An international SIM card, a roaming SIM card, or a travel SIM card all serve the same purpose: letting you connect to others from any part of the world at any time.
You can use it anywhere and make calls anywhere. Why is there so much emphasis on the word “anywhere?” Because “anywhere” means the number of countries covered by the prepaid international SIM card.
Some travel prepaid SIM providers ensure coverage in up to 150 countries, including every European country. Now, let’s see how a prepaid international SIM works.
Prepaid International SIM Card: How Does It Work?
Without indulging in the technical aspects, an international SIM card isn’t designed to remain in a single network.
These SIM cards are programmed to function on various networks in different countries or locations, especially those leveraging the Global Systems of Management Communications (GSM) framework.
That’s why when considering using a travel SIM card internationally, and your cell phone must be:
- Unlocked and untied to any specific provider
- GSM-compatible
Typically, the international SIM you have will connect with a local network from the country where you’re travelling consensually.
It’s one of the reasons why coverage varies so significantly among the various prepaid international SIMs. However, some international SIM cards are programmed for global usage. In contrast, others are programmed for roaming in specific regions like Europe, the USA, or Asia.
Benefits of Purchasing a Prepaid International SIM
A local SIM card is always inexpensive and more reliable for extended travel and stays in any country. Unluckily, you won’t find any cheap international SIM cards yet.
Meanwhile, country-hoppers may want to buy something that can save them money. In that case, a prepaid international SIM card becomes beneficial to them. It’s not fun or smart to purchase a local SIM for only 1-2 weeks of use on a foreign trip.
An international travel SIM can also benefit individuals living the digital nomadic life. Although a local SIM is well-equipped for a more extended stay in some countries, there are some disadvantages too.
Sometimes, the services or options are not worth it, and sometimes you’ll spend long stretches on transit, which is ideal for chopping out a few hours. Besides, who says you can’t carry two SIMs with you? Here, bringing a prepaid international SIM can be of immense benefit.
Finally, businesspersons who often visit abroad for a shorter span can benefit from an international SIM card for their foreign trips. This is not a stereotype, but these people won’t mind spending extra on SIM cards, which will give them more communication convenience.
Moreover, plenty of SIM cards for offshore use come with a one-year validity for the purchased credit. Thus, it benefits you to keep your SIM somewhere safe after a trip and insert it back on your cell phone when going for the next trip.
International SIM Card: Should You Buy It?
The answer depends on where and how often you travel. If you’re used to buying SIM cards after hitting the ground of another country, then there’s no issue.
However, if you don’t have the time to spend hours looking for a local SIM card from another country, go for an international SIM card. You should go for it if it fits your travelling needs and style.
From this international SIM card guide, we can deduce that a prepaid international SIM dramatically benefits individuals who keep visiting foreign countries for business, personal, or travel.
Not only can you use it during the entire trip without any hassle, but you can also keep using it for the following trips by doing the necessary recharge. It’s as simple as that.
