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When travelling abroad — especially as a mum — staying connected isn’t optional. On my recent journey from London to Phuket with a toddler and a teenager, I wanted to avoid roaming charges, SIM card queues, and unnecessary stress.
I decided to use an eSIM, and while it made arrival much smoother, there were a few things I wish I’d understood beforehand. This post explains exactly how eSIMs work, how I used Airalo, what challenges I faced on arrival, and how you can avoid expensive mistakes when travelling internationally.
Why Staying Connected Matters When Travelling with Children
Travelling solo with children means data isn’t a luxury — it’s essential. Having mobile data immediately helped with:
- Messaging family to confirm we’d arrived safely
- Accessing hotel and transfer details
- Using maps and navigation apps
- Managing unexpected delays calmly
After a long-haul flight, the last thing you want is to rely on airport Wi-Fi or search for a SIM card desk.
What Is an eSIM?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM that allows you to activate a mobile data plan without inserting a physical SIM card. Most modern smartphones now support eSIMs.
This means:
- No swapping SIM cards
- No losing your main number
- No surprise roaming charges
You can switch between your regular SIM and your eSIM directly in your phone settings.
Using Airalo: My Real Experience
I used Airalo during my Thailand trip.
What worked well:
- I installed the eSIM before travelling
- I had mobile data as soon as we landed
- I could message family immediately on arrival
What caught me out:
- Switching the correct data line on landing
- Turning roaming OFF on my main SIM
- Knowing which SIM was actually being used
I noticed many people on the flight were also confused about this, so if you’ve struggled before — you’re not alone.
How to Avoid Roaming Charges (Step-by-Step)
- Download the Airalo app before travelling
- Install the eSIM while connected to Wi-Fi
- Label it clearly (e.g. “Thailand Data”)
- Turn Data Roaming OFF on your main SIM
- Use Airplane Mode on landing
- Select the eSIM as your mobile data line
Once this is set correctly, you can use mobile data without being charged by your home network.
How Much Can You Save? (UK Example)
UK networks like EE charge daily roaming fees outside Europe, which can quickly add up on a long trip.
You can view EE’s roaming charges here:
EE International Roaming Charges
Using an eSIM gives you more control over spending and avoids unexpected bills.
Where We Stayed in Phuket
We stayed at a Novotel resort in Phuket, which was extremely family-friendly and ideal after a long journey.
You can read my full, honest review here:
Novotel Phuket Review: Real Prices, Lounge Access & Family Experience
The service, facilities, and overall value made it a comfortable base while travelling with children.
Getting Around Thailand with Kids
Having mobile data on arrival made booking transfers and navigating Phuket much easier.
We pre-arranged our airport transfer, which removed stress after a long-haul flight — something I’d recommend when travelling with young children.
Travel Essentials I Actually Used
These are everyday travel items that genuinely helped on long travel days:
- Hydration: Stanley stainless steel cup
- Comfort & organisation: Wellness / travel journal
- Post-travel recovery: Magnesium oil spray
These links may include affiliate links. This helps support my blog at no extra cost to you.
Further Reading: Thailand Travel Series
- 7-Day Phuket Itinerary for Families on a Budget
- Novotel Phuket Review: What It’s Really Like with Kids
Final Thoughts
Using an eSIM removed a huge amount of stress on arrival, even though there was a learning curve. With the right setup, it’s one of the easiest ways to stay connected while travelling abroad.
If you’re travelling with children, especially long-haul, preparing your connectivity in advance can make the first day far calmer.
