eSIM or Roaming? Best Option for Indians Traveling to Europe

eSIM or Roaming? What’s the best option for Indians traveling to Europe in 2025? If you’re planning a trip from India, staying connected is essential. This guide compares eSIM and international roaming — so you can choose the smartest, most affordable way to use mobile data across Europe.

I. What is eSIM and What is Roaming?

eSIM (Embedded SIM)

An eSIM is a digital SIM card that you install on your phone by scanning a QR code. It allows you to connect to a local mobile network in Europe without changing your physical Indian SIM. Most modern smartphones, like iPhones (XS and newer), Google Pixel 4+, and Samsung Galaxy S20+, support eSIM.

International Roaming

Roaming means using your Indian SIM card (Airtel, Jio, or Vi) in Europe. You activate a roaming pack before or after you land, and your phone connects to a partner network in Europe. It’s convenient but often expensive compared to local or eSIM options.

II. Real Roaming Costs from Indian Providers

Indian telecom operators offer roaming packs for Europe. Here’s a quick snapshot:

• Airtel offers a 10-day international pack at ₹2,999 with 1GB/day.
• Jio has a 10-day pack for ₹3,499 that includes 250 minutes of calls and 100 SMS.
• Vi provides a 7-day pack for ₹2,999 with 1GB/day data.

These plans are easy to activate, but they are usually valid for a limited time and may not support multiple countries in the EU equally well. Also, if you go over the daily limits, extra charges may apply.

III. What Makes eSIM a Popular Choice Abroad

eSIMs are becoming the go-to solution for frequent travelers, especially in Europe. You can buy a data plan online, scan a QR code, and instantly connect to a European network even before your flight.

Besides being cheaper, eSIMs often provide better speeds since you’re using local networks directly. You can also keep your Indian SIM active for OTPs or WhatsApp if your phone supports dual SIM.

IV. Recommended eSIM Providers for Indian Travelers

There are several international eSIM providers with Europe-wide coverage. They offer flexible plans ranging from a few days to a month, with various data limits.

For example:

• Airalo offers affordable plans starting at $10.
• Nomad eSIM provides mid-range plans with good coverage.
• Holafly is known for unlimited data plans.
• SimOptions is great for multi-country trips.
• esimindia.net is a dedicated platform for Indian users, helping you compare and buy eSIMs suitable for your phone and destination.

If you’re not sure which provider to choose, esimindia.net is a great place to start. It helps you find an eSIM plan that fits your trip, budget, and device — all in one place.

V. eSIM vs Roaming: Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re traveling for a short trip and just want something simple, roaming might work. But for most travelers — especially those going to multiple countries in Europe or staying for more than a week — eSIM is the better option.

Here’s why:

• eSIM is usually cheaper, especially for longer trips.
• You get better control over your data usage.
• You can switch plans easily or top up without dealing with a local store.
• Your Indian number stays active, so you don’t miss OTPs or messages.

Roaming is more “plug and play”, but it comes at a higher cost and with less flexibility.

VI. How to Set Up an eSIM

Setting up an eSIM takes just a few minutes. Here’s how it works:

1. First, make sure your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked.
2. Go to esimindia.net and choose a plan for Europe.
3. Buy the plan and check your email for a QR code.
4. On your phone, open Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM.
5. Scan the QR code and activate the plan.
6. When you land in Europe, turn on roaming for the eSIM profile.

That’s it — you’re connected without needing to buy a physical SIM or visit a shop abroad.

VII. Things to Keep in Mind Before You Travel

No matter which option you choose, here are a few important tips:

Make sure your phone is unlocked, otherwise you can’t use other networks. Install the eSIM before your flight — it’s faster and safer while on Wi-Fi. If you want to keep using WhatsApp or receive OTPs from Indian banks, keep your Indian SIM active in the second SIM slot. Avoid background apps refreshing to save data.

VIII. FAQs