Communication is a very important but somewhat troublesome issue when traveling abroad. Using your usual internet connection can be expensive, and purchasing a SIM card locally can pose various barriers, such as language barriers.

In this article, we will explain how you can actually reduce costs and what methods are available 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 current phone line without changing it. The advantage is that it is convenient because you can use it with your usual device and plan.

However, there is a major disadvantage to leaving international roaming as it is: 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. Unlike international roaming, it uses local lines, so the cost is lower.

There are also disadvantages. Since you will be purchasing from an overseas store, you will need some knowledge of a foreign language. 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 the airport include ease of use, the ability to connect multiple devices simultaneously, and the potential for lower costs than international roaming.

On the other hand, there are the disadvantages of having to carry more luggage and having to pick up and return the phone, as well as the risk of the battery running out, limitations on data capacity, and the risk of loss or theft.

eSIM

Unlike physical SIMs, eSIMs eliminate the need to replace cards, saving you the hassle. There's also no risk of losing or damaging your SIM card. The process is completed online, so there's no need to go to a store, and you can easily get started on the same day. There are a variety of plans available, so you can choose the one that suits you best 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. If you have an eSIM that's only for data communication, you can't use services that use your phone number.

How eSIM can save you money

No physical store operation costs

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

Flexible accommodation 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 inserted when you change destinations. You can easily manage your SIMs by changing your device settings.

Choose the plan that's right for you

There is a wide lineup of products, from short-term to long-term plans, and from low data capacities to unlimited data capacities, 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 costs.

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 will help you save on data usage when you're there.

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

Utilizing Wi-Fi spots

Just like in Japan, you can use free Wi-Fi locally. It's often available at airports, cafes, restaurants, hotels, etc. Making good use of 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 and use it 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, such as games, music streaming, and video viewing.

You can check your data usage on your device's settings screen, and you can also download apps from the store that will help you 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 includes sending and receiving 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.

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