Choosing the Right Data for your eSIM

Heading off on your holidays? Choosing the Right Data for your eSIM can be a minefield, but dont worry I have you covered. Let’s be honest, there’s nothing worse than running out of data halfway through a trip, especially when you’re trying to find your hotel, check restaurant reviews, or post that perfect sunset shot.
We have been travelling across the world in the last few years, and recently I have been using eSIM’s but had no idea which bundle to choose. How do you know how much data to buy? Too little data? Instant regret. Too much? Money wasted.

How to Choose the Right Data for your eSIM Bundle for Your Holiday

During our recent trip to Thailand, we discovered the ease of an eSIM to be so simple, allowing me to stay connected to everything I needed back home.

So, I’ve created this quick, no-nonsense guide to help you get it right, based on my real travel experiences and with the help of easySim, my go-to for simple, reliable travel eSIMs.

How Much Data Do You Really Need?

It depends on how you use your phone while travelling. Here’s how I break it down after trial and error:

Light User (1–3 GB/week)

Great for checking maps, messaging friends, a bit of Googling and quick photo uploads. This is me when I’m trying to be digital-detox Donna.

Moderate User (3–6 GB/week)

Perfect if you’re like me on a scenic trip—posting stories, video calling family, and using apps like Instagram and WhatsApp regularly.

Heavy User (7+ GB/week)

When I’m working remotely, editing reels, uploading content, or binging Netflix in the evenings, this is what I need. Digital nomads, this one’s for you.

My Data Tips by Trip Length

Here’s what I recommend based on how long you’re away:

• 1 Week Holiday → 3GB
  Great for city breaks or short escapes—especially if you’ll have Wi-Fi in your hotel.
• 2 Week Holiday → 5GB
  You’ll likely use more maps, guides, and streaming time while you unwind.
• 3+ Weeks / Remote Work → 10 GB or more
  Go big! I’ve learned the hard way that running out abroad is not fun. Choose a plan with longer validity and a decent cap.

Why I Use an eSIM (and You Should Too)

Honestly, switching to eSIMs changed everything for me. No more roaming shock bills, hunting down dodgy airport SIMs or swapping tiny plastic cards. With eSIM’s, I just scan a QR code and boom, I’m connected.

Some perks:

• I keep my UK number active for texts or banking codes
• I can install it before I even leave the country
• It’s way cheaper than roaming charges (don’t even get me started…)
• Keeping tabs on usage is so simple and they send alerts at 50% and 80% of usage
• Topping up is super ‘easy’ and the data gets added to your existing eSIM – no need to install again. Time saver and stress free!

My Favourite eSIM Bundles from easySim

Here’s a cheat sheet of the bundles I’d recommend from easySim to make choosing the Right Data for your esim based on how long you’re away at top destinations:

Quick Travel Data Tips from Me

• Download offline maps before you go, it’s a lifesaver.
• Check hotel/Airbnb Wi-Fi, but don’t rely on it.
• Use a VPN when connecting to public hotspots (always).
• Pre-load Google Translate for areas with patchy service.

Have you been that person sitting on a foreign curb with no signal and no way to get an Uber? Never again.

That’s why I use travel eSIM’s now, they are fast, flexible, and I trust them wherever I go. Whether you’re travelling for fun, work, or something in between, choosing the right data bundle is just one less thing to worry about.

Check out travel eSIM plans here and travel smarter, like I finally learned to.