Buying a SIM or an eSIM to travel in France: the practical guide

Having internet access the moment you arrive changes everything: routes, reservations, translations, payments, messages to loved ones… If you’re planning a trip, this guide helps you choose the best way to stay connected, with a focus on an eSIM for traveling in France (often the simplest option), jargon-free and with concrete advice.

Why have internet in France during your trip?

Even though France is a very tourist-friendly destination, relying only on Wi-Fi can quickly become frustrating. A mobile connection lets you:

• Use Google Maps stress-free (metro, buses, walking, real-time schedules).
• Book hotels, trains, activities, and restaurants at the last minute.
• Translate a menu, a station announcement, or chat more easily.
• Manage payments (banking, authentication, transit apps).
• Stay reachable in case of an emergency or a change of plans.

How to get internet in France: 3 options

1) Roaming with your current plan

If your plan includes roaming in Europe (often the case with some plans), you may be able to use internet in France without buying anything.

Pros: no setup, keep your usual number.
Cons: “fair use” limits, variable speeds, possible extra costs outside Europe.

2) Wi-Fi (hotels, cafés, stations)

Convenient… but not 100% reliable. And it limits your mobility (and security depends on the network).

3) Buy an eSIM or a local SIM (recommended)

This is the most controlled option: you choose a budget, a duration, and an amount of data that fits your trip.

eSIM or physical SIM: how to choose?

Choose an eSIM (often the best option)

An eSIM is purchased online, installed via QR code or an app, and activated quickly.

Ideal if you want to:

• be connected as soon as you land,
• avoid searching for a store,
• keep your current SIM in your phone.

Choose a physical SIM

Useful if your phone isn’t eSIM-compatible, or if you want a “classic” local number.

Plan for:

• finding a point of sale (airport, carrier shop, convenience/newsstand depending on offers),
• sometimes showing an ID (depending on the seller/operator’s rules).

Where to buy: before you leave or upon arrival?

Option A — Buy online before departure (recommended)

This is the most comfortable method: install the eSIM at home or at your hotel, then activate it on arrival (or just before).

Option B — Buy at the airport / in the city

Convenient if you’re not comfortable installing an eSIM. But it’s often more expensive, and you’ll lose time.

How to install and activate an eSIM (step by step)

1. Check eSIM compatibility for your phone (model + country of purchase).
2. Buy your eSIM plan.
3. You receive a QR code (or activation via an app).
4. On your phone: Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data/SIM → Add eSIM.
5. Name the line (e.g., “France data”) so you don’t mix it up.
6. Activate:
   • the eSIM line for mobile data,
   • your usual line for calls/SMS (if you want to keep it).

Which plan should you choose for traveling in France?

It depends on your usage, your trip length, and your travel style.

• City break (2–4 days): 1 to 5 GB is often enough (maps, messages, bookings).
• 1 to 2 weeks: 5 to 20 GB (daily GPS, social media, a bit of streaming).
• Remote work / heavy use: look for “generous” or “unlimited” offers (keeping in mind possible fair-use policies).

Recommendation: an eSIM purchase link (to customize for affiliate)

For a simple, very travel-friendly option, you can buy an eSIM online from a specialized provider.

👉 France eSIM purchase link:
Buy an eSIM for France

Popular alternatives (if you compare):

• Airalo — France eSIM
• Ubigi — France data plans
• Holafly — France eSIM (often “unlimited” depending on the offer)

Common mistakes to avoid

• Phone not unlocked: you can’t use a different SIM/eSIM.
• Phone not eSIM-compatible: some models (or versions) aren’t.
• Confusing “data-only” vs local number: some eSIMs provide internet only (no classic calls/SMS).
• 2FA / banking SMS: if you need to receive SMS, keep your primary line active.
• Installing without Wi-Fi: setup/activation often requires a connection at the start.

Quick FAQ

Does the eSIM work as soon as I land?

Yes, if you installed it beforehand and enable the data line upon arrival (or if your provider allows immediate activation).

Does an eSIM replace my current SIM?

No: you can keep your usual SIM for calls/SMS and use the eSIM only for data.

Local SIM or travel eSIM?

If you want simplicity → eSIM.
If your phone isn’t compatible → physical SIM.