Roaming or an eSIM: choose your phone plan
Check what your current phone plan includes before buying another one. A travel eSIM is useful only if it covers your stops and gives you something your existing plan does not.
Start with your own provider
Look up each country on your itinerary, your included data allowance, any daily charge and the cost after the allowance runs out. EU roaming arrangements have eligibility and fair-use conditions. Do not assume that every European country, every SIM bought abroad or every mobile network you connect to is included.
Compare the full offer
- Check all countries, including a border crossing or stopover.
- Confirm your phone supports eSIM and is not locked to another network.
- Read when the plan starts: purchase, installation or first connection.
- Check whether it includes calls, texts and tethering, or only data.
- Include top-ups in the comparison if the advertised allowance is too small.
Make a setup plan
Install the eSIM while you have a reliable connection, following the provider’s instructions. Label the SIMs so you know which one supplies data. Check the settings for your home line as well, particularly on ferries or near borders where a different network may connect.
An easy way to compare
Write down the total roaming charge for the trip and the total cost of a suitable data plan. Compare the same amount of usable data in the same countries. Keep a little room for maps, messaging and booking changes, instead of paying for a large allowance you will not use.
Useful next steps
Official information
Practical information reviewed on 17 September 2026. Prices and operating arrangements can change.