So that you can use your mobile devices in Europe as if you were at home, it is essential that you have an internet connection. There are various options on the market and each of them has its advantages and disadvantages.
In this guide we will explain each of the different alternatives that you have at your disposal so that you can get mobile internet on your trips to Europe. At the end we will give you recommendations on which one to choose according to the type of trip.
Option 1. Use an eSIM for Europe
Using a prepaid eSIM in Europe is one of the simplest and fastest options you have at your disposal to connect to the internet on your trips. The duration of the trip through Europe does not matter, since there are options for these cards that cover less than a week and others that last up to 6 months or more.
Among its many advantages, the speed of the purchase, delivery, installation and activation process stands out. On average, completing this entire process can take about an hour. Plus everything is done online, without having to leave home. Some notable travel eSIM card providers are Maya Mobile, Nomad eSIM, YeSIM, and MobiMatter. Each one with different types of data plans.
On the other hand, the main disadvantage of this alternative is its compatibility. Only some Apple and Samsung devices , along with other brands, offer the possibility of installing an eSIM. Most of them are high-end.
If you don’t know anything about this technology, we invite you to read our complete guide on the eSIM.
Option 2. Get a European prepaid SIM card
You can get a European prepaid SIM card before leaving your country or look for it when you arrive at an airport or European city. There are different types of prepaid cards. Orange and Bouygues Telecom are two companies recognized for selling international prepaid SIM cards for Europe. Both operators offer SIMs for tourists.
In case you are interested in this option, if you are in UK or the US, SimCorner is a company that distributes this type of cards to several countries around the world. Shipping times usually range from 2 days to a week. Therefore, it is advisable to request it in advance.
Option 3. Rent a portable WiFi
For family trips, a pocket WiFi or portable WiFi is a good companion. This device provides an internet connection through a portable WiFi network . The operation is similar to a home WiFi router. Its difference is in how it connects to the data. Which is usually done through a SIM inside.
Some companies dedicated to renting portable WiFi equipment are MIOWiFi and TravelWiFi. Both have data packages for Europe and the possibility of connecting up to 5 devices (such as smartphones, PCs or tables) to the WiFi network.
The main disadvantage of this option is found in pre-sales and post-sales management. It is necessary to wait a few days to receive the device and after returning from the trip it is necessary to return it to the company where we rented it. These steps usually increase the costs of the service. Likewise, in case of loss or theft it is necessary to pay compensation. The companies that offer this service add to your credit card as a guarantee for the return of the device.
Option 4. Activate data roaming
Data roaming allows you to connect to the internet in Europe using the same operator SIM that you have in your country before embarking on your trip. Its main advantage is comfort and ease of use. To use the service you need to activate data roaming.
On the other hand, the disadvantage of this option is the price . Most mobile phone companies usually charge a high price for each MB you use on your trip to Europe. This value can be around 8 or 10 USD. It is also common for them to charge you for each day of use. In this case, you are required to activate a package that covers the time of your trip.
Option 5. Connect to public WiFi networks
Public WiFi is an added value that some places in Europe have, such as parks or commercial establishments. It works identically to home WiFi , although the quality of service may vary depending on the number of users connected to that network.
It is not advisable to connect to public WiFi networks to carry out online transactions that require security or protection of the information you enter. In these situations, you can choose to hire a VPN network for Europe to help you mitigate the vulnerability of this type of networks.
Conclusions
It is becoming more and more convenient to find options that allow you to connect to mobile internet in Europe. Simplicity in the purchasing process, delivery times and activation are features that have improved in recent years.
Depending on the type of trip, one option or another may be better. For example, for family or work trips, a pocket WiFi is a good option because it allows you to connect multiple devices at the same time without having to verify that they are all compatible with the European frequency bands.
Likewise, for trips where you only need to use your cell phone, the eSIM is a great option. In case the device is not compatible, you can also opt for prepaid SIMs.
