Staying Connected Abroad

Roaming vs eSIM vs local SIM — what's cheaper

Travel eSIM (Airalo, Nomad, Holafly)

Cost

1 GB ~$4–5, 10 GB ~$20–30, unlimited ~$40+/week

How to set up

Buy an eSIM online → scan QR → activate on arrival. Works only on eSIM-compatible phones.

Best for: 1–2 weeks, multi-country trips (regional plans)

Does my phone support eSIM?

  • iPhone XS і новіші
  • Samsung S20+ і новіші
  • Google Pixel 3 і новіші
  • Більшість флагманів 2020+
  • Check: Settings → Cellular → 'Add eSIM'

Before departure

  • 1Check if your phone supports eSIM (Settings → Cellular)
  • 2Disable 'Allow data switching' — otherwise it may charge roaming
  • 3Dual SIM: keep the UA line for SMS (banks, OTP), eSIM for data
  • 4Download offline maps and documents at home on Wi-Fi
  • 5Airalo/Nomad often have regional plans (Europe, Asia) — cheaper than per-country

Prices are approximate. Airalo/Nomad regional eSIM plans cover the whole EU with one package — best for multi-country trips. Keep your UA number active for bank SMS (minimal bundle).

About Staying Connected Abroad

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