How to use a smartphone overseas?

When traveling abroad, one of the most important things to prepare is internet communication.
Especially when you are going to an unfamiliar place, internet search and map search are tools you definitely want to use.


If you want to enjoy comfortable internet access while traveling abroad, there are several ways to do so.

  1. Use free Wi-Fi
  2. Rent a mobile Wi-Fi
  3. Buy and replace SIM cards
  4. Buy and set up an eSIM

We will introduce the advantages and disadvantages of each of these.

  • 1. Use free Wi-Fi

    By using free Wi-Fi available in shops, hotels, and other places, you can easily connect to the Internet without incurring any communication costs.
    The disadvantages are that the stability and security of communication is unstable.
    It cannot be used outside.
    If it's extremely slow, it's stressful.

  • 2. Rent a mobile Wi-Fi

    Currently, the most popular way is to rent a mobile Wi-Fi. You reserve it in advance and pick it up at the airport or by mail. Another advantage is that it can be used by multiple people (subject to restrictions).
    The disadvantages are that it is a rental, so there is the hassle of borrowing and returning it, there is a risk of losing it, and it may run out of charge.

  • 3. Purchase a new SIM card and replace it

    This method involves purchasing a SIM card that is compatible with your destination and removing and replacing the SIM card currently inserted.
    It is easy to purchase at convenience stores and airports, so many people buy it before traveling.
    The disadvantages are that it is a hassle to insert and remove, the card is small so there is a risk of losing the SIM card you were originally using, and it becomes unusable once the capacity is used up.

  • 4. Buy an eSIM

    An eSIM is a SIM card built into a smartphone, and after purchasing it, you set up the internet on your smartphone by scanning a QR code.
    The advantage is that there is no need to rent or replace cards, and you can purchase and set it up online, so it can be activated immediately.
    Another great thing about it is that if you run out of space you can just buy more.
    The disadvantages are that there are smartphones that do not support eSIM, and it can be confusing to set it up until you get used to it.

eSIM is becoming mainstream

Even when comparing the advantages and disadvantages of each, we often hear people say that eSIM is the easiest to use these days!

It's really convenient to have nothing physical and to be able to solve everything online.
It's hassle-free, incredibly fast to use, and reasonably priced.
There are no problems such as initial defects in the machine or scratches on the SIM card making it unusable.

Although eSIM is still not very well known, in the United States, an increasing number of new smartphones are already compatible only with eSIM.
It is likely that eSIMs will become mainstream in the future.

At GoodeSIM, you can buy eSIM cards at low prices, making them convenient for overseas travel!

Supports over 126 countries.
Since it is run by a Japanese company, the support is also excellent.
You won't have a situation where you make an inquiry and they don't respond at all!

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If you want to try it out,

First, check whether your smartphone supports eSIM.
For iPhone, iPhone XS and later are compatible.

How to check if your device supports eSIM

  1. On the call screen, dial "*#06#"
  2. Available if EID is displayed
Click here to learn how to set up eSIM