Staying safe online while travelling: eSIM versus public Wi-Fi
While travelling, you quickly connect to the first free Wi-Fi at the airport, in the hotel or a café. Handy, but those public networks carry real risks for your data. An eSIM, with your own connection, is a simple way to travel more safely. This guide explains why and how.
The risks of public Wi-Fi
A public Wi-Fi network is shared by many strangers and isn't always well secured. On such a network, bad actors can sometimes intercept what passes through, especially on poorly secured sites. Fake networks, which mimic the name of a known place, also occur. So for banking or logging in to sensitive services, public Wi-Fi is far from ideal.
An eSIM: your own connection
With an eSIM you use your own mobile data connection, just like at home. You don't depend on a shared, unknown network. For sensitive matters such as paying and banking, that's clearly safer.
This is an often-forgotten benefit of the eSIM, alongside the convenience. For the bigger picture, see eSIM or roaming.
The good habits while travelling
| Situation | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Banking and paying | Use your own eSIM connection |
| Using public Wi-Fi | Avoid sensitive actions |
| Important accounts | Turn on two-factor authentication |
| Unknown network | Close sensitive apps and log out |
You receive the codes for two-factor authentication on your home number, which you keep active via dual SIM.
Enough data so you're not tempted
Using your own connection instead of public Wi-Fi consumes data. So choose a volume that's generous enough, so you don't go looking for a questionable network out of data shortage. Our guide how much data do you need while travelling helps you choose.
Frequently asked questions
Is public Wi-Fi really dangerous?
For ordinary browsing it's not too bad, but for banking and logging in to sensitive services it brings risks. Use your own connection for that.
Is an eSIM safer than public Wi-Fi?
Yes. You use your own mobile data, just like at home, instead of a shared unknown network.
Do I still need a VPN?
A VPN adds extra protection if you do have to use public Wi-Fi, but the basic rule remains to use your own connection for sensitive matters.
Conclusion
Public Wi-Fi is handy but risky for your sensitive data. An eSIM gives you your own connection, much safer for banking and paying. With a few good habits and a generous data volume, you travel connected and at ease. At esimzu you receive your eSIM instantly by email.