Communication is a very important but somewhat troublesome issue when traveling abroad. If you use your usual line, communication costs will be high, and if you try to purchase a SIM card locally, you will face various barriers such as language barriers.

In this article, we will explain how you can actually cut costs and what methods you can use to save money.

Make good use of eSIM and cut your communication costs in half!

Common options for international communications and their advantages and disadvantages

International Roaming Service

International roaming allows you to use your phone without changing your line. The advantage is that it is convenient because you can use it with your usual device and plan.

However, there is a big disadvantage to leaving your phone in international roaming mode: your data charges can be very high. When using data communications overseas, you will be charged higher than normal rates, and in some cases, the bill can exceed tens of thousands of yen.

Buying a SIM card locally

You can purchase SIM cards at local airports, mobile phone shops in town, convenience stores, etc. Another advantage is that unlike international roaming, it uses local lines, so the cost is kept down.

There are also disadvantages. You will need some knowledge of a foreign language to purchase from an overseas store. You may also need identification and contact information such as a passport or hotel address. Since it is a physical SIM, you will need to replace the card.

Airport Wi-Fi Rental

The advantages of renting Wi-Fi at an airport are that it is easy to use, you can connect multiple devices at the same time, and it may be cheaper than overseas roaming.

On the other hand, there is the added burden of having to collect and return the phone, and there is also the risk of the battery running out, data capacity restrictions, and the risk of it being lost or stolen.

eSIM

Unlike physical SIMs, eSIMs do not require card replacement, which saves you the trouble. There is also no risk of losing or damaging the SIM card. In addition, the procedure is completed online, so there is no need to go to a store, and you can use it easily as soon as the same day. There are various plans available, so you can choose the one that suits you and save money.

The disadvantages are that some older models may not be compatible. Also, since online contracts are the norm, a stable Internet connection is required. In the case of eSIMs that are only for data communication, services that use phone numbers cannot be used.

How eSIM can save you money

No physical store operating costs

Since the process is completed online, there is no need to have a physical store. This reduces the cost of running a store, which allows us to offer products at reasonable prices.

Flexibility when staying in multiple countries

You can also get an eSIM for each country you visit. This eliminates the need to carry and swap multiple physical SIMs. This means you don't have to worry about losing your card or making sure you have the right SIM card when you change your destination. You can easily manage your SIMs by changing the settings on your device.

Choose the plan that's right for you

There is a wide lineup of products, from short-term to long-term, and from low data capacity to unlimited, so you can find a plan that suits you. By choosing the plan that suits you based on your destination, data capacity, number of days, etc., you can save on unnecessary expenses.

Data-saving tips to make the most of your eSIM

Download offline maps

Maps are essential when traveling in unfamiliar areas. Downloading them in advance can help you save on data usage when you are there.

Google Maps, a well-known map app, also allows you to select an area and download the surrounding map in advance.

Use of Wi-Fi hotspots

Just like in Japan, you can use free Wi-Fi when you are abroad. It is often available at airports, cafes, restaurants, hotels, etc. If you use it wisely, it is one way to save on data usage.

Just like free Wi-Fi in Japan, it is often not encrypted and security is weak, so be aware of this. Please be aware of this and use with caution.

Adjust settings for apps that use a lot of data

Another effective way to avoid data restrictions is to identify apps that use a lot of data. Apps such as games, music streaming, and video watching tend to use a lot of data.

You can check the data usage on your device's settings screen, and you can also download apps from the store that can check your data usage. If you notice that your data usage is decreasing quickly, it might be a good idea to check it.

Background data restrictions

Background data communication refers to communication that occurs automatically in the background even when the user is not operating the app. This is used to send and receive information updates and notifications.

You can also change the settings for each app, so it's a good idea to turn off background data communication for apps that you don't need.

FAQ