What is an eSIM? How does it work?

An eSIM is a digital SIM that simplifies staying connected while traveling abroad, eliminating the need to swap physical SIM cards. More importantly, it means you can avoid expensive roaming charges. Simply download a plan and connect in a few taps!

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What are the benefits of a Local eSIM plan vs a Roaming eSIM plan

16 October 2025

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Staying connected abroad is easier than ever thanks to eSIM. But not all eSIMs are created equal, and understanding the difference between a local eSIM and a roaming eSIM can help you travel smarter, save money, and enjoy a smoother experience.

Sim Local stands out in the eSIM market because it gives you the choice between both: local eSIM plans that connect directly to top-tier networks in your destination country, and roaming eSIM plans for travellers who just need a simple way to stay connected.

What Is a Local eSIM Plan?
A local eSIM is an eSIM plan provided by a local mobile network operator within the country you’re visiting. It gives you the same network access and experience as local customers who live there, without needing to buy or swap a physical SIM card. Unlike a local customer, you also don't need to sign any contract or make any commitments. So you have all of the benefits of being a local customer without any hassle.

Think of it as arriving in another country and instantly connecting like a local, rather than as a roaming visitor. Learn more about local eSIM plans from our Head of Product Georgia in the video below:

Local eSIM vs. Roaming eSIM: What’s the Difference?

Most travel eSIM providers offer roaming-based eSIMs. These plans connect to local networks through third-party agreements, meaning your data is technically roaming even though you’re on an eSIM.

While the roaming plans setup offers wide coverage across many countries, it usually comes with trade-offs:

Higher data costs due to middlemen and international routing.
Slower or less consistent speeds, as your connection is not native to the local network so you may be de-prioritised by the network during busy times.
No local number, which means you can’t receive calls, texts, or one-time passwords (OTPs). Roaming eSIM plans are usually data only.

By contrast, a local eSIM plan such as from Sim Local connect you directly to the best local network operators in your destination. You get:

Full native network access for the fastest speeds and best coverage in your destination.
Local data rates, often can be cheaper than global roaming plans.
A local phone number, plus the ability to make and receive calls and texts.
That last point around a local phone number matters more than you might think. Having a local number helps with 2FA codes, taxi apps, restaurant reservations, and deliveries so it’s a small feature that makes being abroad even easier. Having a second phone number can be especially important to students, digital nomads and business travellers.

The Benefits of Choosing a Local eSIM Plan from Sim Local

1.Best Local Networks, Guaranteed

Sim Local only partners with top-tier network operators, ensuring you are always connected to the most reliable local service rather than vague info about roaming partners pre-purchase. Sim Local's local eSIM plans come from trusted names such as EE, Three, Orange, Lyca, DTAC, AU Japan, and Digicel, giving you peace of mind that you are always using a premium and established network.

2.Choice and Flexibility

Whether you are visiting one country or many, Sim Local lets you choose between local eSIMs or roaming eSIMs that cover multiple regions. We offer Europe eSIM plans and Global eSIM plans directly from Orange.