How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe – In today’s connected world, it’s more important than ever before to be able to access our network at any time. Fortunately, these days we have plenty of different options, Verizon, T Mobile, AT&T, and Straight Talk.
You can still use your cell phone while traveling to Europe if you plan properly and use all of the tools at your disposal. One word of advice: Don’t just use your plan without speaking with your provider. You could rack up hundreds, or even thousands of dollars in roaming fees. Compare this to something simple like a $10 a day extra fee — just by a bit of pre-planning.
Avoid sticker shock with your next phone bill by being smart and planning in advance.
Many travelers prefer to use their own cell phones while traveling to Europe. Some people even like to bring their other mobile devices for email, communications, watching videos, browsing the Web and so on.
The good news is, it isn’t that difficult to use your smartphone in Europe (or Traveling to Asia) to access the Internet, make calls or text. The following explains everything you need to do.
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Using My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe: Talk To Your Current Provider
Your current provider probably has some kind of international plan that will allow you to use your cell phone while traveling to Europe. People go on vacations all of the time, so it is not outside of the realm of possibility that they have some sort of package that would work best for you.
Your Smartphone cell plan provider in advance and speak with them about your options. Make sure that you cancel your international plan when you return home! Tips for Traveling Internationally
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
If you are from the United States, Canada, Mexico, or another country, traveling with your smartphone in Europe means additional fees, be it for calls, text or other types of data access.
If you are going to use your own phone, decide first how you intend to use it (for calls only, for text, the web, etc.). You can use your regular plan for calls, text and web browsing, but it will be more expensive.
There are international service plans you can sign up for a lower cost, i.e. flat fee or limiting you to a specific number of megabytes.
Before doing any of these, make sure first that your phone does work in Europe (you can check with your carrier), and then check the international rates.
Before you go to Europe, activate your phone’s international service or call your carrier and ask them to turn on international roaming for data, voice, text or whatever service you plan to use.
Once your phone has been set up, you can access Wi-Fi in Wi-Fi hotspots, which are pretty common in the continent.
What type of phone do I have
The easiest way to find what type of phone you have and what phone model, is to check the settings in your phone.
- Go to the Settings or Options menu, scroll to the bottom, and click on ‘About phone’.
- The name and model number of your Smartphone will be listed.
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
If you want to use smartphone data plans and texting in Europe, keep the following things in mind.
- First, Europe uses the GSM (“Global System for Mobiles”) system.
- All American carriers use GSM except Verizon and Sprint that use CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access).
However, this should not be an issue since most smartphones today can connect to both network systems.
European SIM Card
The easiest way to use data plans and text services in Europe is to use international roaming as suggested above. If you find it too expensive, you can sign up for an international data plan which is something your carrier and other services will offer.
The cost will depend on how you plan to use your mobile device, and it’s certainly going to be more expensive if you’re going to watch movies or YouTube videos.
Plan ahead for e-Learning success as well, including a language while you are on holiday. Even a simple language translator website will be helpful for specific words and phrases as you need them.
Get a Local SIM Card
Depending on where you’re traveling, it might make a lot of sense to get a local SIM card. In order to install your SIM card, you will need to unlock your phone. Many carriers will allow you to do this as long as the phone is paid for.
If your carrier pushes back on unlocking your phone, you can always have it unlocked once you arrive in Europe. There is no real standard of excellence for having your phone unlocked by a local shop, so make sure that you check around and get solid references before you go this route.
Once your phone is unlocked you can use your local SIM card with ease! Make sure that you keep your American SIM in a safe spot because you’ll need it when you return home.
Using a European SIM Card
The simplest and most practical option is to use a European SIM card, and you can get these from various European mobile carriers. In most cases you’re going to have to unlock your phone so it can use the SIM card from other carriers.
The majority of US smartphones are locked, and you may want to get in touch with your mobile company for assistance on unlocking it. If you’d rather unlock your smartphone yourself, download software that unlocks smartphones and use their codes to unlock your device.
There are several services like these available online and the process is fairly straightforward:
- Pay the fee
- Provide some info about the phone on the website
- The service will email you the code to unlock your mobile
- Once your phone is unlocked, you can look for a SIM card in mobile phone stores, electronics counters and in some cases, vending machines.
These SIM cards cost anywhere from 4 to 8 euros, and they don’t come with any commitment or contract. If you want a SIM card with data access good for a month, expect to pay around 13 to 25 euros for the card.
Before you buy, take a look at your smartphone and make sure that the card is compatible. Some mobile devices like the iPhone use a different type of nano-SIM card, so make certain the card fits your phone.
Talk to the clerk and check the rates for calls and to and from the European countries you will be visiting. Use the same approach for texting.
- Once you’ve got a SIM card that works with your smartphone, ask the store personnel to install it and do a test call.
- Turn your mobile on, enter the PIN and if necessary switch the language to English.
- Don’t forget to record the PIN number and ask how to check the credit balance.
In some European countries, your SIM card may have to be registered along with your passport for security reasons. Follow the instructions and after an hour or two you’ll be able to use it.
If you run out of SIM, you can get one in any mobile phone store and tell the salesperson how much credit you want. The clerk is either going to give you the credit over the phone or you will be given a voucher with instructions.
Best Data Plan WiFi Hotspot Devices for Travel
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
One of the most common mistakes people make is thinking that you’ll need a costly voltage converter to charge your mobile. In fact, the majority of mobile devices, tablets and laptops have battery chargers that can work on 220 volts used in Europe and countries in the world, as well as 110 volts (the US).
Cell phone chargers can work with different frequencies from 50 Hertz to 60 Hertz. Unless your mobile device specifically says to use a converter, don’t use it because it could actually damage your mobile because it already has a converter.
If you want to know if your cell phone has dual voltage capabilities, read the words on the charger.
- If your cell phone has dual voltage you will see something like “Input 100 – 240V, 50 – 60 Hz.”
- Then, if your mobile phone is dual voltage, you still need to use a plug adapter, but not a voltage converter.
Before going on a trip, you have to keep in mind that all countries have their own electrical system, and that will determine what type of plug adapters you have to use.
In Italy for instance, the majority of outlets are compatible with two round prongs, but bathrooms have three-pronged grounded outlets.
If necessary, you should purchase a multi-country plug adapter if you’re not sure which type of adapter to use. Better yet, you should research the plug adapters that are used in the countries you’re going to visit. Thanks to the Internet, this should be easy, and if you’re not really sure you can always send an email to the website and get clarification.
If you’re only going to bring a cell phone, a single adapter will do. However, if you’re bringing a laptop, tablet, and other devices, it’s best to have several adapters as your hotel room might only have a few electrical outlets available.
In some cases you also have to plug an adapter into another before you can use it. For instance, you can put plug a two-pronged adapter onto a three-prong European adapter to make it work.
No matter how many plug adapters you buy, make sure the plug fits in properly.
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
There’s no lacking of prepaid cell phones in Europe, but when you buy a GSM prepaid wireless and/or a SIM card, make certain call time is included.
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
If you’re in Germany, you can get a Handy for less than 60 euros which includes a refillable SIM card with prepaid minutes. The set up is usually pay per minute but the cost varies per country.
Almost always, however, it’s cheaper compared to international roaming.
Another option is to buy a GSM phone before leaving for Europe, but if you decide to do this, check the various services online to make sure you get your money’s worth. Once you’ve got your cell phone you can take advantage of the free Wi-Fi available throughout the continent.
Set Up a Mobile Hotspot
If you don’t need to make phone calls, you can always invest in a mobile hotspot. Companies like TEP Wireless, Skyroam, and Keepgo all have mobile hotspot technology.
A hotspot will enable you to log into the internet without using local Wi-Fi. If you want to browse the internet safely and rapidly, a mobile hotspot is really the best way to go. Many accommodations offer Wi-Fi for free, but in hotels there is usually a fee.
The Wi-Fi signal also varies, as in some places it’s great and in others it is less than ideal, which is the reason why many prefer to get a data plan.
Generally speaking, the speed is almost always good enough to send email and browse the web, but it’s not as reliable for watching HD films or video. If you have a dedicated data plan however this won’t be a problem.
All these prepaid cell phones can take advantage of Wi-Fi wherever they’re available, and in most cases, your best bet will be a café. Starbucks and McDonald’s also have Wi-Fi.
You can also get Internet access in popular tourist destinations as well as city squares, some public transit hubs and even trains and buses. In some cases, you will need to register and get the network password to gain access.
As you can see, you can use your cell phone while traveling to Europe in many ways.
With a good data roaming plan plus free Wi-Fi in certain locations, you should have no problem keeping in touch with those around you anywhere they are. Remember, if you have a prepaid cell phone and need more minutes, you can easily buy more airtime.
There was a time when using your mobile device and cell phone while traveling to Europe was expensive, but with all the options now available, you can save money without compromising signal quality.
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam vs Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
One of the first things that you need to consider before embarking on your next whirlwind vacation to Europe is how you will stay connected. There are plenty of providers out there, but TEP Wireless, Skyroam, and Keepgo are the top three choices.
Let’s explore TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo when traveling to Europe.
Keepgo
Keepgo is a fan favorite these days and it’s easy to see why. It offers 4G service that can be used on any corner of the planet, and you can access Keepgo through a variety of different devices.
Get Keepgo SIM cards for your existing smartphone or smartwatch, or use one of their hotspot devices. The data is a little bit on the expensive side, but it is always reliable and you can access it from almost anywhere in the world, making Keepgo a great option for business travelers.
If you need less connectivity and are worried about your pocketbook, the prices might be a little too steep for you!
Skyroam
In the battle of the hotspots, Skyroam clocks in at more affordable but less speedy than Keepgo. It’s a great option for those who want to make sure that they have the internet at their fingers, but don’t necessarily need top speeds.
With coverage spanning the world, Skyroam will relieve you from the hassle of having to tap into unreliable or insecure WiFi when you want to hop online.
It’s a legacy player for a reason, and has amassed something of a cult following since it first came onto the scene. The only real downside is that you won’t be able to get the speeds that you would with a company like Keepgo. If you need service for business purposes, you might be better off looking elsewhere.
TEP Wireless
TEP Wireless has hotspot devices that work with your smartphone or watch. You can also buy or rent a Teppy device, which acts as its own mobile hotspot and lets you get internet anywhere. One of the beautiful things about TEP Wireless is the sheer volume of different options that you have!
When it comes to fast internet, TEP Wireless is a great option, up to a point. They do start to throttle your speed after a certain amount of internet usage, which could become a problem for those who want to use it for business purposes.
As with Skyroam, TEP Wireless can’t compete with Keepgo for the speediest coverage. Alternately, it is a cost-effective option, and TEP Wireless has been around for a long time, so you know that they are a solid company to work with.
So, who wins the battle of TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo when traveling to Europe? It all depends on exactly what you’re looking for from a wireless service provider.
Each option has different strengths and weaknesses, but all of them cover the vast majority of the planet and will work in a pinch if you need wireless service right away.
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
You can also rely on local WiFi for your internet usage. Use caution when selecting which WiFi options you will tap into. Try not to put in too much personal information, especially passport numbers, photos of identification, etc., and don’t access banking data or other sensitive websites when you’re tapped into public WiFi.
Assume that everyone can see what you’re doing because that is probably the case!
There are plenty of chatting apps that allow you to communicate with loved ones back home. Skype, WhatsApp, and Messenger are just a few options.
Public WiFi could be a good option for people on shorter trips who just need a little bit of internet for places of interest, hours of operation, maps/directions, language translation and look up, currency questions, and other general travel information.
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for Your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
FREE iPad / iPhone Travel Apps – I’ve had my iPod Touch for about two months now, and I’m falling helplessly in love with it more and more every day. It’s my personal assistant, I use it for just about everything.
From reading books, storing recipes and workout exercises to converting currencies, booking hostels and checking the bus/train timetables.
I suppose you could call me an ‘iPad NERD’ – if there is such a thing…
Yeah, I admit I have also found some awesome applications which ONLY work for the iPhone, so I won’t lie and say I never wish I had one of those as well – but then again I like my cellphone, it’s pink!
Anyways, today I am going to share with you the best FREE Travel Apps out there right now! These are free iPad / iPhone travel apps.
Hostel Hero
This is an application that finds you the best deals by searching through every hostel website, all over the world. You have Hostelbookers, Hostelworld, etc. all in one place. From here you can book your stay from anywhere. I love it, very easy and simple.
Hostelworld
If you are an avid HostelWorld fan and just want to book through them, they have their very own application for you to book your stays.
Stanza
With this on your iPad you’ll never have to carry another of those brick-like-heavy books in your backpack ever again! You can download hundreds (probably more) of books for FREE on your iPad (yes, in all genres).
Every Trail
Finds many outdoor activities (walking, mountain-biking, skiing, etc.) for you to do, anywhere in the world
What Knot
Shows countless types of knots and how to make them step by step, a skill that can be crucial to know when backpacking, camping, or hiking through the jungle etc. Trust me, you never know when you’ll need it!
Skype (only for iPhone):
Now there really is a cheap way for you to call to other countries.
iTranslate
Translates whole sentences into heaps of different languages. The good thing about this one is that it doesn’t only translate to or from English but from all kinds of languages: Hebrew to Korean, or Hindi to Galician, it’s your choice 😉
Spending Light
Keeps track of your spending and income, how much you spend per day/week/month/year, and what you spend it on (food, clothes, entertainment, beer, etc.). It’s really good to keep you from asking, ”What happened? Where did all the money go??” and can help keep you on track with your travel budget.
Convert Everything
Convert Everything is a complete currency converter. What more do I need to say? This way you know exactly how much your paying anywhere in the world and can quickly determine the value.
Kayak
Now you can search for flights and hotels with the best online travel search aggregates right from your iPad!
Lonely Planet
The application is free, and you get a Phrase book and one Guide for free. But the rest you’ll have to buy. But if you plan to bring a Lonely Planet guide, I highly recommend you pay for the digital version and bring it in your iPad. It sucks having all that extra weight when you could have it all in your hand.
Google Earth
I love looking at the earth globe – it really gets me into a happy state. I get so excited seeing all these places I want to visit, all cultures I want to see. So what is better than Google Earth?
Wi-Fi Finder
This way you don’t have to run around all streets and corners desperately looking for a Wi-Fi connection, the JiWire application does the job for you.
If you know of anymore apps which I might find useful on my travels, please link me below in the comments! 🙂
messaging apps for traveling
Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe?
Your options for being able to use your phone while traveling Europe, including how to see if you can get an international plan, how stay connected to 3G by getting a local SIM card, and why a pocket Wi-Fi device might be a good option.
Europe EU recently ended cell phone roaming and roaming charges. Stay connected while on your Europe trip.
Do I need an international phone plan for Europe?
Unless you travel to Europe frequently and your stays are longer than a vacation, it is simpler, more cost effective and easier to set up your own cell phone with international calling and international data plan through your existing cell phone service provider.
Do US cell phones work in Europe?
If you have an iPhone 4s or newer, then yes. But you still need an international roaming plan from your SmartPhone cell plan provider. If you have an older phone or a non-iPhone, it depends on the phone and your carrier.
Europe uses a cell phone system called GSM (Global System for Mobiles) but Verizon and Sprint use CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access). All the other major US carriers use GSM, so if you use a mobile service provider other than Verizon and Sprint, you should be able.
Best mobile phone plans in Europe for tourists 2022
Do you already know wich Mobile phone plans in Europe to contract? We will show you the best chips for you to use your mobile phone at will, with high- speed internet, where to buy, how it works and all the tips that will make a difference in your trip. If you are planning your trip to Europe know that to use your mobile abroad you need to activate your international roaming on your current SIM card or buy a prepaid international SIM card.
How does works the mobile phone plans in Europe ?
International roaming is when you use your mobile phone in a country other than your home country. Because you’re outside your coverage area your carrier charges you roaming fees, which is what we call international roaming. Although each operator has its specific way of charging you, they all have one thing in common: the excessive cost of the fees. This may seem like the easiest way to do it, however it is the worst choice you can make since the bill gets very expensive due to the absurd prices. So, buying your prepaid international chip is the best option, you can buy in the country you are going to travel, or before boarding, the advantage of buying in advance is that when you are on the plane going to your destination in Europe you can use the internet at ease. As there are a few chips on the market, we’ve prepared a list of the best options:
- International Chip Mysimtravel
- Lyca Mobile Chip
- Chip Free
- Chip Orange
International Chip Mysimtravel
Do you already know the best chips to travel to Europe? The International Mysimtravel chip can be purchased in advance online in an easy way, after the purchase is just wait and they deliver it to your home, you can choose the internet package of your choice, prices range from 30 to 98 dollars.
The simplest package costs 30.08 USD it comes with the eSIM electronic chip plus credits for 2GB during 30 days, accepted in 35 countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Switzerland, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Spain, Finland, France, United Kingdom, Guadeloupe, Greece, Croatia, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Iceland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Latvia, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Sweden, Slovenia, Slovakia, United States and Germany.
The chip has a quality signal, works in the most distant cities of the interior and even on ships, through it you can do everything with your phone, access social networks, use the chip as a car GPS, voice and sms services, among other functions. The chip has prepaid 4G internet, keeps your number and WhatsAap local (optional), various chip formats (regular, micro and nano), manual explaining how to activate it, 24 hour chat to help you choose the best package, service in case of any problem, application to track your balance, how much you used the package and if you want to buy more you can reload on the spot. Moreover, it does not lose validity, when you make the first purchase you pay the value of the chip plus the value of the plan, it’s all built into that first value, but the next time if you want you can reload this same chip and pay only by the value of the plan, so a tip for you to save on your next trips: save your chip.
Lyca Mobile Chip
Lyca Mobile is a mobile virtual network operator that operates in 60 countries, has SIM cards and low-cost international calls, is available for purchase online, its cheapest plan is the Lyca S package for €9.9 with unlimited national calls, unlimited international calls to 50 countries, unlimited national sms, EU roaming, mobile internet 15GB up to 30 days. If you want to recharge or add a new package you can do so quickly and conveniently through the official Lyca Mobile website, where you will also find a manual, contact assistance, FAQs, the conditions of use of the packages during your trip in Europe and more. The operator promises to offer the flexibility, freedom and connection you need for a low cost. To activate your Lyca mobile SIM card you need to add your SIM card, enter your new number or PUK code along with the digit ICCID that can be found on the SIM pack, then click the “continue” button and enter your personal information.
Chip Free
Free is a new mobile and internet service provider in France, launched by telecommunications company Iliad in 2009. The operator has three mobile plans ranging from €2 to €19.99. The cheapest plan of €2 is for a month and offers 2h calls to mobiles and landlines in mainland France and departments abroad, and also to landlines of 100 destinations, unlimited sms/mms and 50MB 4G internet in France, abroad it offers 2h calls of 50MB/month package. This is a simple plan and focused on the French territory, so if you want more internet or this is not your destination choose the 9.99€ package that offers 4G internet 70GB in France and 10GB in Europe, unlimited calls and sms / mms in Europe. Free provides some services included in all packages, they are:
- Telephone assistance
- Rejection of anonymous calls from mobile services, voicemail, etc.
- Free and unlimited Wi-Fi throughout mainland France
- Receipt of invoice via e-mail
- Directory and prospecting
The operator is recommended by 94% of its subscribers, offers customer service every day from 7am to midnight on the phone 3244 or by video with Face to Free, has free shops in more than 130 places in the French metropolis, offers quality 4G network (more than 99% of the population covered) and advantageous prices for the whole family.
Chip Orange
Orange is a French operator, one of the largest in France. With the Orange chip you will be able to visit more than 40 countries in Europe, whether they are part of the European Union or not. All plans allow you to make local and international calls to mobile phones and landlines, the amount of hours will depend on your package, share the internet and send SMS to anywhere in the world. The cheapest package is 2.99€, offers 2 hours of calls in France and
European areas, unlimited sms/mms in these same regions, 100 MB of mobile internet usable in mainland France and Europe. The site offers exclusive promotions, 100% secure payment, free delivery, pick up in store within 2 hours and 24 hour support.
Traveling to Europe is guaranteed to take many selfies to post on instagram and now that you know how to use your phone in European territory, the two possible options: activate your international roaming or buy a prepaid international chip. The international roaming although more practical is more expensive, so we suggest in the article the purchase of an international chip, which will offer you several services and the best with a low price.
With the best international chips (Mysimtravel, Lyca Mobile, Free, Orange) and the cheapest plans you can choose the best chip and plan for you, which is very relative, because although the four options are good it will depend on your final destination, number of days you will spend traveling and your personal preference (internet, connection or sms/mms), tell me “Which option you liked best? Besides the chip there are other essential items for your trip to be perfect, for this you’ll need international travel insurance, be up to date with the COVID-19 vaccine and vaccination card, mandatory health form and more, to learn about these items visit What you need to travel to Europe in 2022. Still not sure which country to visit? Come and discover 5 cities to visit in the European winter.
Using A Cell Phone In Europe Made Easy and Affordable
What you need to know about how to save money using a cell phone in Europe, SIM cards, and data roaming.
Here are our best travel tips for getting fast, reliable data in Europe as you travel.
Using A Cell Phone In Europe: How to Save Time, Money and Hassle
Having fast, reliable cellular data on your mobile phone is a must when traveling Europe.
Are you wondering “Can I buy a phone in the US and use it in Europe?” The short answer is yes, you can use your own phone and phone plan, but it might be incredibly expensive.
Can I use my American or Canadian cell phone in Europe?
Almost all modern mobile devices are compatible with European cellular networks, so you should be able to use your phone in European countries without interruption. So yes, you can buy a phone in the US and use it in Europe.
However, you may get dinged pretty hard with unwelcome, and expensive, roaming fees from your home cell phone plan.*
If you just want to use your American smartphone and buy a local SIM card, you’ll also need to make sure your phone is unlocked however more on that later.
*Some budget cell phone plans don’t allow European roaming, like our cell plan in Canada with Public Mobile (though they do offer USA-based roaming add-ons).
Can I use my Verizon cell phone in Europe?
Smartphones on the Verizon network in the USA should work perfectly well in Europe, using Verizon’s international roaming plans.
The problem is that Verizon’s roaming tends to be pretty darn expensive. You can get the Verizon TravelPass plan, which works in over 185 counties. The TravelPass plan currently costs $10 per line per day, which is great for really short trips, but adds up pretty quickly if you’re gone for a week or longer. On this international plan, you’ll get unlimited calls, unlimited texts, and whatever data allowance you had on your domestic plan.
There’s also an International Monthly Plan for longer trips that lets you add a bundle of minutes, texts and data. The International Monthly Plan costs $100 /line per month, which is definitely cheaper than the TravelPass for longer trips. You’ll get 250 minutes, 1000 sent SMS, unlimited received SMS, and 5 GB data total. Sure, 5 GB of data sounds like a lot for day to day things however Netflix says you’ll use 1 GB of data (per device) for every hour you stream a Standard Definition show.
Will my cell phone work in Europe on AT&T?
Your AT&T phone should work perfectly well in Europe, using an AT&T roaming plan. However, AT&T doesn’t offer a lot of roaming options, and the AT&T International Day Pass is a little expensive for my taste. You’ll pay $10/day for the AT&T International Day Pass, which gives you unlimited data, talk and text in over 210 destinations.
How to unlock a smartphone
If you want to avoid expensive roaming fees, you can remove your American or Canadian phone’s SIM card and replace it with a European carrier’s SIM card. For most travelers, this may be the best way to use your phone in Europe.
Back to basics: What’s a SIM card?
A SIM card is basically a thumbnail sized card or chip in a slot in your phone. Your SIM card is what stores your phone number and cellular data plan. If you remove your phone’s SIM card, you’ll no longer be able to make phone calls, or use your cellular data plan, but you can still use your phone on Wi-Fi (you just won’t have a cell number or data). You can remove your SIM, and replace it with a European SIM, which will give you a European cell number and data plan (assuming data is included).
International travel eSIM for Europe
Before we get into the basics of SIM cards, let’s talk about one of the best ways to save money with a local SIM in Europe: eSIMs.
An eSIM is exactly what it sounds like: an electronic SIM card. However, an eSIM is embedded in your phone (meaning it’s not removable), and it can be reprogrammed easily.
An eSIM lets you change your wireless carrier, data, or service plan through software, without removing a physical chip, and inserting a new one. Most times, all you need to do is scan a simple QR code to switch your eSIM from one carrier to another. An eSIM can also let you use two different cell lines on the same device (like a home and work line), or let you switch between different plans depending on where you are in the world.
Several companies offer eSIMs for travelers, such as Holafly.
However, not all phones are compatible with an eSIM unfortunately, though it is arguably the best way to use cell phone in Europe. All three major US carriers support eSIM on recent iPhone and Google Pixel models, but not on Samsung models sold in the USA or Canada. So, when choosing an International eSIM for travel, first make sure that your phone is compatible.
Here’s what’s cool though: iPads and some laptops support eSIMs. Apples iPads have an easy eSIM interface, where you can simply choose your plan and provider from a menu on the iPad. Some laptops from Dell, Asus, Acer, Lenovo, Samsung and Microsoft laptops support eSIM, but Apple laptops don’t support eSIM at this time.
Important: your phone must also be carrier-unlocked to use an eSIM.
Using an eSIM in Europe is pretty simple for most users. First, make sure your device is eSIM compatible, then buy the eSIM online, and finally scan a QR code and turn on data roaming from your settings. When signing up for a eSIM service, you’ll also need an email address to get your QR code.
After that, you can call and message all your existing contacts on a bunch of free chat providers like WhatsApp or Skype, as if you’re in the same country. You can even keep your original SIM for phone calls if you wanted to continue using your existing provider.
Buying a Physical SIM card for Europe
If your phone does not support eSIM technology, you still can buy a physical SIM card for your travels. You may need to swap out your existing SIM card, but if you’re lucky, your phone will have two SIM card slots.
If you get a foreign SIM , make sure:
- your phone has a SIM card slot, and that the European SIM you buy fits your phone.
- your phone is unlocked. If your phone is locked, you will have to choose from European cell phones rather than use your own.
So, how do you choose the best SIM card for Europe with data?
There’s a little more to choosing a good European SIM card than simply picking the cheapest option.
First, determine which size of SIM card your phone takes.
There are regular, micro, or nano sized SIM cards. Most European SIM card companies carry all three sizes, so that shouldn’t be a problem. A European SIM card for an iPhone will likely be nano or micro.
Next, buy extra texting, talk or data plans that you need.
It is possible to buy a bare bones SIM card without any data. If this happens, you may have a cell phone with a number, but no added minutes, no texting, and no internet data plan. Be sure you get the data and/or text and talk plan that fits your needs. The good news is that cell service in Europe is generally great, and high speed data plans for travelers are usually affordable.
Finally, insert your SIM card in your phone.
The location of the SIM card slot is different for different phones. However, it’s generally a small and fiddly process that requires good lighting, and a table so you don’t drop the SIM on the floor. SIM cards are tiny, and easily lost and damaged. You’ll likely need a paper clip, pin, or special tool to open the SIM card slot however all phones come with one and if you can’t find yours just grab a paperclip or you can buy them online fairly cheaply.
Looking for other options for how to use your cell phone in Europe?
If you don’t want to pay for roaming fees from your home carrier, and don’t want to fuss with getting a European SIM card, another option is to only use wifi on your phone.
While it can be tricky to get high speed Wi-Fi when traveling, it’s definitely possible. You can use apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Google Chat to get the most out of your mobile phone when traveling, rather than relying on a data connection.
To travel Europe using Wi-Fi only, just use Wi-Fi at hotels, airports, restaurants and even malls or you can bring along a Wi-Fi hotspot, like the Solis or Glocalme. A lot of apps these days from Netflix to YouTube to Spotify to Google Maps also allow offline saving so you while you can’t connect with family and friends while on the go like with an eSIM or regular SIM card, you can at least enjoy your media on the go.
Some European companies even rent cell phones in Europe, however since most modern North American phones will work fine with European carriers, it may just be easier to take your phone overseas and use an eSim.
Source https://aswetravel.com/how-do-i-use-my-cell-phone-while-traveling-to-europe/
Source https://travelstoeurope.com/travel-tips/mobile-phone-plans-in-europe-in-2022/
Source https://www.thebarefootnomad.com/travel-tips/using-a-cell-phone-in-europe/