Dear Amber...

I finally paid off my overpriced (but beloved) iPhone, which means it’s unlocked and ready for an eSIM! I love traveling internationally, but I prefer to do it on a budget so I have more money for the fun stuff. Where do you recommend getting an eSIM that won't break the bank?

— Ready to Roam

Dear Ready to Roam,

Congratulations on paying off your iPhone! Now you'll have more money for what really matters: travel! (And a little less going into Apple’s pockets. But I digress!)

This is a fantastic question, and one I'm so glad you asked. Confession time: I used to be strictly "old school." I was a dedicated, physical SIM-card-buyer until I unexpectedly ran out of data in Australia and desperately needed to hail an Uber. A kind American let me use their hotspot and asked why I didn't just have an eSIM. At the time, I hadn't even heard of them!

I quickly learned that while they are a total game-changer, not all phones are eSIM compatible. To check if yours is ready to go, Airalo maintains a great, up-to-date list of compatible phones right here.

Personally, I use a Google Pixel 9 and I’m pretty happy with it. I am so glad I don't have to fiddle with swapping tiny SIM cards on an airplane tray table anymore. Plus, if you lose your original home SIM card while traveling, you’re in big trouble!

When it comes to choosing a provider, a hip traveler I met on an NCL cruise (shout out to Kino!) recommended that I download MobiMatter. I've found they consistently have the best prices. I do occasionally experience minor hiccups with their eSIMs, so when I need a rock-solid, highly reliable connection—even if it's a bit pricier—I use Saily or Airalo.

A few crucial eSIM pro-tips before you jet off:

• Follow the installation instructions carefully: Take your time setting it up before you leave.

• Turn on Data Roaming: Remember to set your new eSIM to "roaming" in your phone's cellular settings so it can connect to the local cell towers.

• Restart upon landing: If it doesn't connect the second your plane touches down, don't panic. You may just need to restart your phone.

• Never delete the eSIM: Even if it isn't working properly, do not delete it (I learned that one the hard way!). Once deleted, you usually can't recover it, and the fix is almost always just a simple settings tweak anyway.

It’s also worth noting that for some travelers, paying a few extra bucks through your regular home phone plan makes the most sense. Some carriers offer international day passes for as little as a few dollars a day, while others charge quite a bit more. Always do your homework with your specific provider before your international trip!

Got a burning travel question, a packing dilemma, or a destination debate? Send your letters to Ask Amber! I’d love to hear from you and help you plan your next great adventure.