The freedom to open your laptop anywhere in the world is fantastic, but without a stable internet connection, you're nowhere. Whether you're working from a hip coffee shop in Bali or a secluded villa in Portugal, a reliable connection is your lifeline. In this guide, we explain why an eSIM is indispensable for every digital nomad.
Why Local Wi-Fi Isn't Enough
We all know the struggle: the Wi-Fi in your Airbnb is slow, or the network in that cute cafe keeps dropping during your Zoom call. As a digital nomad, you simply cannot afford to be offline.
Additionally, data security is a major concern. Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured, putting your business data or personal information at risk. With an eSIM, you use the secure 4G or 5G network of local providers, which is much safer than the public Wi-Fi at the airport or your hostel.
eSIM: Your Ideal Hotspot
One of the biggest advantages of an eSIM for workations is the ability to use your phone as a hotspot. Buy a generous data plan (e.g., 50GB or Unlimited) and connect your laptop directly to your phone.
- Speed: Often faster than local Wi-Fi.
- Reliability: You are not dependent on the owner's router.
- Flexibility: Work from the beach, on the train, or in the mountains.
Tip: Choose a regional eSIM (e.g., 'Europe' or 'Asia') if you plan to travel through multiple countries. This way, you don't have to keep buying a new plan.
The 2FA Dilemma: How to Stay Reachable?
A common problem for digital nomads is two-factor authentication (2FA). Banks, government services, and many work accounts send SMS codes for verification. If you take your primary SIM card out of your phone to insert a local SIM, you miss those codes.
The Solution with eSIM: Because an eSIM is digital, you can use it alongside your regular physical SIM card (Dual SIM).
- Keep your primary SIM card active for calls and SMS (without data roaming).
- Use your eSIM for all your data traffic.
This way, you still receive that SMS code from the bank, while you tune into your Teams meeting via cheap local data.
Popular Workation Destinations & eSIM
- Bali (Indonesia): Local SIM cards can be bureaucratic (IMEI registration). An eSIM works immediately upon landing.
- Portugal: Excellent 5G coverage in cities like Lisbon and Porto. Ideal as a backup for sometimes inconsistent home internet connections.
- Thailand: Perfect for island hopping without constantly looking for Wi-Fi passwords.
Tip: Not sure where to go yet? Check Nomads.com for inspiration and the best places to live and work as a digital nomad.
Conclusion
A workation is the ultimate way to combine work and travel, but don't let bad Wi-Fi ruin your adventure. With an eSIM, you always have your own secure office in your pocket, wherever you are.
Planning your next workation? Check our eSIM plans and ensure you're connected as soon as you land!