It might be time to join the eSIM revolution. Millions of others are. According to statistics, eSIM providers were set to grow 85% in 2025, generating a staggering $1.8 billion in revenue worldwide.
Of course, you shouldn’t just adopt something because everyone else is, so let’s consider a scenario. You slide into your favourite café, laptop open, latte in hand…and you then realise your next destination is around the corner.
You’ll be hopping countries, juggling time zones, Zoom calls, and Skype chats. So, will you grab a local SIM card in each place you land or go for an eSIM? This fact might help you choose: one is more nomad-friendly, the other still has its merits.
What’s an eSIM (and what’s a local SIM card)?
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital version of the SIM card that resides on your device, eliminating the need for a physical chip swap.
A local SIM card is the physical one you buy in the destination country, pop into your phone, and use like a local. Simple and tangible.
So if you hate dealing with tiny plastic cards, queues at airport kiosks, or wondering whether your phone is unlocked, eSIMs might already be winning on convenience.
Cost-effectiveness: Long stay vs. short stay
The nomad timeline really matters when deciding which to use.
Short Stay (2-3 weeks):
Say you’re doing a 2-week European tour (Paris, Barcelona, Berlin). If you buy a local SIM in each country, you’ll face multiple activation steps and potential language/registration hoops. An eSIM pre-loaded with multi-country Europe data can streamline things. One comparison found that travel eSIMs cost more than local SIMs in many places, but are still far cheaper than roaming.
For example, your eSIM might cost $20 for 5 GB across multiple European countries, while local SIMs might cost $10 each in each country.
Long stay (3 months or more):
Say you’re landing in Thailand for 3 months to live, work, and explore. A local SIM card in Thailand often offers very generous data plans at local rates. One travel blog noted that while eSIMs are great for convenience, for long-term stays, a local SIM often wins purely on price. So, for a long stay in one country, a local SIM is a budget champion.
Instant Activation & Convenience
With an eSIM, you buy the plan online, scan a QR code, install it, and you’re good to go. No local shop, no searching for the “best” airport kiosk.
With a local SIM, you may face language barriers, registration issues, the need to find a compatible kiosk or shop, or even extra airport convenience fees.
If you’re landing in one country and staying put, a local SIM’s hassle is manageable. However, if you’re hopping between multiple destinations in short order, eSIM convenience makes a significant difference.
Multi-Country Travel Flexibility
If your itinerary is “fly into Bangkok, then Cambodia, then Vietnam, then back to Thailand” over 6 weeks, you want flexibility. Many travel eSIMs are designed for regional or multi-country plans, letting you stay connected as you cross borders.
By contrast, a local SIM is usually tied to one country or local carrier. If you cross into another country, you might lose service, or you’ll need to buy a new SIM card.
Other Practicalities
As a nomad, you probably still want your home number for calls/texts (or at least one way to be reached). With eSIMs, many let you keep your primary physical SIM in your phone (if your device supports dual-SIM or eSIM + physical SIM) while using the eSIM for data abroad.
Local SIMs, if you insert them and replace your physical SIM, may temporarily disable your home number, unless you are carrying two phones or a dual-SIM device.
If your work requires you to be reachable on your usual number (for clients, Slack, Zoom), that becomes a real convenience.
Device Compatibility & Coverage Issues
One caveat – does your device support eSIM? Check that your phone is unlocked and compatible with eSIM technology.
Additionally, depending on the destination, local networks or local SIM cards may offer stronger coverage or cheaper local plans. Always check the destination specifics.
The Verdict
So, summing up with some rough rules:
- If you plan to stay in one country for 2-4 months and want the lowest cost, opt for a local SIM.
- If you are hopping between multiple countries or staying for short periods (days to weeks) and value convenience, consider using an eSIM.
- If you’re working remotely and need to keep your home number active, travel often, or dislike dealing with local SIM logistics, eSIM is your friend.
Nomads already know there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. But when you consider what your actual needs are in terms of flexibility, convenience, cost, and time, you’ll land on the right choice for you.
Apple says eSIM technology and providers are available in 190 countries worldwide, so you’re sure to find a provider that can connect you. Your SIM should be an essential part of your remote-working gear, along with things like noise-cancelling headphones and a laptop.
Next time you land, boot up your phone, order your doppio, install the eSIM, or pop in a local SIM – whatever fits your travel style.
