Setting Up Your eSIM for Travel in a Country with Limited Internet Access

Traveling to a country with limited internet access presents unique challenges for staying connected. Remote destinations often have unreliable networks, making it crucial to set up your eSIM correctly to ensure uninterrupted connectivity. This guide explains how to prepare your device, configure your eSIM, and optimize your mobile data usage for smooth travel in regions with limited internet infrastructure.

1. Why Use an eSIM in Countries with Limited Internet Access?

A. Advantages of eSIMs in Remote Locations:

• Multi-Network Options: eSIMs often provide access to multiple networks, ensuring better coverage in areas where some providers may have limited reach.
• Preloaded Data Plans: Set up your eSIM before departure to avoid needing internet access for activation upon arrival.
• No Physical SIM Dependency: Save time and effort by avoiding local SIM card purchases, which may not be readily available in remote regions.

B. Enhanced Connectivity Solutions:
eSIMs allow you to choose providers that offer strong coverage in specific areas, ensuring you’re always connected for navigation, communication, or emergency purposes.

2. Preparing Your Device Before Traveling

Before you travel, take the following steps to ensure your eSIM works efficiently in areas with limited connectivity:

Step 1: Verify Device Compatibility

• Ensure your device is eSIM-compatible. Popular models include:
  • iPhone XR and later.
  • Samsung Galaxy S20 series and newer.
  • Google Pixel 3 and later models.
• Confirm your device is unlocked for international use.

Step 2: Research Local Coverage

• Check the network options for the country you’re visiting. Some eSIM providers partner with multiple local carriers to improve coverage.
• Identify providers with strong coverage in rural or remote regions.

Step 3: Choose a Reliable eSIM Plan
Examples of suitable plans:

• Airalo: Offers plans for specific countries and regional packages.
• Nomad: Known for flexible data plans, even in regions with limited coverage.
• Holafly: Unlimited data plans ensure you don’t run out of internet access in remote areas.

Step 4: Download the eSIM Profile

• Install the eSIM profile before you leave, as internet access may be limited upon arrival.
• Ensure you have the QR code or activation details saved offline.

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your eSIM

Follow these steps to set up your eSIM for optimal connectivity:

Step 1: Purchase the eSIM Plan

• Visit the provider’s website or app.
• Select a plan tailored to your destination or regional needs.
• Complete the purchase and note the activation details.

Step 2: Install the eSIM Profile

• Use Wi-Fi to install the eSIM before your trip:
  • iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan, then scan the QR code.
  • Android: Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager > Add Mobile Plan, then scan the QR code.

Step 3: Set Up Default Data Settings

• Configure your eSIM as the default data provider:
  • iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data > Select eSIM.
  • Android: Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager > Mobile Data > Select eSIM.
• Disable data roaming on your physical SIM to avoid extra charges.

Step 4: Test the eSIM Before Departure

• Activate and test your eSIM at home to ensure it works as expected.

4. Tips for Staying Connected in Limited Internet Areas

A. Optimize Data Usage:

• Turn off background data usage for apps that aren’t essential.
• Use offline maps and download travel guides before arrival.
• Limit streaming and other data-heavy activities.

B. Use Wi-Fi Whenever Possible:

• Identify locations with Wi-Fi access, such as hotels, cafes, or public spaces.
• Use Wi-Fi for large downloads or data-intensive tasks.

C. Carry a Backup Solution:

• Keep your physical SIM as a backup for calls and texts.
• Consider a portable Wi-Fi hotspot as an alternative in case of poor eSIM coverage.

D. Monitor Signal Strength:

• Switch between networks available on your eSIM if one provider has weak coverage.
• Use the provider’s app to manually select a stronger network, if available.

5. Recommended eSIM Providers for Remote Regions

A. Airalo

• Offers extensive coverage with affordable plans for specific countries and regions.
• Example: $20 for 3GB (valid for 30 days).

B. Nomad

• Flexible data plans with a focus on reliable connectivity in remote areas.
• Example: $30 for 5GB (valid for 30 days).

C. Holafly

• Unlimited data plans to ensure you never run out of connectivity.
• Example: $64 for unlimited data (valid for 15 days).

D. Ubigi

• Pay-as-you-go plans ideal for light users in rural locations.

6. Example Scenario: Traveling in a Country with Limited Internet

Scenario:
A traveler is visiting a remote region in Nepal for trekking and needs reliable connectivity for navigation and emergency contact.

Solution:

• They purchase a Nomad eSIM plan for $30 (5GB).
• The eSIM is activated before departure, and the QR code is saved offline.
• Offline maps and travel guides are downloaded in advance to minimize data usage.

Outcome:
The traveler enjoys consistent connectivity in Nepal’s rural areas, ensuring safety and accessibility throughout the trip.

Traveling to remote destinations? Use our widget to compare and activate eSIM plans for consistent connectivity, even in areas with limited internet access.