Why eSIMs Beat Traditional SIM Cards for Asia Travel
Gone are the days of hunting for SIM card shops at Asian airports or paying extortionate roaming fees from UK networks. eSIM technology lets you activate a local data plan before your plane even lands — no physical card swapping, no language barriers at mobile shops, and no risk of losing your UK SIM.
For UK travellers, eSIMs are particularly practical because most modern iPhones (XR and later) and Samsung Galaxy phones (S20 and later) support them. You keep your UK number active for calls and texts while using cheap local data for maps, translation apps, and social media.
Country-by-Country eSIM Guide
Each Asian country offers different data allowances and validity periods. Singapore eSIMs typically provide 10-50GB over 7-30 days. Japan's eSIMs are essential since free WiFi is surprisingly limited outside Tokyo. Thailand offers some of the cheapest data in Asia, while Indonesia covers Bali and Java comprehensively.
Hong Kong and Indonesia
Hong Kong eSIMs work seamlessly with the city's excellent 5G infrastructure, giving you blazing speeds for video calls home. Indonesia's eSIMs cover all major tourist areas including Bali, Yogyakarta, and Jakarta, though remote island coverage can be patchy.
How to Set Up Your eSIM
The process is straightforward: purchase your eSIM through HolidaySG, receive a QR code via email, scan it in your phone's settings, and label it as your travel line. Most eSIMs activate within minutes. Set your travel eSIM as the primary data line and keep your UK SIM for calls only to avoid roaming charges.
Q: Will my UK phone work with an eSIM in Asia?
A: Most phones from 2019 onwards support eSIM. Check Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM on iPhone, or Settings > Connections > SIM Manager on Samsung.
Q: Can I keep my UK number active while using an eSIM?
A: Yes. Your physical UK SIM stays active for calls and texts. The eSIM handles data only, so you won't miss important calls from home.
Q: How much data do I need for a week in Asia?
A: Most travellers use 5-10GB per week. Budget 1-2GB per day if you're using maps, social media, and occasional video calls. Streaming video uses significantly more.
Q: Are eSIMs cheaper than UK roaming?
A: Significantly. A 10GB eSIM for 7 days costs £5-15 depending on the country. The same usage on UK roaming could cost £50-100+ with most networks.
Q: What happens if my eSIM data runs out?
A: You can purchase a top-up or new eSIM through HolidaySG. Most eSIMs also allow you to buy additional data through the provider's app.
Recommended Singapore Tours and Experiences
Singapore packs world-class attractions into a compact city-state. From thrilling theme parks on Sentosa Island to iconic skyline experiences, these are the must-book experiences that locals and seasoned visitors swear by.
Recommended Experiences
Here are some top-rated experiences you can book in advance to make the most of your trip:
Frequently Asked Questions
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What things cost in Singapore
Live HolidaySG prices for the experiences in this guide, so you can sanity-check a budget before you commit.
| Experience | Where | From price |
|---|---|---|
| #INSTAWALK: BUGIS, WATERLOO, KAMPONG GLAM | Singapore | From S$45.32 |
| +Twelve | Singapore | From S$127.05 |
| ABOUT MR. LEE | Singapore | From S$66.17 |
| Harry Potter Visions of Magic | Singapore | From S$41.79 |
| Action Motion | Singapore | From S$37.07 |
| Adventure HQ | Singapore | From S$65.55 |
| Alphard / Vellfire | Singapore | From S$34.43 |
| Ambassador Transit Lounge - T2, Changi Airport Singapore | Singapore | From S$36.85 |