1. What are my Wi-Fi and SIM options when traveling abroad?

1.1 The importance of internet connection abroad

Internet access has become a very important factor for travelers when traveling abroad. The Internet is essential for searching tourist attractions, using translation apps, checking local transportation and accommodation, and even staying in touch with friends and family. Especially when traveling abroad, travelers are often unfamiliar with the local infrastructure and culture, so the presence or absence of an Internet environment will greatly affect the comfort of their trip.

A stable Internet connection contributes greatly to the safety and convenience of travel. For example, it provides a source of information that can be used immediately in the event of an emergency or when you get lost, and allows you to instantly check information on transportation and local events. It is also common to make reservations for restaurants and activities online while traveling.

Furthermore, there are many different ways in which people use the Internet, such as sharing travel memories through social media and keeping records of their trips online. For this reason, a comfortable and stable Internet environment is an essential element for travelers to achieve both enjoyment and safety.

1.2 Difference between Wi-Fi router and SIM card

There are two main ways to connect to the internet when traveling abroad: a Wi-Fi router or a SIM card . Both allow you to communicate data locally, but each has different characteristics and advantages and disadvantages.

The appeal of Wi-Fi routers is that you can rent a portable router device and connect multiple devices to the Internet at the same time. For example, if you are traveling with family or friends, you can connect multiple devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops to one router, making it cost-effective. It is also easy to set up and can be used simply by connecting your device to Wi-Fi, making it suitable for people with little technical knowledge.

On the other hand, SIM cards are a means of communication that you insert directly into your smartphone. SIM cards have the great advantage of requiring less luggage, making them especially suitable for people who prefer simple travel. SIM cards are also cheaper than Wi-Fi routers, with daily communication costs typically running around 100 to 500 yen. However, to use a SIM card, you need a SIM-free smartphone , and if your device is SIM-locked, you will need to unlock it beforehand.

Wi-Fi routers and SIM cards are suitable for different usage scenarios: Wi-Fi routers are suitable for family and group trips, while SIM cards are suitable for individual travelers and those looking to keep costs down.

1.3 Which should you choose?

When choosing a means of internet connection when traveling abroad, the choice between a Wi-Fi router or a SIM card depends on your travel style and needs. Both options have their own advantages depending on the situation, but the following points will be important factors in deciding which one to choose.

Wi-Fi routers are ideal when you want to use the Internet on multiple devices or when you want to share a single router during group travel. The strengths of Wi-Fi routers are that they are easy to set up and can connect multiple devices at once. They are also ideal when you want to use a tablet or laptop in addition to your smartphone while traveling, or when you want to share with family and friends. On the other hand, they have the disadvantage of shortening battery life and increasing luggage, so you need to manage charging .

On the other hand, SIM cards are suitable for solo travelers who want to reduce the amount of luggage they carry and for travelers who want to keep costs down. Using a SIM card allows you to communicate with just one smartphone , which has the advantage of keeping costs down, especially for long trips or solo travel. However, you will need a SIM-free device to use one, and some technical knowledge is required to set it up. If you use a SIM card, it is recommended that you check the APN settings in advance.

In conclusion, it is important to make the best choice depending on the purpose of your trip, the number of people in your group, and the number of devices you will be using . If you are traveling in a group or will be using multiple devices, a Wi-Fi router is more suitable, while a SIM card is more suitable if you want to reduce your luggage or are traveling alone for a short trip.

2. Advantages and disadvantages of using a Wi-Fi router overseas

2.1 Convenience and features of Wi-Fi routers

When traveling abroad, a Wi-Fi router is a very convenient means of communication. First of all, its biggest advantage is that multiple devices can be connected at the same time . By using one router, not only smartphones but also tablets and laptops can be connected at the same time, which is particularly economical when traveling with family or in a group. In addition, the initial setup for connection is very easy; just turn it on and enter the password to use the Internet. This means that even those who are not familiar with technology can use it with confidence.

Another major feature is that it allows you to connect to the Internet over a wide area . Because it uses the local carrier's network, you can maintain a stable connection almost anywhere in the city or in tourist spots. This eliminates the need to search for Wi-Fi spots, and the fact that you can freely use the Internet even while on the move is a major benefit.

Using a Wi-Fi router is a great option, especially if you have multiple devices or are traveling in a group with multiple people who want to use the Internet at the same time. It is also easy to use for anyone as it does not require any special technical skills.

2.2 Precautions when using a Wi-Fi router

Wi-Fi routers are a convenient means of communication, but there are a few things to keep in mind when using them. The first and most important thing is that the battery drains quickly . Because Wi-Fi routers are constantly communicating, their battery life may be shorter than that of smartphones and other mobile devices. When going out for long periods of time in particular, it is important to either bring a mobile battery with you or manage your battery by frequently turning off the power.

You also need to be careful not to lose, have the router stolen, or damage it . If you are renting a Wi-Fi router, you need to manage it carefully.

Wi-Fi routers are convenient, but you should also take into consideration precautions for use, such as battery management and the risk of losing the device.

2.3 Points to consider when choosing a Wi-Fi router

There are a few important points to consider when choosing a Wi-Fi router for traveling abroad. First of all, communication range and supported countries are very important. Be sure to check whether the router's range covers the country or region you are traveling to. Some routers can only be used in certain areas, so if you are traveling across multiple countries, it is important to choose one that can be used over a wide area.

Next, data capacity and speed are also important to consider. Many Wi-Fi router plans have limits on the amount of data you can use, and exceeding that limit may result in a slower connection speed. It is important to predict how much data you will use and choose a plan that suits your needs. If you plan on streaming videos or using social media frequently, it is best to choose a plan with a large capacity.

Battery life is also an important point to note. If the battery runs out during a day of sightseeing, you won't be able to connect to the Internet, so be sure to check how long the battery lasts and whether you have a spare battery. If you plan to go out for a long time, we recommend that you use a model with a long battery life or carry a mobile battery with you.

Finally, you should compare prices and additional services . Prices and services offered vary from rental company to rental company. It's best to choose a company that offers a wide range of additional services, such as insurance with damage compensation and support in case the router breaks down.

When choosing a Wi-Fi router, it is important to comprehensively consider the supported countries, data capacity, battery life, price, etc. By choosing a router that suits your travel destination and usage situation, you can ensure a smooth Internet connection.

3. Advantages and disadvantages of using a SIM card overseas

3.1 Convenience and features of SIM cards

The biggest advantage of using a SIM card when traveling abroad is that it minimizes your luggage . You don't need to carry additional equipment like a Wi-Fi router; just insert the SIM card into your smartphone and you can connect to the Internet immediately. SIM cards are an ideal choice, especially for those who want to travel light and move around freely.

Another major benefit is that roaming costs are kept to a minimum by using a local carrier . If you use a SIM card, you can use data communications based on the local rate system, so you can access the Internet at a much lower cost than if you use international roaming. This is especially beneficial in terms of cost if you are staying for an extended period of time or if you use the Internet frequently.

Another advantage of SIM cards is that they allow you to make calls and send SMS . If you need to make calls or send SMS locally, inserting a SIM card will assign you a local phone number, which is useful for business purposes and reserving local services.

SIM cards are a very convenient option for travelers and long-term residents who want to reduce the amount of luggage they need to carry. They are especially ideal for those who do not plan to use the Internet on multiple devices at the same time, as with Wi-Fi routers, or who plan to use the Internet only on their smartphones.

3.2 How to set up the SIM card and points to note

In order to use a SIM card overseas, you will need to make some settings. First, before inserting the SIM card into your smartphone, check to see if it is a SIM-free device . Devices purchased from major carriers may be SIM-locked, so it is important to unlock them before you leave. SIM unlocking can be done at carrier stores or online.

Next, you need to set the APN (Access Point Name) . After inserting the SIM card, enter the APN information from the settings menu of your smartphone. The APN is a setting that specifies the Internet connection destination, and communication is not possible unless it is entered correctly. Usually, the settings are made based on the manual enclosed with the SIM card or the information provided by the place of purchase. This operation is somewhat complicated, so it is a good idea to check the operation procedure in advance.

It is also important to keep your original SIM card safe while you are using it. After replacing your Japanese SIM card during your trip, be careful where you store it so that you don't accidentally lose it. SIM cards are very small, so if you lose it, it can cause problems with communication when you return to Japan.

Setting up a SIM card requires preparations such as unlocking the SIM and setting the APN. This can be a little time-consuming, especially for those who are not familiar with setting up digital devices, so it is important to prepare thoroughly in advance.

3.3 Points to consider when choosing a SIM card

There are a few important points to consider when choosing a SIM card for traveling abroad. First, it is important to consider the amount of data and number of days you will be using it . SIM cards are available in a variety of plans depending on the length of your trip and the amount of data you will use. You can keep costs down by choosing a plan with a small amount of data for a short trip, or a plan with a large amount of data for a long stay or if you plan to use data frequently.

Next, check which countries and regions the card is compatible with. SIM cards use the network of a telecommunications carrier specific to that country or region, so you need to check that the communications environment at your travel destination is in place. Some SIM cards can only be used in certain countries or regions, so if you're visiting multiple countries, it's a good idea to consider a "global SIM card" or eSIM that can be used in multiple countries.

In addition, communication speed and stability are also important factors when choosing. Communication speeds vary depending on the local network conditions and the SIM card contract plan. If you frequently stream videos or download large files, it is recommended that you choose a plan that allows as high a communication speed as possible.

Finally, the price of a SIM card can vary depending on where you buy it and who is providing it. It is often cheaper to buy it locally , but if you are worried about the language barrier or setting it up, it is best to buy it in advance in Japan.

When choosing a SIM card, consider the amount of data, the countries it supports, the speed, and the price, and choose one that meets your travel needs. In particular, choosing the right plan for the country and period of your stay will ensure a smooth internet connection.

4. New options for eSIM

4.1 Overview and Mechanism of eSIM

eSIM (embedded SIM ) is a new technology that allows you to download profiles to a SIM chip embedded in your smartphone instead of inserting a physical SIM card into the device. Unlike traditional SIM cards, eSIM is provided in a digital format and its main feature is that it does not require replacing the SIM card itself and allows you to easily switch profiles remotely . For travelers, it is a convenient option that allows you to easily secure Internet connection, as it does not require the hassle of inserting and replacing SIM cards and profiles can be downloaded and used directly from the settings of your smartphone or device.

Using an eSIM is very simple. First, you need to have an eSIM-enabled smartphone or device, and then connect by scanning a QR code provided by your carrier or service provider, or by manually downloading the profile. This eliminates the need for a physical SIM card and allows you to easily access local data plans while traveling.

Another advantage of eSIM is that it allows you to manage multiple profiles , so you can switch between different profiles in different countries or regions, allowing you to maintain a smooth internet connection even when crossing borders.

eSIM is a convenient option, especially for international travelers and frequent business people, as it allows them to travel lighter without having to worry about losing or replacing SIM cards.

4.2 Advantages and disadvantages of using eSIM

There are many benefits to using eSIM . Firstly, there is no need for a physical SIM card; you can simply download a profile to the chip embedded inside your smartphone, which reduces the amount of luggage you need to carry and eliminates the risk of losing your SIM card. Not having to change SIM cards is a major advantage, especially for frequent travelers or those who travel between different countries or regions. In addition, you can easily switch profiles online , so you can easily use local communication plans every time you cross borders, allowing you to communicate at a low cost.

In addition, the ability to manage multiple profiles simultaneously means you can use different communication plans for different countries on a single smartphone, giving you the flexibility to choose the best communication method depending on your destination.

On the other hand, the disadvantage is that it requires an eSIM-compatible device . Not all smartphones support eSIM, so if you are thinking of using it, you should check in advance whether your device is compatible. Also, since an Internet connection is required to switch eSIM profiles, the initial setup at your travel destination may be time-consuming.

While eSIMs are highly convenient as a simple and flexible means of communication, you need to be aware of restrictions on compatible models and settings. It is a good idea to understand these features before considering using eSIMs as a means of communication when traveling abroad.

4.3 How to install eSIM

The introduction of eSIM is very simple and less hassle than the traditional method of inserting a physical SIM card. First, prepare an eSIM-enabled smartphone or device and download the eSIM profile provided by the carrier or service provider to your smartphone. The most common way to obtain the profile is to scan a QR code . This QR code is provided based on the communication plan you purchased, and you can easily set up the profile by reading it with your smartphone's camera.

Next, go to the "Mobile" or "Cellular Data" section of your phone's settings menu and add a new eSIM profile . Download the profile by scanning the QR code or using the URL provided by your ISP, and start using it automatically.

Another advantage of eSIM is that it is managed digitally, so you can hold multiple profiles at the same time . You can easily switch between different communication plans depending on your destination and usage. You can change your profile every time you move to a new country or region, so you can maintain a smooth Internet connection even when crossing borders.

Introducing an eSIM is an extremely easy, flexible and convenient way to communicate. Once set up, it eliminates the need to swap out physical SIM cards, making it an ideal communication method for people who travel a lot.

5. Summary: How to choose the communication method that suits you

5.1 Choices based on travel purpose and circumstances

When choosing an internet connection method for overseas travel, it is important to make the right choice based on the purpose and circumstances of your trip. For example, if you are on a short sightseeing trip, it is convenient to rent a Wi-Fi router and use the internet on multiple devices at once. Especially for group or family trips, it is cost-effective and easy to set up because everyone can use the internet at the same time with one Wi-Fi router.

On the other hand, SIM cards and eSIMs are more suitable for long-term stays and individual travel. SIM cards are ideal for people who want to reduce their luggage and do everything with one smartphone. They are also useful if you want to get a local phone number and make calls. In addition, eSIMs do not require the swapping of physical SIM cards, making them a flexible and efficient means of communication for travelers who travel frequently between different countries.

Choosing the right communication method for you based on the purpose and duration of your trip, and the use of your devices, is the key to ensuring a comfortable internet connection. A Wi-Fi router is convenient for short trips or those planning to connect to multiple devices, but a SIM card or eSIM may be more suitable for long-term stays or trips that involve frequent movement.

5.2 Differences between long-term stays and short-term trips

The needs for internet connection differ greatly between long-term stays and short-term trips . For short-term trips, stays of a few days to two weeks are common, such as sightseeing or short business trips. For this reason, a Wi-Fi router is convenient. Wi-Fi routers are easy to set up and can connect multiple devices at the same time, allowing you to use the internet efficiently during the limited time you are traveling. There is no need to search for Wi-Fi spots, and you can always get a stable connection, making them ideal for searching tourist information and navigating the area.

On the other hand, for long-term stays , where the stay can last for several months, using a SIM card or eSIM is more cost-effective. Long-term residents can reduce communication costs by using a SIM card or eSIM contracted with a local telecommunications company rather than renting a Wi-Fi router. Furthermore, SIM cards and eSIMs are convenient if you need to make calls or send SMS locally. Also, since long-term residents need to ensure stable communication for long periods of time for daily internet use, it is important to select the appropriate SIM card data plan.

For long-term stays, SIM cards or eSIMs are recommended to keep costs down, while for short trips, a Wi-Fi router is more convenient. Choosing the right communication method for the length of your stay will ensure a comfortable travel experience.

5.3 Comparison from the viewpoint of cost performance

Cost-effectiveness is an important factor when choosing a means of connecting to the Internet when traveling abroad. Wi-Fi routers, SIM cards, and eSIMs each have different characteristics, and their cost-effectiveness varies depending on the usage scenario.

First, Wi-Fi routers are an efficient choice for group or family trips because they allow multiple devices to connect at the same time. Sharing one router reduces the cost per person, making it especially cost-effective when multiple people are using it. Another major benefit is the convenience of being easy to set up and easy to use, even for those who are not familiar with digital.

On the other hand, SIM cards and eSIMs are a great option for solo travelers and long-term stays . These methods allow you to choose flexible plans based on your data usage and the length of your stay, which can help you save money in the long run. They are especially suitable for travelers who want to reduce the amount of luggage they need and who want to use only one smartphone for all their communications needs. eSIMs are also convenient for travelers who travel between countries frequently, as they do not require the need to swap physical SIM cards.

If cost performance is a priority , a Wi-Fi router is recommended for group use, while a SIM card or eSIM is recommended for personal use or long-term stays. By choosing the best option based on the number of devices you will use, the amount of data you will use, and the purpose of your trip, you can enjoy a comfortable internet connection while keeping costs down.

Leave your Wi-Fi needs while traveling abroad to ACROSS Wi-Fi!

Are you worried about connecting to the internet while traveling abroad? With ACROSS Wi-Fi, you can enjoy unlimited, high-speed, stable internet all over the world! You can enjoy watching videos and posting on social media without worrying about data limits. This plan is perfect for multiple people or long-term trips. With a simple pick-up and return system, your travel preparations will go smoothly. If you want to enjoy the internet overseas with peace of mind, be sure to use ACROSS Wi-Fi!

https://shop.smart-links.co.jp/pages/introduction