Answers
eSIM vs roaming: which is cheaper for travel?
A prepaid travel eSIM is usually far cheaper than roaming. Carrier roaming day passes often cost around $10 or more per day (check your carrier), while F*ck Limits eSIMs give unlimited data from $1.55/day: Europe 7 days $20.93 and USA 7 days $25.99 on Unlimited. Roaming keeps your number for calls and SMS; a data-only eSIM keeps your number on WhatsApp and iMessage, and you can leave your home SIM on for SMS.
Side by side
| Travel eSIM (F*ck Limits) | Carrier roaming | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Prepaid, fixed. Unlimited data from $1.55/day | Day pass or pay-per-MB, set by your carrier |
| Surprise bills | None: you pay upfront | Possible if you exceed limits or forget a pass |
| Data | Unlimited every day (1, 3 or 10GB/day at full speed, then unlimited at reduced speed) | Often capped or slowed after a daily amount |
| Phone number | Data-only; WhatsApp/iMessage keep your number | Your number for calls and SMS |
| Setup | Install in under 2 minutes before you fly | None |
| Hotspot | Included | Depends on carrier |
When roaming still makes sense
If you need to make and receive normal phone calls and SMS on your number all day, or your phone is carrier-locked and cannot add an eSIM. Many travellers combine both: keep the home SIM on for SMS (roaming off for data) and use the eSIM for all data.
How to avoid roaming charges with an eSIM
- Install the eSIM at home on Wi-Fi.
- Set the eSIM as your Cellular Data line.
- Turn Data Roaming off on your home line and on on the eSIM line.
- Turn off "Allow Cellular Data Switching" (iPhone) so your home line is never used for data.
FAQ
Is an eSIM cheaper than roaming?
Usually, yes. F*ck Limits eSIMs start at $1.55/day for unlimited data, prepaid, with no roaming bill. Carrier day passes commonly cost more per day.
Will I still get calls and SMS on my number?
Our eSIM is data-only. Keep your home SIM on for calls and SMS (with data roaming off on it). Incoming calls and SMS while abroad may be charged by your carrier; WhatsApp and iMessage calls go over the eSIM data.
Can I use both at the same time?
Yes. Phones with eSIM support dual SIM: your home line for calls/SMS and the travel eSIM for data.
Can I get a refund if I end up not travelling?
Full refund within 14 days of purchase if the eSIM was never installed or activated; request it in the app (My eSIMs > Request refund). Installed or used eSIMs can't be refunded.
Updated 2026-10-12. Browse all destinations.