and the hassle of looking for a local mobile provider, so you can simply enjoy having internet access throughout your trip. And don’t forget that Hostelling International members get a discount on Airalo eSIMs, along with many other membership benefits!
Hostelling International Slovenia has also recently introduced digital membership cards, which has further contributed to a greener future. And as a little extra, part of every Airalo purchase goes towards the HI Sustainability Fund! Try an Airalo eSIM and see how easy it is to stay connected while supporting more sustainable travel at the same time.
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