Should you get an eSIM or a traditional plastic SIM for your next trip? For most travellers the eSIM wins on speed and convenience, but there are a few cases where a physical SIM still makes sense. Here’s an honest comparison.
Quick comparison
| Travel eSIM | Physical tourist SIM | |
|---|---|---|
| Setup | Minutes, from your sofa | Queue at a kiosk or shop abroad |
| Keep your number | Yes — runs alongside home SIM | No — you swap your card out |
| Buy in advance | Yes | Usually only on arrival |
| Local phone number | Data only (usually) | Often includes a local number |
| Very long stays | Great for weeks | Can be cheaper for months |
When an eSIM is the better choice
If you’re travelling for a few days to a few weeks, want to be online the moment you land, and value keeping your usual number for calls and verification codes, an eSIM is the clear winner. You avoid roaming charges, skip the airport queue, and can carry plans for several countries at once — ideal for multi-stop trips.
When a physical SIM still wins
A local physical SIM can be worth it if you need a local phone number (for a rental, a delivery, or a local service), if you’re staying for several months where a local prepaid contract is cheaper, or if your phone doesn’t support eSIM. In those cases, buy from an official carrier store rather than an airport kiosk for the best rates.
Our recommendation
For the vast majority of trips, a travel eSIM like Saily is faster, cheaper than roaming, and far less hassle. Check your device compatibility, then find the right plan in our destination guides.
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