How will eSIM change the way you travel?

Post-Covid 19, international travel has become more reasonable and accessible than ever before. Putting the consumer at the center, online travel agents, low-cost airlines, and a variety of shared accommodation options are making travel more affordable and convenient, stimulating the growth of global tourism.​

One significant change that cannot go unmentioned is travel eSIMs, the game changer that helps redefine access to and use of the Internet.

What is eSIM?​

The "e" in eSIM stands for "embedded." This means that instead of being an integrated circuit located on a traditional removable plastic SIM card that can be inserted into a phone, eSIM consists only of a chip and software permanently embedded in the device. The functionality of eSIM is similar to that of the familiar physical SIM. Many new smartphone models are now equipped with eSIM, for example, iPhones from the iPhone XR onwards and Pixel phones from Pixel 2 onwards support this feature, as do many other Samsung models (Check the continuously updated list of devices that support eSIM here).

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Learn about eSIM

Why is the internet always essential when traveling abroad?​

Booking a ride via an app, using Google Maps to find your way to a restaurant, or paying for the aforementioned activities… all require an internet connection. Especially in unfamiliar places where we don’t speak the language, having a smartphone becomes even more crucial. Currently, the mobile usage rate accounts for about 67% of the global population, and statistics show that around 1 billion travelers bring at least one device that can access the Internet when traveling abroad. These devices are largely limited in their prominent features without the Internet, especially with 4G mobile data. Imagine trying to find out the exact fare of a taxi at the airport, contacting hotel reception, or making video calls to loved ones; without the Internet, you wouldn't be able to perform these tasks.

As mentioned, short trips abroad are no longer unfamiliar, so having a perfect experience when traveling internationally is greatly valued. Many people consider using public Wi-Fi, which, although common and free, carries the risk of being targeted by man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks since many Wi-Fi access points lack encryption, posing a significant threat when making transfers or shopping through this type of internet connection. Hotel Wi-Fi or café connections are safer alternatives, but their network speeds may be unstable and lack mobility. Mobile data helps us escape these inconveniences.

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Unstable internet connections will hinder your travel experience

How will eSIM change the way you travel abroad?​

SIM cards with Wi-Fi hotspots used to be essential hardware because of the need for internet access while traveling. However, eSIM, with similar functionality, can help you eliminate these hardware requirements. In other words, when you buy eSIM, you no longer need to order and wait for a SIM card or Wi-Fi hotspot to be shipped to you and incur shipping fees, and you certainly won't have to deal with the hassle of keeping these items. With eSIM, all you need to do is place an order, receive the QR code, and install the eSIM. Everything happens online quickly and conveniently.

Since eSIM is already integrated into your device, when you travel abroad, you don’t need to remove your SIM card from your phone to replace it with a new travel SIM. This allows you to access new networks and data while still receiving calls on your main number. It’s fantastic for those who frequently need to make phone contacts.

An increasing number of devices supporting eSIM are being produced, including some models of phones without physical SIM trays, such as the iPhone 14. In the near future, eSIM may become one of the main features of phones like Bluetooth or NFC technology, possibly making production costs even lower than for traditional physical SIMs.

Where to buy travel eSIM?​

Gohub is one of the largest providers of travel eSIMs in Vietnam today, offering network connectivity in over 100 countries. Currently, Gohub provides both data eSIMs and eSIMs with phone numbers for calls and text messages. By using Gohub's services, customers are guaranteed:

Reasonable prices​

• Cost savings compared to roaming fees or buying SIMs and eSIMs from foreign carriers
• Many options for packages, data capacity, duration… suitable for all needs
• 100% money-back guarantee if the product has defects from Gohub
• Consultation and support available anytime with a 24/7 customer care team
• Receive eSIM just 2 minutes after purchase
• If you run out of data during your trip, you can easily order more eSIM online and use it immediately

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Where to buy travel eSIM?

eSIM is still a relatively new concept, especially for those who are not very tech-savvy, so many people are hesitant to try it. In reality, using eSIM is very straightforward; if you have any questions, feel free to contact Gohub for dedicated support.

Additionally, many people have concerns about eSIM, such as the risk of being 'hacked' since it resembles software or causing battery drain… In fact, eSIM is just an electronic SIM and nothing more, and if you use eSIM alongside a physical SIM, the phone will receive both signals simultaneously, which may incur a slight increase in power consumption, but it is negligible and does not affect battery lifespan.

Buying and paying completely on your phone, with delivery times measured in minutes, a swift and convenient internet connection experience throughout your journey, and personal information security… that’s how eSIM will change the way you travel abroad by optimizing your experience. So, will you try this new technology on your next trip?