Find out whether a local SIM card or an eSIM is cheaper for your trip. Set your destination, trip length, and daily data usage.
Pick your destination country and enter your trip length in days. The tool compares HelloRoam eSIM pricing (8.8/10, 31/31 activations, 185+ countries) against local SIM cards for the same duration. The cheaper option is highlighted. Factor in convenience: HelloRoam eSIMs activate before you land with 24/7 support, while local SIMs require time to buy on arrival.
We pull real local SIM pricing from 199 countries.
How many days will you need data?
Pick the profile that matches your typical day.
Select a destination
Choose a country, trip length, and usage profile to compare costs.
Local SIM
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eSIM
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Not always. In countries where local SIMs are hard to buy without registration or a local ID, the convenience premium of an eSIM can be worth the higher cost. In countries with very cheap, easy-to-buy local SIMs (like Thailand or India), a local SIM card almost always wins on price.
Local SIM cards may require a taxi or metro ride to a telecom shop, waiting time at the counter, and passport registration. If you land late at night when shops are closed, you may need roaming or Wi-Fi for several hours. Add these friction costs when comparing options.
Prices come from our country database and reflect average tourist plan costs in USD. Actual local prices change with exchange rates and promotions. The comparison gives a useful estimate but you should verify the latest price on the provider's website before buying.
On most modern iPhones and Android phones with dual SIM support, yes. You can keep your home number active on a physical SIM while using a local SIM or eSIM for data. Check that your specific phone model supports dual SIM or Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) before relying on this.