How not to get lost online on a trip: why eSIM is a convenient ticket to the Internet
When you travel, communication is not a luxury, but a necessity. The route to the hostel, finding a cafe, translating the train schedule or menu – all this is much easier if you have the Internet.
I still remember my first trips: in my pocket a dusty guidebook, through the streets with lanterns looking for an address; and then the era of smartphones and the hunt for a kiosk with a physical SIM, trying to explain to the seller on his fingers and almost 20 minutes spent with tiny plastic chips in his hands.
Fortunately, it’s now easier with eSIM. No plastic cards: downloaded the app, scanned the QR – and in his pocket there was a stream of data. In today’s world, where you can’t even pay for a taxi or coffee without the internet (especially in China, where a lot is done through apps), eSIM is a godsend.
Who are Holafly?
Holafly, a company founded in Spain in 2017, is now based in Dublin. They offer eSIMs, which are installed through a QR code and allow you to connect to the Internet abroad through local networks.
The peculiarity of Holafly is that in more than 200 destinations, many of their fares come with unlimited traffic and are sold by day, not by gigabytes. You can choose from 1 to 90 days.
The coverage is quite extensive: over 200 destinations, including most of Europe, Asia, North and Latin America.
How to install Holafly
The process is simple, but a couple of points should be considered in advance:
Check the phone – it should be unlocked and support eSIM (most fresh iPhones and many modern Android devices support eSIM). Prepare Wi-Fi for installation.
Save the confirmation letter and the QR code in a safe place.
Installation (on Wi-Fi): Open the letter and scan the QR code or click the activation link. There are three installation options:
- Scan the QR code.
- Handheld.
One-Button Install for iOS 17.4 and later.
On iPhone: Settings -> Cellular (or Mobile Data) -> Add Cellular Tariff -> scan QR.
- On Android: Settings -> Network and Internet (or Connections) -> SIM cards / Mobile Network -> Add eSIM / Add mobile tariff -> scan QR. Item names may vary depending on the model.
Upon arrival, turn on data roaming for the Holafly line: go to the cellular settings, select the Holafly line and activate Data Roaming and Mobile Data for it. To avoid getting random roaming charges, turn off mobile data for your home SIM card.
Technical nuances and advantages
Holafly works through partner local operators, so you automatically use the network that has the best signal at a particular point. Their eSIM is data-only, so voice calls and SMS are better left on your home SIM; messengers like WhatsApp, iMessage and Telegram will continue to work with your number as usual. The ability to distribute the Internet through hotspot is also available.
Why is it convenient?
The promise of “unlimited internet” is the main argument: instead of buying small packages of gigabytes that melt quickly when using cards, social networks or video calls, you pay for days and get unlimited traffic for this period.
Prices start from about 4 USD per day, for long trips or subscriptions it is cheaper. Holafly offers day plans, regional eSIM (15+) and global eSIM options, round-the-clock multilingual support – and importantly, no hidden fees. By the way, when buying, you can use the MATTK code and get a 5% discount.
A small tip for tourists
If you like to discover your own city, eSIM makes it safer and more convenient.
And if you want to feel the place deeper, take a couple of excursions with a local guide: the guide will tell you the routes, introduce you to the history and hidden corners, and with eSIM you can immediately watch photos, maps and local services, buy tickets or translate menus without unnecessary hassle.
This is especially useful in countries where there are many mobile payments. ChinaWith a local guide, you will understand the applications faster, and with eSIM you will immediately start using them.
Holafly’s eSIM is a great option for self-employed travelers: it is quick to install, works in hundreds of destinations, often provides unlimited traffic and saves time that used to take to find a physical SIM. For a calm and flexible movement in a foreign city – almost a win-win choice.
Text and photo: personalguide
Friends!
Allow yourself to travel in a popular and popular format - an individual tour with a private guide.
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