June 5, 2025, 6:00 am | Read time: 4 minutes
Roaming costs or the search for a local SIM card are often unavoidable hassles for many travelers. However, Vodafone aims to put an end to this. The network provider has announced the launch of a digital travel platform and a new option called “Travel eSIM”—ready for use in over 200 travel countries and more than 700 mobile networks worldwide.
In many European countries, travelers can rely on regulated EU roaming, which allows mobile internet use under the same conditions as at home. However, outside the EU, costs can quickly add up if you haven’t booked a roaming data package or purchased a foreign SIM card. Many still wonder what the best option for vacation is. This is where Vodafone aims to step in with a new offer. The network provider has launched the so-called “Travel eSIM.”
Travel eSIM Usable in 200 Countries and Over 700 Mobile Networks
The Travel eSIM can be booked on a newly established online platform. A benefit for customers is the quick activation. Even those heading straight on vacation can book the option without advance notice, as the eSIM can be activated and used directly via QR code.
Available plans offer data volumes from 1 to 150 GB and a duration of up to 90 days. Vodafone promises an option for nearly every travel destination, as the Travel eSIM works worldwide in over 200 countries and is compatible with more than 700 mobile networks—without the need to switch SIM cards. The requirement is that the smartphone supports eSIM, which is now the case with most high-end models and a variety of mid-range devices.
Beware of Cost Traps! Calls and SMS Abroad Not Covered
Vodafone’s Travel eSIM is intended solely for mobile data use. Customers cannot make calls or send SMS with it. Vodafone refers customers to their existing mobile plan, but caution is advised. Using a German SIM card to make calls or send SMS outside the European Union can incur high roaming charges. The exact fees depend on the mobile provider, the chosen plan, and the country of stay.
For calls from a non-EU country to Germany or within the country you are in, costs typically range from 1.50 euros to 5.00 euros per minute. It can be particularly expensive to call from one non-EU country to another, with prices exceeding 5.00 euros per minute possible. Incoming calls outside the EU can also cost between about 1.00 and 3.00 euros per minute.
Sending SMS from outside Europe usually costs between 0.39 euros and 0.99 euros per message. Receiving SMS is generally free, even outside the EU.
Also read: Beware of Cost Traps! What to Consider When Using Your Phone on Vacation
Solution for Calls Abroad
To avoid these costs, it is advisable to book special roaming packages or “Travel” options with your provider before traveling. However, this would counter the simplicity of Vodafone’s Travel eSIM, which boasts easy booking and activation. Alternatively, travelers can use free services like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Signal for calls and messages over Wi-Fi or the Travel eSIM’s mobile internet.
Those staying abroad longer should consider purchasing a local SIM card or an eSIM with its own phone number for better local accessibility.
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Prices and Data Packages of Vodafone’s Travel eSIM
The Travel eSIM from Vodafone can be booked on a dedicated website. Customers first select their travel destination from a list and then specify how much data they need and how long they want to use the option. The number of required eSIMs can also be specified here.
The activation of the Travel eSIM is done in four steps:
- Select data package on travel.vodafone.com
- Receive QR code via email
- Activate eSIM abroad
- Start surfing, streaming, and navigating immediately
Prices are reasonable, though slightly higher than those of a local prepaid SIM card, according to TECHBOOK samples. However, a local SIM must be purchased on-site—a hurdle some travelers avoid. Vodafone’s rates start at 4 euros for Europe, 6 euros for North America, 8 euros for the Middle East, and 10 euros for Africa. Billing is done in various currencies like euros or U.S. dollars. Depending on the package, the eSIM remains active for up to 90 days. Discounts are available for multiple Europe eSIM purchases, with 15 percent off for two bookings, 20 percent for three, and 25 percent for four.
The Travel eSIM supports 5G, hotspot functionality, and can be used alongside an existing SIM—such as in dual-SIM mode. It does not offer a separate phone number.