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TSIM Review: Is this the Best eSIM for International Travel?

22/2/2025

 

TSIM Review: Is this the Best eSIM for International Travel?

If you’re planning on taking a trip, you might be wondering what is the best way to get online when traveling internationally. After exploring various options, the eSIM provider TSIM emerges as an excellent choice for maintaining a reliable connection.
This guide provides a full review of the TSIM eSIM service to see if it might be the right option for you when traveling outside of your home country. It is based on user experience using a TSIM eSIM in a number of different countries around the world, as well as from a perspective of long-term professional travelers who work on the road and need to be connected.
The TSIM eSIM is a great option, but it won’t be right for everyone. Let’s dive in and start with the basics.
eSIM - embedded SIM
eSIM - embedded SIM, digital alternate of a physical sim card


What is an eSIM?

An eSIM, or "embedded SIM," is like an upgraded version of the traditional SIM card. Instead of being a small physical card you insert into your phone, an eSIM is a tiny, programmable chip that’s already built into your device. Activating it is as simple as installing an app—it’s all done digitally, without the need for a physical card.


Why Do You Need a Travel eSIM?

In today’s world, staying connected while traveling can make your journey far more convenient and enjoyable. Your smartphone plays an essential role, helping you:
  • Navigate unfamiliar cities.
  • Pay for transport and other services.
  • Make online reservations and research local attractions or restaurants.
Having a reliable data plan means you don’t need to hunt for free WiFi at every stop, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip without interruptions.
If you want to stay connected while traveling internationally, there are several ways to do so. Travel eSIMs are a simple, effective option that eliminates the need for physical SIM cards or the hassle of swapping them in and out.
For more on your options, check out my guide to staying online while traveling!
In summary, your main options are to:
  • Roam with your home network provider
  • Buy a travel SIM / eSIM
  • Buy a local SIM card
  • Use a mobile hotspot
  • Use free WiFi
Choosing the right option for staying connected while traveling depends on a few key factors, such as the type of device you’re using, your destination, and how much you plan to use your phone.
In most cases, you’ll need to explore alternatives, such as a travel-specific SIM or purchasing a local SIM card. Just make sure your phone is compatible with the local network, as regions use different frequency bands. If your device is unlocked and supports the required bands, a local SIM card is often the most affordable option.
That said, setting up a local SIM can be tricky—finding the right provider, navigating the language barrier, and dealing with setup instructions can feel overwhelming.
This is where travel SIMs and eSIMs come in. Designed specifically for travelers, they offer a straightforward and relatively affordable way to get online. While they used to be quite expensive, recent competition has driven prices down, making them a much more attractive option.
One company offering competitively priced travel SIMs and eSIMs is TSIM, making it easier than ever to stay connected on the go.
eSIM for travel
eSIM for travel


Who are TSIM?

TSIM, launched in 2019, is a global provider of eSIM solutions designed to make staying connected while traveling easier. Currently, they offer eSIMs for over 200 countries, enabling travelers to get online virtually anywhere in the world.


What Products Does TSIM Offer?

TSIM provides a variety of eSIMs, categorized based on travel destinations:
  1. Local eSIMs: Ideal for single-country trips, these are the most cost-effective option if you’re traveling to just one or two countries.
  2. Regional eSIMs: Perfect for multi-country trips, these cover specific regions such as Europe, the Caribbean Islands, or Latin America. They’re great if your itinerary spans several countries in a short timeframe.
  3. Global eSIM: This option allows you to connect in about 80 of TSIM’s most popular covered countries. However, it doesn’t include every country, so it’s important to check the list of supported destinations before purchasing.
Beyond choosing a category, you can also customize the eSIM based on its validity and data allowance. TSIM eSIMs generally offer validity from 7 to 30 days and data ranging from 1GB to 20GB, depending on the country or region. The Global eSIM, however, can provide coverage for up to a year.


How Much Data Do You Need?

The amount of data you’ll need depends on your usage habits. Most travelers find that 1–2GB of data per week is sufficient for tasks like research, navigation, and communication. If you plan to stream videos, share large files, or use your phone as a hotspot, you may need more data. For light users—checking emails and occasional social media browsing—less data may suffice.


What About Voice Calls?

Most TSIM eSIMs (and many travel eSIMs) only include data and do not offer voice minutes. This isn’t an issue for many travelers who rely on apps like WhatsApp or Skype for communication.
For those who need voice minutes, some TSIM eSIMs include this feature. For example, local eSIMs for the US and UK, as well as the Discover+ version of the Global eSIM, offer options that include voice calls and minutes. If calling is important for your travel needs, these options are worth considering.
TSIM’s range of eSIMs offers flexibility, affordability, and convenience, making it easier to stay connected no matter where your travels take you.


How Much Does TSIM Cost?

TSIM’s pricing depends on factors like your travel destination, the cost of data in that region, and the data plan’s validity. Typically, purchasing more data for a longer duration is more cost-effective, but it’s important to buy only what you’ll use.
​
Here are some sample prices as of December 2024:
​
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United Kingdom e-SIM card
​
₹989 for 5GB of data valid for 30 days
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Canada e-SIM card
​
₹2089 for 5GB of data valid for 30 days
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United States e-SIM card
​
​₹1289 for 5GB of data valid for 30 days
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Europe e-SIM card
​
(39 countries): ₹1089 for 5GB of data valid for 30 days (includes the UK, Spain, France, and Italy)
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Asia e-SIM card
​
(13 countries): ₹1989 for 5GB of data valid for 30 days (includes Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, China, and Cambodia)
​TSIM is usually more economical or comparable in price to other travel eSIM providers. They also offer a loyalty program, which will further save one money in the long run.


User Experience with TSIM

When it comes to staying connected while traveling abroad, TSIM eSIM has proven to be a dependable solution across continents, including Europe, Africa, and the USA. Its consistent performance in different countries makes it a go-to choice for many international travelers.

The first step is checking device compatibility. Modern smartphones like the Samsung S24 and other eSIM-enabled models can seamlessly support the TSIM service. The process begins with downloading the InstaSIM App, which is available on both iOS and Android platforms. The setup is quick, registration is hassle-free, and the app interface is user-friendly.

One standout feature of TSIM is its coverage in destinations often overlooked by other providers. For example, countries like Uganda and Rwanda are included in TSIM’s coverage, something not commonly found with other eSIM services. The eSIM selection and activation is flawless with the app, and connectivity remains stable even over extended stays.

​TSIM’s wide network coverage and affordable pricing make it especially valuable for frequent travelers or those on longer trips. The ability to stay online without hunting for local SIM cards or relying on spotty hotel Wi-Fi has become a key advantage.


TSIM Review for International Travel

When signing up for TSIM, users can choose from a variety of plan options based on their travel destination. For instance, multiple data plans are available for countries like Uganda, catering to different durations and data needs.
For travelers expecting regular access to WiFi, a smaller data plan—such as the 15-day 2GB option—can be a practical and cost-effective choice. It offers enough coverage for essential on-the-go usage like maps, messaging, and occasional browsing.


Getting Started with TSIM

After the eSIM purchase, a confirmation email is sent containing detailed installation instructions. It’s advisable to review these carefully. While the setup process isn’t complex, it may seem unfamiliar if you’re new to eSIM technology.
Once installed, managing the eSIM is straightforward. Adding data packages later is simple and doesn’t require reinstalling the eSIM. For example, during a visit to Rwanda, data was easily topped up as needed. An added benefit is that the eSIM stays on the device, allowing it to be reactivated and reloaded with data when returning to the same country, as long as the same phone is used.


Performance and Usability

After a positive experience using TSIM in Uganda, the service was also tested in Rwanda, where higher data usage—such as through tethering—was required. The top-up process proved seamless, maintaining reliable connectivity throughout. TSIM has since been used in other regions, including the USA and various parts of Europe, consistently delivering fast 5G speeds where available and stable 4G coverage in other areas.


Pros of TSIM

  • Quick and easy setup that becomes even simpler with subsequent installations.
  • Reliable connectivity in a wide range of countries.
  • Convenience of using the eSIM alongside a home SIM, allowing you to receive messages.
  • Straightforward top-up process for adding more data.
  • Compatibility with 5G in supported areas.


Cons of TSIM

  • Slightly more expensive than local SIM cards in some countries (though often comparable and cheaper in places like the USA).
  • Most TSIM eSIMs don’t include voice calls or SMS, which can be inconvenient if you need to make local calls. Apps like Skype over 4G help bridge this gap.


TSIM Review Summary

TSIM is an excellent option for travelers seeking a simple, cost-effective way to stay online internationally. While it may not always be cheaper than a local SIM, the convenience and wide coverage make it worth considering.
One notable advantage is the ability to use TSIM alongside a primary home SIM for receiving messages, combined with a straightforward and hassle-free setup process. TSIM’s availability in over 200+ countries is another standout feature.
However, TSIM may not be ideal for everyone. Not all devices support eSIM technology yet, and for those prioritizing cost, a local SIM might still be the better choice.
If you’re interested in TSIM, you can visit their website to learn more and explore their plans.

    AUTHOR

    Picture
    Namaste! I'm Medhavi Davda.
    I travel to Evolve..
    In Nature, I confide..
    I find my calling in the Himalayas..
    In the Oceans, I meditate..

    ​
    A High-Altitude Trekker & PADI certified SCUBA Diver, I love exploring the heights and depths of the planet with my regular doses of mountains and oceans.
    ​
    Discovering myself & life through nature, adventures, travels, sports and dance has been an addiction since my existence!

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