How much eSIM data do I need for my trip?

Different activities consume wildly different amounts of data. Maps, messaging, and email are light; scrolling photo-heavy social feeds is moderate; streaming video or using your phone as a hotspot is the heaviest.

If you mostly navigate, message, and post a few photos, your daily needs stay modest. But once video and tethering enter the mix, your data appetite climbs quickly.

A light traveler checks maps, sends messages, and browses occasionally, leaning on Wi-Fi the rest of the time. A medium traveler adds regular social, photos, and short videos throughout the day.

A heavy traveler streams music and video, shares clips, and may tether a laptop. Choosing the style closest to you is the fastest way to land on the right plan size.

Estimate a rough daily amount for your style, then multiply by the number of days you'll be away. Add a small buffer for travel days, when maps and ride-share apps get heavy use.

If the total lands near a plan's limit, size up. Running out of data mid-trip is far more annoying than having a small cushion.

Unlimited plans suit heavy users and anyone who hates watching a meter; smaller plans with top-ups work well for lighter trips and tighter budgets.

To stretch any plan, download maps offline before you go, use Wi-Fi in hotels and cafes for big uploads, and preload music or shows. Roamly's 30% off lets you size up affordably if you'd rather not ration.