For a trip over a few days, a travel eSIM is usually far cheaper than carrier roaming and works the moment you land. Roaming day-passes are fine for a one- or two-day stop. Either way, set it up before you fly.
eSIM: buy online, install at home, activate on landing. Data-only, cheap per gigabyte, regional plans cover multiple countries. Your phone must be unlocked and eSIM-capable.
Roaming: simplest — your number works — but day-passes add up and speeds may be throttled. Some plans (certain US and UK carriers) include free or cheap roaming in many countries; check yours.
Local SIM: cheapest for long stays; costs time at a kiosk and sometimes needs ID registration.
Keep your home line active for texts (bank codes) with data roaming off, and use the eSIM for data. Read our full eSIM guide for setup steps and traps.
Related questions
How much cash should I bring when traveling abroad?
Enough for the first day — a taxi, a meal, a tip — roughly $50–100 equivalent, then withdraw locally from a bank ATM with a low-fee card. Cards work almost everywhere in Europe, East Asia and the Gulf; carry more cash in Japan's small towns, rural Southeast Asia and parts of Latin America. Full answer →
Airline, airport and government rules change without notice. Treat this as a starting point and confirm with the airline or authority for your specific trip. Request a correction if something is out of date.