Few of us can do without our mobile phones for even a few minutes these days.
On an international trip, phones are especially important for staying in touch with friends and loved ones back home, sharing photos, finding local information, viewing maps, and even using online translation apps.
However, Australian mobile networks charge some of the highest rates in the world for international roaming. 
If you have a Telstra plan, adding international roaming for most destinations will cost you $10 a day. 
Different Optus plans have different prices for international roaming, but you can expect to pay $5 or $10 daily. 
On a two-week overseas trip, $10 a day adds up to $140. 
However, there is a more affordable option.

What is a travel eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital SIM card that replaces traditional physical SIM cards and can be easily installed on most modern mobile phones, including Apple iPhones and Android devices. 
You can install these on your device while you still have a physical SIM card inserted, allowing you to access two different mobile networks simultaneously. 
These eSIM cards are great for international travellers because they no longer require buying a physical SIM card upon arrival at their destination. 
You can have instant access to a local mobile network as soon as you land – and avoid paying international roaming charges to your Australian mobile network provider.

What are the best eSIM providers for Australian travellers?

We have personally used Airalo as our eSIM provider on multiple overseas trips, including to the United States, New Zealand and across Asia. 
Airalo is a global leader and has affordable options for almost any trip. 
They also use some better mobile networks than other providers and, in some cases, have access to multiple networks for greater coverage. 
For example, in the United States, Airalo has access to the T-Mobile 5G and Verizon 5G networks, two of the country’s three most extensive networks. 

How do you install a travel eSIM?

You don’t need to be an IT whiz to install an eSIM on your phone.
The process is relatively straightforward.
If you download an app for a provider like Airalo, you simply click a button in the app after buying an eSIM. 
The installation process takes just a few seconds, and your data plan will be ready to go. 

How much cheaper are Airalo travel eSIM plans? 

Airalo’s plans can be significantly cheaper than paying for international roaming from your Australian mobile network.
We’re talking less than $1 a day, depending on your destination, the length of your stay and how much data you need. 
Here are some examples of popular plans for destinations frequented by Australians, with prices current as of October 2024: 

If you need more or less data, there are other options for you. 
Plans are also available for far more destinations worldwide, including global plans that cover more than 130 countries. 

Can I still receive text messages on my Australian number with a travel eSIM installed? 

The wonderful thing about eSIMs is they can work in tandem with your Australian mobile number while overseas. 
Most Australian mobile providers allow you to receive text messages for free overseas – without paying for an international roaming plan. 
This means you can still receive two-factor authentication text messages if you need to log into your Australian apps, websites or bank accounts.
However, before travelling, be sure to check your plan to ensure that you can receive free text messages overseas.
If you have an iPhone, you can also call friends or family back home using FaceTime video or audio – with only the help of your eSIM data.
Internet calls and messaging apps like Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp are other options for staying in touch without paying for international roaming.

Summary

eSIMs offer a cost-effective alternative to international roaming for Australian travellers. Installing an eSIM like Airalo allows you to connect to local mobile networks at affordable rates (often less than $1 a day). This cuts the need for expensive roaming charges and allows you to stay connected while exploring destinations overseas.

Written By: Chris
Updated: October 2024

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS