Exploring Asia: Is Travel eSIM Better Than Buying a Local SIM?

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Traveling to Asia is exciting! From the tasty street food in Thailand to the peaceful temples in Japan, there’s so much to explore. But before you take off, there’s one important question to answer: Should you use a travel eSIM or buy a local SIM card in Asia?

Let’s look at both options and help you make the best choice for your trip.

What Is a Travel eSIM?

A travel eSIM is a digital SIM card that works without needing to insert a physical chip into your phone. Many new smartphones already support eSIMs. You can download a data plan from a provider before you even get to the airport.

With a travel eSIM, you don’t have to search for phone stores or wait in long lines after landing. It’s fast, simple, and ready to go.

What Is a Local SIM Card?

A local SIM card is a physical card you buy in the country you’re visiting. You take out your regular SIM card and insert the local one. These SIMs are often cheaper than eSIMs and offer more local options like calls, texts, and data.

But buying a local SIM card can be tricky. You may need to show your passport, fill out forms, and understand local phone plans—often in another language.

Pros and Cons of a Travel eSIM

Pros:

Easy to set up before you travel

No need to remove your regular SIM

No long lines or paperwork

Works as soon as you land

Cons:

Usually more expensive than local SIMs

Not all phones support eSIM

Limited call and text options in some countries

Pros and Cons of a Local SIM Card

Pros:

Cheaper data plans in most countries

Better local coverage and speeds

Includes local phone number for calls and texts

Cons:

Harder to buy if you don’t speak the language

May require ID or passport

Can take time to find a store and activate it

Which Is Better for Traveling in Asia?

It depends on your needs. If you want something quick and simple, a travel eSIM is a great choice. It's perfect for short trips and light internet use like maps, social media, and messages.

If you plan to stay in Asia for a longer time or want to make local calls, a local SIM card might be better. Countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia offer cheap SIM plans with large amounts of data.

How to Use a Travel eSIM in Asia

Here’s how easy it is to use an eSIM:

Check if your phone supports eSIM.

Pick a travel eSIM provider (like Airalo, Holafly, or Nomad).

Choose the country or region in Asia you’re visiting.

Buy the plan and scan a QR code to install it.

Turn on the eSIM and you're connected!

No need to visit a phone shop or wait to connect. Your internet starts right when you land.

How to Buy a Local SIM in Asia

Buying a SIM in Asia usually follows this process:

Visit a local mobile store or booth (airports usually have them).

Show your passport for registration.

Pick a plan that fits your needs (data, calls, texts)

The staff installs and activates the SIM for you.

Start using your phone right away.

Some popular providers in Asia are AIS (Thailand), Telkomsel (Indonesia), and Jio (India). Most plans are very affordable, often costing just a few dollars.

Travel Tip: Always Stay Connected for Health and Safety

Having internet access isn’t just for fun—it's also important for your health and safety. If you need medical help while traveling, having your phone connected means you can:

Look up dentist Medicaid options near you

Find a dentist that accept Medicaid

Learn more about Medicaid benefits if you or your child need care

Even while abroad, it’s helpful to stay updated on your healthcare options. While Medicaid is a U.S. program, staying in touch with your records and providers can help you plan your next steps when you return home.

What Is Medicaid and How Does It Help With Dental Care?

Medicaid is a U.S. program that helps low-income families get health coverage. It’s especially helpful for children. Dentist Medicaid programs make sure all children get full dental care as part of something called EPSDT (Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment).

This means Medicaid covers things like:

Dental checkups

Cleanings

Fillings

Tooth extractions

Emergency dental care

If you're back in the U.S. and need a dentist that accept Medicaid, you can search online or call your Medicaid provider for help. It’s important to keep your child’s teeth healthy, especially after a long trip full of sweets and snacks!

Tips for Choosing Between eSIM and Local SIM

Here’s a quick way to decide:

Need/Question

Best Option

Short trip (under 2 weeks)?

eSIM

Long stay (over 2 weeks)?

Local SIM

Want fast setup?

eSIM

Want to save money?

Local SIM

Need local phone number?

Local SIM

Have an eSIM-compatible phone?

eSIM

Want a backup plan?

Bring both

You can even use both! Keep your regular SIM or eSIM for international data and add a local SIM for local calls.

Conclusion: Stay Smart and Connected in Asia

Traveling to Asia is a fun adventure, and having the right mobile plan makes it even better. Whether you choose a travel eSIM for ease or a local SIM card for value, staying connected helps you explore, stay safe, and even check in on things like your health or dental care back home.

Remember, Medicaid helps children with dental needs, and you can always look up a dentist that accepts Medicaid when you’re back. Keep your smile healthy no matter where your journey takes you!