Travel Safe & Connected: eSIMs vs Public Wi-Fi

Even the most seasoned traveler can get frustrated when trying to stay connected while abroad. If you’ve ever found yourself forced to use an extortionate internet cafe, or trudge miles of city streets to find a business with Wi-Fi you can sign into, you’ll understand how frustrating it can be.

 

Not only is jumping from Wi-Fi to Wi-Fi unreliable and impractical, but it also has the potential to be extremely dangerous. This is just one of the many reasons why using data through an eSIM can help you when traveling. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the risks you might face when trying to get online and explain why public Wi-Fi networks vs eSIMs is a battle with a clear winner. 

The risks of using public Wi-Fi

Understanding how public Wi-Fi works is the first step to realizing just how vulnerable it can make your private information. Read on, but beware – you may find yourself cringing at how many times you’ve used public Wi-Fi when on the go.

What is public Wi-Fi?

Public Wi-Fi is the term used to describe any Wi-Fi made available to be used in public spaces, such as cafes, restaurants, airports, hotels, and shopping malls. It’s easy to identify and often just as easy to join, which is where the trouble arises.

 

Getting online is often a great way for a business to increase its revenue, as customers are more likely to spend extended amounts of time in places that let them use Wi-Fi. Sometimes a purchase has to be made or a member of staff approached for the password before you’re able to log in, to authenticate your Wi-Fi use. Often you will have to enter details such as your email address, which can be a benefit for businesses looking to market themselves to you.

 

But even in situations where steps must be taken to log into public Wi-Fi, it doesn’t automatically mean that it’s safe to use. 

Why is using public Wi-Fi risky?

The clue is in the name. Any and all members of the public can join public Wi-Fi, and there are often little to no security measures in place. This means that whenever you’re using public Wi-Fi, you’re vulnerable to the following:

 

• Malware infections – cyber attackers use public Wi-Fi as a place to distribute malware, which can find and infect your device when you join the network.

• Eavesdroppers – because public Wi-Fi isn’t secure, there is the chance of others on the same network being able to monitor your online activity and steal your information through a man-in-the-middle cyber attack. This is where your sensitive information is intercepted on its way from your device and the network.

• Fake Wi-Fi – sometimes attackers will create fake Wi-Fi networks, designed to look legitimate and trustworthy, and use it to gather sensitive information from unsuspecting users.

How eSIM data provides better security

Even if the only person monitoring your public Wi-Fi use is the owner of the business or location you’re visiting – that’s still one person too many to be safe. Using data through an eSIM is a far more reliable option.

What is eSIM data?

If you’ve got travels booked and the risks mentioned above have warned you off public Wi-Fi for good, an eSIM could be just what you’re looking for. You may already be familiar with using traditional SIM cards for international roaming – an eSIM takes this concept one step further, and uses components already embedded in your phone to give you access to data wherever you go. They add an extra layer of security due to not being able to be removed from your phone, to then be stolen or cloned.

 

With an activated eSIM and your choice of data plan, you can access over 300 mobile networks in more than 200 destinations, safely and securely. This can be up to 85% cheaper than staying with your regular mobile provider when roaming. 

How eSIM data protects your privacy and security

Using private cellular data when abroad, like the kind provided by an eSIM, is safer than public Wi-Fi for a number of reasons:

 

• Any information transferred via data is encrypted, which makes eavesdropping impossible. This means that no one else is privy to what you do online, who you’re talking to, and what information you’re sharing.
• You don’t have to give marketers your information in exchange for access to the internet. While marketing might not be malicious, it can definitely be a nuisance, and is something that using an eSIM helps to avoid.
• The network you use via mobile data is private – this means that you don’t have the share with anyone who might have malicious intentions. 
• Network providers are constantly monitoring and regulating their operations to make sure that they have the latest security measures in place.

The convenience of eSIM data

So, not only is eSIM data safe, eSIMs are also remarkably easy to use. They add a new layer on convenience to international travel, and this has made them very popular with anyone looking to travel, from backpackers to businesspeople.

Reliable data wherever you go

Using an eSIM helps you to connect to the most reliable local networks wherever you travel. Unlike traditional SIM cards, an eSIM can store the details for multiple user profiles, allowing you to switch seamlessly between providers depending on your location.

 

Not only this, but using eSIM data means you are able to bypass the browsing restrictions that certain countries may have in place on local Wi-Fi. This means reliable access to social media, news outlets, and other such apps no matter where you are.

No need to search for public Wi-Fi

No more rushing to find somewhere to get online when you step off the plane. Using eSIM data means you can let friends and family know you’ve arrived safely without exposing yourself to risky public Wi-Fi, as soon as you arrive in the country.

How to set up and use your eSIM

If you’ve never used an eSIM before, here is a quick explanation of how to get started.

Choosing an eSIM provider

Lots of mobile providers are starting to give the option of eSIMs for traveling and roaming. The majority of modern smartphones and devices will have been made with eSIMs already embedded – all you need to do is decide who it is you want to buy a plan with, and activate it.

Activating your eSIM data

Activating your eSIM couldn’t be easier. To activate a TravelSim eSIM, all you need is a QR code, which will be emailed to you after purchase. Then, after switching your service provider to TravelSim, you’ll be all set to enjoy amazing roaming rates all over the world.

Tips for using eSIM data while traveling

• Make sure your roaming is switched off to prevent accidental usage.
• You can use an eSIM to take business calls abroad, and keep your personal number for private use, all on the same phone.
• eSIMs will remain active for 12 months following their last top-up, so if you want to keep yours on hand for any unexpected adventures, make sure you use it at least once a year.

The benefits of eSIM data for safe and secure travel

When it comes to eSIM vs public Wi-Fi networks, it’s not even a close competition. Why run the risk of exposing yourself to hackers and thieves, when you can use mobile data at a great price, anywhere and at any time. If you want to try a TravelSim eSIM for your travels, we can help you get started.