Planning a trip to Turkey? This guide will take you through everything you need to know about using an eSIM and my recommendation for the best eSIM for traveling Turkey.
Gone are the days of having to find a local phone store and buy a physical sim card when visiting Turkey. Nowadays, the easiest way to stay connected during your travels in Turkey is by using an eSIM.
If you haven’t heard of an eSIM before, or if you’re on the fence about whether to make the switch from a physical SIM for your upcoming trip, you’re in the right place. In this guide, I’ll walk you through what an eSIM is, which eSIM I’d recommend going with on your trip to Turkey and a step-by-step guide on how to use it.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM (short for embedded SIM) is a digital SIM that allows you to connect to a mobile network without needing to physically insert a SIM card into your phone. Instead of swapping out your local SIM for a new one whenever you arrive in a new country, an eSIM can be downloaded directly onto your device and activated within minutes.
The Benefits of an eSIM over a Physical SIM
1. Convenience and Flexibility
Perhaps the biggest advantage of an eSIM is the convenience factor. No more swapping out SIM cards or having to search for a SIM card retailer upon landing. With an eSIM, you can purchase and activate your data plan from anywhere in the world. This means you can connect to the internet as soon as you touch down in Turkey.
2. Dual SIM Functionality
eSIMs are particularly handy if you need to stay connected with your home country while abroad. Since an eSIM doesn’t require a physical slot, you can use it alongside your regular SIM. This enables you to receive calls and texts on your home number while using local data in Turkey.
3. Instant Activation
One of the most frustrating parts of buying a physical SIM card is the activation process, and sometimes it can take hours for the SIM to get activated. With an eSIM, the activation is instant, saving you valuable time and eliminating any stress when you land in Turkey.
4. Eco-Friendly
In a world that’s moving towards more sustainable travel practices, an eSIM is a great eco-friendly option. By going digital, you’re cutting down on plastic waste from traditional SIM cards, as well as all the packaging and shipping that goes along with them.
Best eSIM to use in Turkey
Nowadays, there are a huge number of eSIM providers to choose between. I’d recommend using SimLocal for your travels in Turkey. Here’s why:
Competitive Plans: SimLocal offers a wide range of affordable data plans for Turkey. You can select a plan depending on the length of your stay and how much data you plan to use. Plans range from $4 for 1GB data to $29 for unlimited data for 7 days.
Reliable Coverage: One of the key concerns when using a SIM card in a foreign country is the network coverage. SimLocal partners with local Turkish providers so the coverage tends to be pretty fast and reliable.
Easy Setup: SimLocal makes setting up an eSIM as simple as it gets. From purchasing your eSIM online to activating it through a QR code, everything is very intuitive.Good Customer Support: SimLocal offers great customer support in case you need help with setup or have any technical issues, so you don’t need to stress about being stranded without data.
How to Use an eSIM in Turkey
Using an eSIM in Turkey is incredibly simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you connected:
Step 1: Check Your Phone’s Compatibility
Not all phones are compatible with eSIM technology, so your first task is to check if your device supports it. A quick Google search or check in your phone’s settings will confirm if your device is eSIM-ready.
Step 2: Purchase Your eSIM Plan
Once you’ve confirmed your phone is compatible, the next step is to purchase your eSIM. This can be done before you leave for Turkey or after you’ve arrived. You can choose a suitable plan based on how long you’ll be in Turkey and how much data you’ll need while you are there.
Step 3: Scan the QR Code
After purchasing your eSIM, you’ll receive a QR code. Simply open your phone’s camera or QR code scanner and scan the code. Your device will automatically prompt you to install the eSIM, and in just a few clicks, you’ll be ready to go.
Step 4: Activate and Start Using Your Data
Once the eSIM is installed on your phone, all you need to do is activate it. You can toggle between your regular SIM and your new eSIM in your phone’s settings. I normally find it easiest to keep my local SIM active for texts and calls while using the eSIM for data purposes.
Planning a trip to Turkey? Read these articles next:
- 14 Foods You MUST Try in Turkey
- How to get a Digital Nomad Visa for Turkey
- 19 Best Things to Do in Istanbul
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