You've just landed in a new country—new sights, new food, new adventures. But there's one modern traveler's question that pops up immediately: How do I get online without spending a fortune?

For Lykkers who love exploring while staying connected, balancing between eSIMs and local SIM cards is the ultimate travel hack.

Both options let you skip roaming fees and enjoy local rates, but each comes with its own perks. Whether you're a planner or a spontaneous wanderer, learning how to choose and use these smart data options can save you money, time, and plenty of stress on the road.

The Magic of eSIMs

If you're someone who values convenience and flexibility, eSIMs can be your new best travel companion.

What Exactly Is an eSIM?

An eSIM is a built-in digital SIM inside your smartphone or tablet—no plastic card, no swapping required. You simply scan a QR code from your provider, and boom—you're connected to a local network. It works in over 150 countries, and setup takes only a few minutes. You can even buy one before leaving home, so your internet works the moment you land.

Perfect for Multi-Country Trips

For travelers hopping between countries, eSIMs are a game-changer. Many eSIM services, like Airalo or Nomad, offer regional or global plans that cover multiple destinations. No more fumbling for SIM cards in airports or language barriers at kiosks—just activate your next plan through an app. It's ideal for digital nomads, long-haul explorers, or anyone chasing different time zones within one trip.

Easy to Manage and Recharge

One of the best parts about eSIMs is how easy they are to control. You can check your remaining data, top up instantly, or switch to another network—all from your phone. Some apps even show you network strength by region, helping you pick the most stable one. Plus, you can keep your original number active for calls and messages while using the eSIM for data.

When eSIMs Might Not Be Ideal

There's a small catch: not every phone supports eSIMs, especially older models. Also, while eSIMs are great for flexibility, they might cost slightly more per gigabyte than local SIM cards. So if you're staying in one country for several weeks or more, a traditional SIM might be the better deal.

The Value of Local SIMs

For longer stays or budget-conscious trips, buying a local SIM card is still the classic money-saver.

Why Local SIMs Still Win on Price

Local SIM cards almost always offer the lowest data rates. You're paying what residents pay, not tourist prices or international markups. Many countries have convenient prepaid plans that give you generous data allowances for a fraction of the roaming cost. Perfect for streaming, mapping, and staying in touch without worrying about your balance disappearing.

Where and How to Buy One

You can find SIM cards at airports, convenience stores, or local telecom shops. Some hotels even keep them at reception for guests. The best strategy is to wait until you reach a local carrier store—they'll help you choose a plan and set it up correctly. Bring your passport, as many countries require ID registration. Within minutes, you'll have local data ready to go.

Stay Alert for Scams and Overpriced Plans

At busy airports, you might encounter overpriced SIM stalls targeting tourists. Before buying, check official carrier websites to compare pricing and coverage. If a plan sounds too expensive, walk a bit further into town. Locals can often point you toward the best deals or share which providers have the fastest network.

Using Dual SIM for the Best of Both Worlds

Many modern phones support dual SIM setups—one physical SIM and one eSIM. That means you can keep your home number for verification messages while using local data for daily browsing. It's the ultimate combination for travelers who want both convenience and affordability without juggling multiple devices.

For Lykkers, staying connected abroad doesn't have to drain your budget. eSIMs offer unmatched convenience, perfect for frequent flyers and multi-country explorers. Local SIMs, meanwhile, give unbeatable value and reliability for longer stays. The smartest strategy? Mix both—start your trip with an eSIM for instant access, then switch to a local SIM once you settle in.

Wherever your travels take you, managing data wisely means more freedom, smoother navigation, and fewer surprises on your bill. Stay curious, stay connected, and let technology work for your adventures—not against them.