UK holidaymakers travelling abroad could reduce mobile phone costs significantly by using a digital alternative to traditional roaming. According to consumer finance experts at MoneySavingExpert (MSE), some travellers are paying up to £15 per day in roaming charges outside the EU, when a cheaper solution is often available through eSIM technology.
The advice comes as international travel becomes more common and mobile data usage increases, with many users relying on maps, messaging, and streaming while overseas.
Roaming
Mobile roaming charges apply when a phone connects to a foreign network outside the user’s home plan. While EU roaming is still included in some UK contracts, many providers now exclude destinations outside Europe or apply daily fees.
MSE highlights that charges outside the EU can be particularly expensive. Some networks impose daily fees that can quickly add up over the course of a trip, especially for longer holidays or business travel.
eSIM
An eSIM is a digital version of a physical SIM card. Instead of inserting a plastic chip into a phone, users download a mobile plan directly onto their device using a QR code or activation code.
According to MSE, eSIMs allow travellers to access local or international data plans without changing their UK number or physically swapping SIM cards. The system works by temporarily routing mobile data through another provider while abroad.
A typical example cited includes international data packages such as 10GB of US data for around £11 to £18, depending on the provider and plan duration.
Setup
One of the main advantages of eSIM technology is the simplicity of setup. After purchasing a plan online, users usually scan a QR code to install the profile on their phone.
Once activated, the eSIM can provide immediate access to mobile data in the destination country. There is no need to visit a shop, wait for delivery, or replace an existing SIM card.
MSE also notes that many modern smartphones already support the technology, including most iPhones since around 2018, Google Pixel devices, and Samsung flagship models released from 2020 onwards.
Compatibility
Users can check whether their device supports eSIM by dialing *#06#. If an Embedded Identity Document (EID) number appears, the phone is compatible.
This quick check has become a standard way for travellers to confirm whether they can use digital SIM services before buying a plan.
Costs
The financial difference between roaming charges and eSIM plans can be significant. Traditional roaming can cost up to £15 per day on some networks, even for limited data usage.
By comparison, eSIM plans often provide larger data allowances for a fixed one-off cost. For example, a single purchase may cover several gigabytes of data for a full month, depending on the provider.
| Option | Typical Cost | Data Allowance | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roaming (outside EU) | Up to £15/day | Limited (e.g. 500MB/day) | Daily billing |
| eSIM travel plan | £11-£18 (example) | Around 10GB | Up to 30 days |
Experience
MoneySavingExpert founder Martin Lewis has also shared his experience using an eSIM while travelling outside Europe. He reported paying for a monthly data package and found it more cost-effective than daily roaming fees charged by his UK network.
He also noted that the connection quality was strong, with reliable 4G coverage throughout his trip. According to his account, the larger fixed data allowance removed the need to monitor daily usage limits closely.
Europe
Despite the advantages, experts caution that eSIMs are not always the cheapest option for short trips within Europe. Many UK mobile contracts still include EU roaming at no extra cost or for a small daily fee.
For shorter stays, particularly under a week, paying for roaming through a home provider may still be more economical depending on the contract terms.
Outlook
As mobile usage continues to rise among travellers, eSIM adoption is expected to increase. The technology offers flexibility, especially for long-distance travel outside Europe where roaming fees are highest.
However, the best option still depends on destination, trip length, and mobile contract terms. Comparing roaming rates with eSIM packages before travel remains essential for avoiding unnecessary costs.
FAQs
What is an eSIM?
A digital SIM that lets you activate mobile data without a physical card.
How much can roaming cost outside the EU?
Some networks charge up to £15 per day for data usage.
How do I check if my phone supports eSIM?
Dial *#06# and look for an EID number on your screen.
Are eSIMs cheaper than roaming?
Often yes for longer trips, but not always for short EU visits.
