eSIM data guide
How Much eSIM Data Do I Need?
Not sure whether to buy 1 GB or 10 GB for your next trip abroad? You're not alone — it's one of the most common questions we get at SIMOVO. The honest answer depends on how you actually use your phone, how long you're travelling, and whether you'll have reliable Wi-Fi at your hotel or Airbnb.
How much data does the average traveller use per day?
Most travellers use between 500 MB and 2 GB of mobile data per day when they're abroad. That figure jumps significantly if you're streaming video, using your phone as a hotspot, or working remotely. The calculator above is the quickest way to get a personalised estimate, but the table below gives you a solid starting point.
| Activity | Data per hour | Typical daily use |
|---|---|---|
| Google Maps / navigation | ~50 MB | 20–60 min |
| Social media (scrolling) | ~350 MB | 45–90 min |
| Music streaming | ~150 MB | Often hours |
| SD video streaming | ~1.5 GB | 30–60 min |
| HD video streaming | ~4.5 GB | 30–60 min |
| WhatsApp / messaging | ~15 MB | All day |
| Video calls (Zoom/FaceTime) | ~750 MB | 30 min |
Which eSIM data plan is right for my trip?
Here's a simple rule of thumb. If you're mainly using maps, messaging and social media, a standard 10 GB plan will comfortably cover a week away. If you're streaming video, using a personal hotspot, or working remotely from a café, you'll want either a larger data bundle or an unlimited eSIM plan.
- 1–3 GB: Short city breaks (2–4 days), light users who rely on hotel Wi-Fi
- 5 GB: Covers a week of light use comfortably
- 10–20 GB: The most popular choice. Frequent streaming, video calls, or longer trips up to two weeks
- Unlimited: Remote workers, content creators, digital nomads, and anyone who hotspots regularly
Does it matter which country I'm travelling to?
Not for how much data you'll use — your habits stay the same whether you're in Spain, Japan, or the USA. But it does matter for which plan you buy. SIMOVO offers country-specific eSIMs that connect you to local networks, giving you the same 4G and 5G speeds as a local SIM without the roaming charges. Check your destination using the search above.
Is an eSIM cheaper than roaming on my UK plan?
Almost always, yes. UK mobile networks typically charge £5–£10 per day for roaming add-ons, which adds up to £35–£70 for a week. A SIMOVO eSIM for the same trip often costs a fraction of that — and you know exactly what you're paying upfront, with no daily charge if you don't use it. There's no bill at the end of the month, no contract, and no surprise charges.
Tips to make your data last longer abroad
- Download offline maps in Google Maps or Apple Maps before you fly — navigation uses almost no data offline
- Stream music and podcasts in offline mode via Spotify or Apple Music
- Switch Netflix and other video apps to "SD only" when on mobile data
- Turn off background app refresh on iPhone, or Data Saver mode on Android
- Use hotel or café Wi-Fi for video calls and downloads
- If you hotspot regularly, go unlimited — it'll cost less than running out and needing a top-up
Calculate how much data you need
Move the sliders to match how you use your phone per day. We'll recommend the perfect plan.
Most travellers are happy with 5–10 GB for a week.
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Frequently asked questions
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It uses typical per-minute data rates and rounds down after steps so you land under the plan you pick. Heavy apps or HD video will use more.
Per day shows your daily usage multiplied by your days (the pill confirms). Per trip shows one total for your whole journey.
Top up or grab another SIMOVO eSIM in minutes. If you’re close to the limit, choose the next size up.
Most SIMOVO plans support personal hotspot. Check your plan details before purchase.
Most recent iPhone, Pixel and Samsung models support eSIM. See our Device Compatibility Guide.
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