Can I use eSIM to stay connected during long-haul flights and layovers?

Rachel Tran

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Published: December 2024

For frequent travelers, long-haul flights and layovers can make staying connected a challenge. Whether it’s checking flight updates, navigating airports, or keeping in touch, reliable connectivity is now a necessity. Yet, in-flight Wi-Fi is often unreliable, international roaming is costly, and public airport networks are often associated with security risks.

This is when eSIM, a modern, flexible solution that allows travelers to stay online without using a physical SIM card, takes into the picture. Whether you are planning a long-haul flight that may have long layovers, eSIM can help you. In this article, we will answer “Can I use eSIM to stay connected during long-haul flights and layovers?” by evaluating whether eSIM is the best option for staying connected during long-haul flights and layovers and exploring its benefits, limitations and alternatives.

I. Can you use eSIM to stay connected during long-haul flights?

The eSIM can significantly reduce the hassle associated with lack of connectivity during travel. However, you cannot use an eSIM during your flight. Due to flight restrictions, your phone must be in airplane mode when in the air, which disables all cellular networks, including eSIM.

So the question is: How can you stay connected without using eSIM on the flight?

We will get back to the answer to this question later. Now, we move on to the concern related to getting a travel eSIM for layover.

II. Should you get a travel eSIM for your layover?

Deciding whether to get a travel eSIM specifically for your layover depends on 03 key factors:

• The duration of your layover:
  • Short layovers (1-2 hours): If your layover is brief, you are less likely to need a travel eSIM. For example, if you spend most of the time navigating immigration or rushing to your next gate, connectivity may not be a priority.
  • Long layovers (3+ hours): For longer layovers, a travel eSIM is useful, especially if you leave the airport for a quick city tour or need stable internet for work while waiting at the airport.
• Your need for connectivity: If you need a secure and reliable connection, a travel eSIM is a better option than free airport WiFi.
• The availability of alternative options like free airport WiFi: It is worth noting that not all airports offer free WiFi, and even when available, it may be slow or overcrowded. Check its availability and quality in advance. If unsure, you buy an eSIM upon arrival using airport WiFi. Setup is quick and takes just a few minutes.

Now, we are back to the question mentioned earlier.

III. How to get connectivity during your flight?

To stay connected during your flight without relying on eSIM, you can try 02 following methods:

1. Use in-flight WiFi

Many airlines offer in-flight WiFi services, allowing passengers to access apps like WhatsApp, Zoom, Google Meet, Skype, or email services while in the air.

• In-flight WiFi packages vary by airline, so check the availability and pricing before your flight.
• You can also use WiFi at the airport during layovers to stay online and save mobile data.

2. Download in advance

This method is not about staying connected, but managing your connectivity needs more effectively.

• Pre-download essentials: you are advised to save maps, boarding passes, and other necessary files before departure to reduce dependence on in-flight or airport WiFi.
• Activate your eSIM beforehand to make sure you are ready for instant connectivity the moment you land and switch off airplane mode.

IV. How do eSIMs work during layovers?

During layovers, eSIM provides a convenient and reliable way to stay connected without the need for physical SIM cards or relying on unreliable airport WiFi.

Once you land and turn off airplane mode, your eSIM automatically connects to the best available local network at your layover destination.

There is no need to visit a local SIM card kiosk or wait in long queues at the airport to buy a physical SIM card. Because the eSIM is activated before your departure, you can enjoy connectivity at your layover destination while avoiding expensive roaming fees or hidden charges associated with airport WiFi.

This instant connection ensures you are online as soon as your flight lands, saving you both time and hassle.

V. Tips to use eSIM during your layovers

If you want to take the most advantage of eSIM during long-hauls or layovers, you should consider these tips:

• Check coverage compatibility: Before your trip, you should check if your eSIM plan’s coverage supports the destination you layover at. Some providers, such as Gigago, offer a variety of eSIM packages, including local, regional, and global plans. Choose a package tailored to your itinerary to ensure uninterrupted connectivity during your layover.
• Turn off airplane mode after landing: after you land, turn off airplane mode to allow your eSIM to connect automatically to the best available local network. This instant activation ensures you are online as soon as possible without needing additional setup or manual network selection.
• Use your time wisely: with eSIM connectivity, you can make the most of your layover by searching for nearby amenities, booking transportation or accommodations, or even exploring the area if time permits.