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📶 Mobile data abroad: eSIM, local SIM card or roaming? The guide

Updated on 7 Nov 2026

A roaming bill can quickly spoil a trip. The good news: there are now several simple ways to get mobile data abroad for a small price.

1. Within the EU: your plan is often enough

In the European Union (plus Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein), "roam like at home" applies: you use your usual EU plan at no extra cost, within a fair-use data allowance set by your operator. Check that allowance before leaving. Switzerland, the UK and Türkiye are not always included.

2. Outside Europe: watch out for roaming

In North Africa, Asia or the Americas, mobile data on a standard plan can be very expensive. Turn off "data roaming" in your phone settings until you have chosen a solution.

3. Travel eSIM: the most convenient option

An eSIM is a virtual SIM card you install by scanning a QR code. You buy it before leaving, activate it on arrival and keep your usual number for calls and texts (WhatsApp keeps working as normal).

• Pros: no shop to find on arrival, data as soon as you land, prices known in advance;
• Check first: your phone must support eSIM and be unlocked (most recent smartphones are);
• Tip: install the eSIM at home on Wi-Fi, and only switch it on once you arrive.

4. Local SIM card

For a long stay, a SIM card from a local operator is often the cheapest. Expect a visit to a shop, an ID document and sometimes a wait. Ideal if you stay several weeks or need a local number.

5. Free Wi-Fi, as a backup

Hotels, cafés and airports often offer free Wi-Fi. Handy for big downloads, but avoid online banking on public networks: use mobile data instead.

In short

Within Europe: your plan. Short trip outside Europe: a travel eSIM. Long stay: a local SIM card. You will find an eSIM offer in the "Prepare your trip" block of our flight pages.