Traveling abroad can be exciting, but staying connected can be challenging without the right tools. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to turn on data roaming, compare it to eSIM, and explain how these options work to keep you connected while abroad.
What is data roaming?
Data roaming allows you to use your phone’s data and make calls while you’re abroad, by connecting to a local network in the country you’re visiting. However, this service often comes with high charges since you’re using a foreign network. Be cautious of roaming fees, as they can add up very quickly if you’re not aware of the rates or if you don’t have a roaming plan in place. It’s important to check with your provider to avoid unexpected costs that could impact your budget.
Why activate it?
If you’re traveling abroad, activating data roaming is crucial for staying connected. It enables you to use your apps, check emails, and share photos or updates on social media without the hassle of searching for public Wi-Fi or relying on slow and unreliable connections. With data roaming activated, you can have access to important services and stay connected with friends, family, and work, no matter where you are in the world.
When should you activate roaming?
Before embarking on your trip, make sure to activate data roaming on your phone to avoid losing connection when you arrive at your destination. This will help you stay connected and avoid any disruptions to your communication, allowing you to make calls, send messages, and use your data without any interruptions while traveling abroad.
How does data roaming work and how to turn it on?
When you travel abroad, your phone connects to a local network through an agreement between your home carrier and the one in the destination country. This allows you to use your data and phone services, but these services may incur additional costs since you’re connected to a foreign network.
Now that data roaming is no longer a mystery to you, below are the steps to how to turn on data roaming: but be careful! Before you travel, you must enable data roaming on your phone to avoid losing connection.
Here’s the translation with the requested table format:
| Steps to Follow | iPhone | Android |
| 1. Open Settings | Go to Settings (the gear icon on your home screen). | Go to Settings (the gear icon on your home screen). |
| 2. Access Data Settings | Tap cellular data (this is where you manage your mobile data usage). | Tap mobile networks (this section allows you to manage network connections). |
| 3. Find the Roaming Option | Tap options (where you find advanced mobile data settings). | Tap data roaming (this is where you enable data usage abroad). |
| 4. Turn on Data Roaming | Enable data roaming (this allows you to use your data abroad). | Enable data roaming (this allows you to use the internet outside of your country). |
It’s important to keep in mind that roaming charges can add up quickly if not managed properly. To avoid unexpected costs, it’s recommended to check the rates and choose suitable options, such as international plans or eSIMs like those offered by Orange Travel eSIM World, specially designed for travelers.
What’s the difference between an eSIM and data roaming?
Now that you understand what data roaming is, it’s time to discover eSIM! Let’s explore the key differences between these two options to help you make the best choice based on your connectivity needs.
| Criteria | Data Roaming | eSIM |
| Price | Often tied to a monthly subscription, with extra roaming charges. | Pay-as-you-go or prepaid plans, flexible cost management. |
| Control of charges | Unexpected roaming fees, can quickly add up. | Better cost control with prepaid plans. |
| Usage and flexibility | Less flexibility, standard and limited plans. | Flexible plans, tailored to your needs and travel duration. |
| ️ Setup and activation | Often requires in-store activation or a call to customer service. | Quick activation via an app or QR code, no physical intervention. |
| Network quality | Dependent on agreements between your carrier and local operators. | Choose from multiple local operators for better coverage. |
| Security | Risk of loss or theft of the physical SIM card. | Less risk of loss or theft of the SIM card, digital management. |
| Multi-destination | Often requires specific plans for each region or country. | Easy to switch plans or operators depending on the countries you visit. |
| Customer support | Support usually available by phone or in-store. | Support often available online or via apps, convenient for travelers. |
| Validity period | Often tied to your monthly subscription, with extra roaming charges. | Plans available for specific periods (e.g., 1 day, 1 week), ideal for short stays. |
To learn more about what it is and how it works, check out our full article on the subject:
What is the difference between roaming data and mobile data?
Switching from Data Roaming to eSIM: good connectivity at a better price
Switching from traditional data roaming to eSIM offers several key advantages, both in terms of connectivity and cost management. Here’s why eSIM is an excellent alternative for your international travels:
- Savings and flexibility: Data roaming can lead to hidden fees that quickly add up if not managed properly. With eSIM, you have complete control over your budget with pay-as-you-go or prepaid plans, tailored to your specific needs. You only pay for what you use, with no surprise charges at the end of the month.
- Better network coverage: eSIM allows you to choose from multiple local operators, providing better connection quality and broader coverage. No more worrying about finding a local SIM card or dealing with poor reception due to limitations between your carrier and local networks.
Adopting eSIM means choosing more stable, flexible, and cost-effective connectivity for your trips abroad. Simplify data management while enjoying better network quality, no matter where you are!
FAQ: Everything you need to know about eSIM | Orange Travel
How to install an eSIM on my phone?
Installing an Orange Travel eSIM is simple and can be done in three easy steps:
- Choose your destination and select your plan.
- Add the eSIM to your phone in seconds.
- Start using your plan immediately.
For more informations : How to activate eSIM on iPhone with Orange Travel
Does the Orange Travel eSIM work in Europe?
Yes, the eSIM works across in 200 destinations ,including Europe, Africa, Asia, Central America, the Middle East, North America, Oceania, and South America.
Take a look at our list of available destinations! Explore Orange Travel’s eSIM/SIM plans available
Which devices are eSIM compatible with?
Orange Travel guides you with its list of compatible devices. In the section :
eSIM compatible android phones for 2025
Is your IPhone compatible with eSIM ?
What are the specific advantages of Orange Travel for travelers?
Orange Travel offers several benefits for travelers:
- Avoids roaming fees
- Quick eSIM installation in seconds
- Immediate plan activation
- Flexibility to choose your destination and plan
- Ability to top-up anytime
