Data Roaming

Data Roaming helps you access essential services such as maps, translation apps and local services, making navigation and communication much easier. It ensures you can quickly find your way, understand the language and stay informed about local events and services.

Stay in touch with family and friends through messaging apps, emails, and social media. Data roaming lets you share your travel experiences in real-time and keep up with important updates from home.

In case of emergencies, having data roaming activated allows you to contact your Tour Host, local authorities, medical services, or your embassy without delay. It’s a crucial safety net when you’re far from home.

How to get Data Roaming

The three main Data Roaming Providers in New Zealand are Spark, OneNZ and 2Degress. See below for each providers Data Roaming Packs and how to get them.

Spark

• Spark offers Roaming Packs to help you stay connected in 60 destinations around the world. You can add a Roaming Pack to your Prepaid or Pay Monthly plan for $30. You will get 2GB of data, 300 minutes of outgoing calls, 300 minutes of incoming calls, and 300 texts for 14 days. Prices are shown in NZD and include GST.
• To see which packs are available in which country, visit the Spark website using the link below and enter the country you are planning to visit in the drop-down menu. This will also provide the rates if you don’t buy a pack.
• International Roaming: Travel with your mobile | Spark NZ

OneNZ

• Data Roaming with One NZ only works once you have landed.
• You can call, TXT, and use data in over 100 destinations.
• To make sure you can use your mobile without worrying about costs, remember to download the My One NZ
• You can track your usage while you’re away, pay your bill, top up or buy more data.
• To download the app, search My One NZ in the Google Play store for Android (Samsung) or in the App store for iOS (Apple).
• If you’re on one of OneNZ’s current Endless Mobile Plans, then you should be able to use Daily Roaming, which is just like using your everyday plan but with a simple daily charge of $8. It’s available in over 100 destinations!
• If you are on an older Pay Monthly plan, then visit the Data Angel Overseas page for your roaming rates.
• Or if you’re on a Prepay plan, you can check out OneNZ’s Prepay roaming bundles.
• By sea or air?
  It’s worth checking the maritime roaming costs if you’re taking a cruise, or planning to use in-flight roaming on the plane, as they vary and are different from standard roaming rates.

2Degrees

• With 2Degrees, you can use your NZ plan for just $8 per day in over 100 destinations worldwide.
• There’s also Roaming Data Add-ons for faraway places. And it just works – activating when you hop off the plane.
• To see which packs are available in which country, visit the 2Degrees website using the link below and enter the country you are planning to visit in the drop-down menu. This will also provide the rates if you don’t buy a pack.
• International Roaming | 2degrees

In summary, data roaming is essential for maintaining connectivity, accessing essential services, staying safe, and managing both personal and professional tasks while travelling internationally.

e-SIM

An e-SIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card that allows you to activate a cellular plan from a carrier without having to use a physical SIM card. This is particularly beneficial for frequent travellers who can now switch between carriers and plans without the hassle of changing SIM cards. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get an e-SIM for universal travel.

Benefits of an e-SIM for Travelers

1. Convenience: No need to buy and carry multiple SIM cards.
2. Flexibility: Easily switch between carriers and plans.
3. Cost-Effective: Access to local rates without international roaming charges.
4. Environmentally Friendly: Reduces plastic waste from physical SIM cards.

How to Get an e-SIM for Universal Travel

1. Check Device Compatibility

Before you can get an e-SIM, ensure your device supports it. Most modern smartphones, including the latest models from Apple, Samsung, Google, and others, support e-SIM. Check your device’s specifications or consult the manufacturer’s website.

2. Choose an e-SIM Provider

Several providers offer e-SIM services tailored for travellers. Some popular options include:

• Airalo: Provides e-SIMs for over 190 countries.
• GigSky: Offers plans for travellers in multiple regions.
• Truphone: Provides global plans suitable for frequent travellers.
• Nomad: Offers flexible plans for various countries.

3. Purchase an e-SIM Plan

Once you’ve chosen a provider, visit their website or download their app to purchase an e-SIM plan. You’ll need to select your destination(s) and the duration of your stay to find the most suitable plan.

4. Install the e-SIM

After purchasing your e-SIM, you will receive a QR code or an activation code. Follow these steps to install it:

For iOS (Apple) Devices:

• Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan.
• Scan the QR code or enter the activation code provided by the e-SIM provider.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

For Android (Samsung) Devices:

• Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Add Carrier.
• Scan the QR code or enter the activation code.
• Follow the prompts to activate the e-SIM.

5. Configure and Activate the e-SIM

Once the e-SIM is installed, configure your device settings. Ensure the e-SIM is set as your primary data line if you want to use it for internet access. You can also manage your e-SIM settings to switch between different profiles as needed.

6. Enjoy Seamless Connectivity

With your e-SIM activated, you can now enjoy seamless connectivity as you travel. No more worrying about buying local SIM cards or facing exorbitant roaming charges. Simply switch to the relevant e-SIM profile for the country you’re in, and you’re good to go.

e-SIM technology is revolutionizing the way we stay connected while traveling. With its convenience, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness, it’s a must-have for any modern traveller. By following this guide, you can easily get an e-SIM and enjoy seamless connectivity on your next adventure. Safe travels!

Data Roaming vs e-SIM

When deciding between using an e-SIM and sticking with normal data roaming on your primary phone plan, it’s essential to understand the key differences in terms of cost, convenience, flexibility, and overall functionality. Here’s a breakdown of how e-SIMs compare to traditional data roaming:

Cost

e-SIM

• Local Rates: e-SIMs often provide access to local rates in the country you’re visiting, which can be significantly cheaper than roaming fees.
• Multiple Options: You can shop around and choose from various e-SIM providers to find the best deals and plans suited to your travel needs.
• Prepaid Plans: Many e-SIMs offer prepaid plans, allowing you to manage and control your expenses without unexpected charges.

Normal Data Roaming

• Roaming Charges: Using your primary phone plan for international roaming can result in high costs due to roaming charges imposed by your home carrier.
• Roaming Packages: Some carriers offer roaming packages or plans, but these can still be more expensive than local rates provided by e-SIMs.
• Hidden Fees: There’s a risk of incurring unexpected fees, especially if you exceed the data limit included in your roaming package.

Flexibility

e-SIM

• Global Coverage: e-SIMs provide access to a wide range of carriers and plans globally, making it easy to find suitable options for multiple destinations.
• Customizable Plans: You can choose plans tailored to your specific data needs and travel duration.
• Easy Switching: Switching between different e-SIM profiles is simple and can be done through your device’s settings.

Normal Data Roaming

• Limited Options: You are limited to the roaming agreements and packages offered by your primary carrier.
• Fixed Plans: Roaming plans may offer limited flexibility in terms of data limits and pricing structures.

Functionality

e-SIM

• Dual SIM Capability: Many modern smartphones support dual SIM functionality, allowing you to use both your primary SIM and an e-SIM simultaneously. This is particularly useful for separating personal and travel-related communication.
• Reliable Connectivity: e-SIMs provide reliable connectivity as they connect to local networks directly, often resulting in better network performance compared to roaming.

Normal Data Roaming

• Single Network: Your phone will roam on partner networks, which might not always offer the best coverage or performance.
• Phone Number: Using your primary SIM for roaming means you keep your phone number active for calls and texts, which might be necessary for some travellers.

Conclusion

While both e-SIMs and normal data roaming have their advantages, e-SIMs generally offer more cost-effective, flexible, and convenient options for international travel. They provide access to local rates, multiple carrier options, and the ability to manage multiple profiles without the need to swap physical SIM cards. On the other hand, normal data roaming is straightforward and keeps your phone number active, but it often comes with higher costs and less flexibility.

Choosing between the two depends on your travel needs, budget, and how often you travel internationally. If you travel frequently or for extended periods, an e-SIM is likely the better option. For occasional trips, especially if you need to maintain your primary phone number, normal data roaming might suffice despite the higher costs.