Can eSIM be used during long-haul flights and layovers?

eSIM is the most convenient way to stay connected during international visits. However, travelers often ask, “Can I use eSIM to connect during long-haul flights and layovers?”

eSIM is a cost-effective alternative to local SIMs and data roaming. It helps to avoid connectivity issues. While traveling. 

This article explains how to access data and connect with family and friends without interruption during layovers and long flights. 

What is eSIM, and how does it help travelers stay connected? 

eSIM is a small chip embedded into the device and can’t be removed. An electronic SIM is a digital version of a physical SIM that looks different but works similarly. Digital SIM is a convenient and flexible way to stay connected during travel. Users can save different eSIM profiles on their devices, which helps switch between multiple carriers.

Frequent travelers must adopt an eSIM to avoid data roaming charges. An embedded SIM is more secure than a physical SIM card. Before traveling, users buy the eSIM plan for the destination country and connect worldwide without any hassle.

What are the issues travelers face during international travel?

Discussing the issues that users mostly face during travel will help you understand the benefits of eSIM. 

• High Roaming Charges: International travel with data roaming costs expensive data roaming charges. These charges add up to your travel budget. 
• Unreliable WiFi Connections: WiFi connections are available at the airports to connect. However, users may face security concerns and weak connections that cause frustration. 
• Managing Physical SIMs: Physical SIMs for international travel causes disconnectivity. You may need to swap the SIM cards to ensure a strong connection during layovers. 

Varying Internet Connection: Users face varying internet connections, which may lead to slow speeds in different areas.

Why is eSIM best to use for travelers?

Embedded SIM is the best option for a seamless internet connection. It is an affordable way to connect during long-haul flights and layovers. With an eSIM, you don’t need to connect your device to slow or unauthorised WiFi. 

• Instant Remote Activation: eSIM has instant activation. While traveling, users don’t need to purchase the physical SIM. You can activate your eSIM remotely in a few clicks from any place and time.
• Offer Full Coverage: Embedded SIM offers full data coverage to the user. Whether on long flights or visiting the places in your destination country, eSIM doesn’t stop working. You can enjoy seamless connectivity on long or short trips.
• No Hassle of Physical Swapping: Virtual SIM doesn’t require physical swapping. Users can store multiple eSIM profiles on their devices, which helps them manage different networks on a single device. You also don’t need physical swapping in case of a connectivity issue.
• Cost-Effective: Unlike physical SIM and data roaming, the eSIM data plans are cost-effective for travelers. If you are traveling to the USA, use Phonico eSIM to enjoy a stable internet connection. 

Can you get connectivity during your long-haul flights?

You can’t access the eSIM data to stay connected during flight due to flight mode restrictions. Turning on airplane mode disables all cellular data connections, including eSIM. Therefore, you can connect during long-haul flights. 

However, you can use the following methods to stay connected.

Use in-flight WiFi

Many flights offer internet services for passengers to use apps like 

Many airlines offer in-flight WiFi services, allowing passengers to access apps like WhatsApp, Zoom, Google Meet and Skype. During flights, users can send messages and check emails.

Download Essentials in Advance

With this method, you don’t stay connected every time. But it helps you access the essentials. Download the offline maps and install the eSIMs on your device before departure. 

How to use the eSIM for layovers? 

If the eSIM is pre-installed in your device, you can use the eSIM data for your layovers. Digital SIM provides a reliable way to stay connected without a physical SIM. When the user lands, the eSIM automatically connects to the supported network. Using an electronic SIM at the layover destination avoids the high data roaming charges.

Tips to Stay Connected with eSIM at Layover Destination

• Turn off airplane mode once your flight lands at the airport.
• Make sure your eSIM provides internet services at your layover destination.
• Buy the eSIM and the plans according to your stay at the layover destination. 
• On transit, switch the eSIM profiles.

Conclusion

eSIM can’t provide a data connection on flights due to flight mode restrictions. However, an embedded SIM is the best option for enjoying internet connectivity during layovers. You should set up eSIM on your device before departure to avoid any configuration issues. eSIM automatically activates once you land at your layover destination. 

FAQs

Does eSIM work in airplane mode?

No embedded SIM doesn’t work in airplane mode. Turning off airplane mode disables all network access to your device, including eSIM.

Is an eSIM best for international travel?

eSIM is the best travel companion that offers a seamless connection while traveling. It helps to maintain your communication worldwide. Digital SIM is a cost-effective solution for travelers to enjoy 24/7 data.