Last updated on October 21st, 2024 at 05:17 pm

Traveling should be all about exploring new places, tasting new foods, and immersing yourself in different cultures—not worrying about how you’ll stay connected. That’s where Sim Local steps in, offering a hassle-free solution to keep you online wherever your adventures take you. As we’ve tried several eSIM cards for our travels in the past few years, we’re always looking at the best options, prices, and ones that work effectively and quickly!
How Sim Local Started
Founded in 2011 by the visionary Irish entrepreneur Killian Whelan, Sim Local has made its mission to make travel more accessible by eliminating one of the biggest pains for travelers: staying connected affordably.
From its humble beginnings with a single shop in Dublin Airport, Sim Local quickly expanded to meet the needs of international travelers. By 2012, they had opened their first store in London Heathrow Airport, and soon, they were a familiar presence in major airports across Europe and beyond. Today, you can find Sim Local stores and vending units in over 100 airports across 9 countries, providing travelers instant access to mobile data.
Check our SimLocal’s eSIM plans here. Use discount code: GAMINTRAVELER
The Benefits of Going eSIM with Sim Local
Sim Local’s eSIM technology is perfect for the modern traveler. It’s a game-changer for anyone who wants to avoid the hassle of physical SIM cards and expensive roaming charges. Here’s why many travelers are switching to eSIM:
- Easy Setup: Get your eSIM ready in just five minutes before you leave home. It’s as simple as scanning a QR code, and you’re all set for your trip.
- Save on Costs: Sim Local offers some of the best rates out there, so you can use your phone abroad without the dreaded roaming bill shock when you get home.
- Stay Connected Always: Forget searching for Wi-Fi. With Sim Local’s eSIM, you can have data as soon as you land, making it easy to navigate maps, call a taxi, or update your social media.
- Keep Your Number: You won’t need to switch your number, so you can keep using apps like WhatsApp without any interruption.
Sim Local’s Biggest Advantage – Unlimited Data [Oct 2024]
As part of its newest offerings, Sim Local offers unlimited data for some of its most popular markets, including the UK, Japan, the United States, and more, starting in October 2024. For the UK, unlimited data is also partnered with unlimited local minutes, making a subscription with Sim Local our preferred choice for UK eSIM.
Check our SimLocal’s eSIM plans here. Use discount code: GAMINTRAVELER
Sim Local’s Growth and Partnerships
Over the years, Sim Local has not only expanded its retail footprint but also established key partnerships to broaden its reach. Their collaboration with WHSmith and agreements with several major US airports have allowed them to offer their services to even more travelers. In 2017, they signed an exclusive deal to supply local SIM cards and eSIM plans in WHSmith stores across major UK airports and even expanded into international locations like Madrid and Copenhagen.
UK Local eSIM Plans
One of Simlocal’s best plans we’ve seen are its UK Plans. If you’re looking to get connected for your travels in the UK, check out Sim Local’s plans:
For $19 USD, you have 30GB data with unlimited texts and local minutes while in the UK. This is one of Sim Local’s best plans and is honestly a great deal. Looking for more data, you can add just a few more $ and have 100GB data for $25, with an additional of international minutes in case you need those few international emergency calls.
Check our SimLocal’s eSIM plans here. Use discount code: GAMINTRAVELER
Why Choose Sim Local?
For travelers, the choice is clear. With Sim Local, you get convenience, affordability, and reliability wrapped up in one neat package. Their continued expansion and dedication to innovation mean you can expect even better services in the future. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip, staying connected is easier than ever with Sim Local.
Check our SimLocal’s eSIM plans here. Use discount code: GAMINTRAVELER
For us, some of the added benefits of using SIM Local, in addition to getting fast connection anywhere, without having to look for local sim card stores are:
- 100% refund. In case you bought you eSIM plan in advance (because you can do this with them!) and had to rearrange your travel plans or completely cancel it, you can have 100% refund from SIM local – no questions asked. The goal is to make sure you get the connection you need for your travel.
- Track your usage – SIM Local’s app is fast and intuitive so you can get a real time update on how your connection is going.
- Help and support – SIM Local’s support is available 24/7 via phone email or chat in the web. This gives us assurance that in case anything happens with connection or if we have questions, we can get the support from someone to solve it easily. Again, the goal is to make sure you are connected when you need it, and not for these admin stuff to get in the way of your travel!
How to Check if Your Phone Can Use eSIMs
With eSIM technology becoming more common, it’s important to know if your phone can support this feature, especially if you’re planning to travel. Here’s how you can easily check:
- Check Your Phone’s Settings: Many newer phones have an eSIM option in the settings menu. Look for “Cellular” or “Mobile Data” and see if there’s an option to add a data plan using an eSIM.
- Refer to the Manufacturer’s Website: Visit the website of your phone’s manufacturer and search for your model’s specifications. They will usually list if the phone supports eSIM.
- Contact Your Carrier: Your mobile carrier can also tell you if your phone supports eSIM and help you activate it if you’re eligible.
Updated List of eSIM Capable Devices (as of October 2024)
As of October 2024, many devices now support eSIM technology, making it easier for travelers to stay connected without juggling multiple SIM cards. Here’s a list of popular devices that are eSIM-capable:
Smartphones:
- Apple iPhone 14 and later: All models from the iPhone 14 onwards, including the Pro and Pro Max versions.
- Samsung Galaxy S22 and later: Includes the S22, S22+, S22 Ultra, and newer models like the S24 series.
- Google Pixel 6 and later: Starting from Pixel 6, all newer models including the Pixel 8 series.
- Huawei P50 and later: These models support eSIM in regions where Google services are not pre-installed.
Tablets:
- Apple iPad Pro (3rd generation and later): Includes both 11-inch and 12.9-inch models.
- Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 and later: High-end tablets that support mobile connectivity via eSIM.
- Microsoft Surface Pro X and later: A favorite for business travelers, supporting both LTE and eSIM.
Smartwatches:
- Apple Watch Series 6 and later: All models from Series 6 onwards, including the SE versions, support eSIM.
- Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 and later: Provides standalone mobile connectivity via eSIM.
Laptops:
- Microsoft Surface Pro X and later: Offers LTE and eSIM support, ideal for professionals on the go.
- Dell Latitude 9420 and later: These business laptops come equipped with eSIM technology for constant connectivity.
Why eSIM is a Game Changer for Travelers
Using an eSIM can significantly enhance your travel experience by providing seamless connectivity without the need to physically swap out SIM cards. This technology not only simplifies staying connected across different countries but also helps in managing your mobile services more efficiently. With the updated range of devices supporting eSIM, it’s become easier for travelers to leverage this technology, ensuring they remain connected, whether they are navigating through city streets or working remotely from a beachside café.
Whether you’re a tech-savvy traveler or someone who enjoys the convenience, checking if your device supports eSIM and using a service like Sim Local can transform how you travel and stay connected globally.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.