Internet supply for digital nomads - How do ESIM & Co. support mobile work across national borders?

From the lively cafes on Bali to Thailand's quiet beaches, the vineyards around Bordeaux to the co-working spaces in Lisbon. Digital nomads have the opportunity to set up their “office” at any location where a stable internet connection is available. Life as a digital nomade brings advantages, but also requires planning, some discipline and a sense of responsibility towards colleagues and work or clients.

While the image of the work on the beach on the Côte d'Azur or in the mountain panoramas of the Alps is tempting, the need for a fast mobile Internet is not taken into account enough. If you plan to work more often - maybe even want to lead a vanlife - you should deal intensively with the topic of mobile Internet. In addition, it makes sense to take useful tips from experienced nomads in order to be online successfully through national borders.

Access to reliable mobile data is of great importance for digital nomads, since they are dependent on a stable connection for video calls, project management and for exchange with customers and colleagues. For digital nomads, practices such as travel ESI , WLAN hotspots, mobile routers and satellite internet available. This article serves as a helpful guide to select the optimal internet solution for your trips.

​Why is stable internet indispensable for digital nomads?

For digital nomads, the internet connection is far more than just a comfort feature-it is an essential prerequisite. Regardless of whether you are self -employed, lead a company or work for an employer: your income depends crucially on the possibility of communicating in real time, accessing digital tools and achieving results.

Here are a few exemplary situations in which stable mobile data are essential:

• Video conferences : contact with the team or customers, if possible without interruptions of the connection.
• Project management: Use of applications such as Trello, Asana or Slack to keep an eye on tasks and deadlines.
• Navigation: With internet access, it is better oriented in new cities. You have the option at any time to access online cards and navigation applications. This makes it easier to discover co-working spaces or accommodations.
• Bookings and emergency contacts: Reservation of accommodations, tickets or excursions is much easier and faster if you have access to the Internet. In an emergency, the network helps to quickly locate the nearest medical facility or the police.
• Backup with unreliable WLAN: In many countries, public WLAN networks can be slow or unstable. Mobile data offer a reliable alternative.

In view of these requirements, it is crucial to have a mobile data solution that is flexible, reliable and cost -effective for different purposes.

Considerations: What you should pay particular attention to with a mobile data solution

• Cover and network quality: Make sure that the provider offers reliable and comprehensive network coverage in the places/regions relevant to you. Find out about the speed and stability of the network to ensure optimal performance. Most providers provide a network coverage card for this.
• Costs and benefits: Compare the prices of different offers carefully and choose an option that offers a balanced price-performance ratio in terms of your data consumption. In contrast to conventional roaming tariffs, ESIMs are often more attractive in terms of price.
• Flexibility and ease of use: prefer solutions that are easy to set up and handle uncomplicated. Due to their adaptability when switching between different tariffs without the use of physical SIM cards, ESIMs are again an advantageous option.
• Compatibility: Make sure that your device is compatible with the selected data solution. While most modern smartphones support ESIM technology, it is still advisable to check this before purchasing.

The 3 best internet options for digital nomads in comparison

The three best internet options, which are repeatedly called by digital nomads, travelers and vanlife enthusiasts, offer a reliable and powerful connection during travel. This includes the travel ESIM , the WLAN hotspot and satellite internet . These options are both convenient and inexpensive and enable quick access to the Internet via smartphone or laptop. Let us take a closer look at every approach.

In the past, the question was asked: roaming or local Sim?

Continue to use the contract from Germany with roaming or purchase a SIM card directly on site? This classic question was earned earlier before a trip abroad.

Local SIM cards are an excellent choice for longer stays abroad because they offer access to the best network coverage and a good price-performance ratio. They are available at airports and shops, but require a unlocked telephone and can bring linguistic challenges when buying. This option is still a choice for digital nomads that stay for several months and want to communicate inexpensively.

International roaming plans from home providers enable the use of the existing SIM card abroad, but are often expensive and are unsuitable for data-intensive applications. These solutions are better suited for short trips or stays where the change of SIM cards is to be avoided.

01 Travel ESIM

ESIM for international trips is one of the most advanced and most frequently used methods for mobile data connection. This technology, which has been available since 2018, enables a connection to the mobile network to establish a physical SIM card. The ESIM is installed directly into your smartphone, tablet or laptop, which means that you do not have to buy a physical card and insert it into your device to activate it.

This proves to be particularly advantageous when traveling, as you can book a package in advance and receive a rapid connection immediately after your arrival in the respective country. In addition, you benefit from a significantly better internet quality compared to roaming because you combine with a local provider.

ESIM technology enables both smartphones and laptops to use a stable internet connection without WLAN hotspots. To activate smartphones, you have to ensure that your device supports ESIM, choose a mobile phone provider and acquire a data package. After scanning a QR code or entering an activation code in the mobile phone settings, your smartphone is ready for use.

The same principle applies to laptops: check the ESIM support, select a provider and enter the activation code in the mobile phone network settings. So you are optimally networked at any time, be it for leisure or work.

The advantages of an ESIM at a glance:

• Comfortable activation: It is possible to purchase a tariff in advance and conveniently activate it through a QR code without having to visit a local dealer.
• Immediate use : Purchase and activate your ESIM conveniently online in order to connect to the local mobile networks immediately after your arrival.
• No replacement of the SIM card is necessary: ​​There is no need to carry several SIM cards, since only a virtual card is required, which can be set up individually on your device. Use your usual phone number for calls and SMS, while the ESIM is only used for mobile data.
• The SIM card is embedded directly in the device, which makes it less susceptible to physical damage or theft.
• Global networking: You benefit from a quick connection and a comprehensive network coverage in the region that you visit. ESIM providers such as Yesim enable access to over 200 travel destinations worldwide, so that you can easily stay online anywhere.
• Diverse data tariffs: opt for various data packages that are specially tailored to individual travel destinations or regions, and switch flexibly between these options if necessary.

In this choice, take into account that providers often only provide a limited number of gigabytes. This could be problematic for business trips, especially if video calls or cloud -based applications are used. We therefore recommend choosing an ESIM for vacation trips or calculating the expected data requirement in advance.

Yesim also contains unlimited data volume tariffs, which are a bit expensive (from € 2.14 per day for an ESIM for France ).

We can offer our readers for the provider Yesim following promocode: Yesim KUNSTPLAZA 10 . This gives you a 10 % discount on the first purchase.

02 TR Terms & Conditions are WLAN hotspots / mobile router

To work with your laptop, you need a WLAN connection that you can receive either via the hotspot of your smartphone (tethering) or an LTE router. Many travelers recommend using an LTE router, often from an economic point of view. However, it should be pointed out that some hardware routers do not allow manual network selection Be sure to check this before buying.

This small device enables access to the Internet via the mobile phone networks 3G, 4G or 5G. The functionality is very simple: you connect via WLAN to the hotspot, which then forwards the internet connection to your devices - be it smartphone, tablet, laptop or others.

This solution is particularly suitable for business trips or if you are on the road with several people, as several devices receive a reliable internet connection at the same time. Nevertheless, the benefit of a router should not be overestimated compared to a smartphone hotspot; If the cell phone is received well and a favorable data tariff with sufficient data volume, a router hardly brings any advantages.

In contrast to the use of an ESIM, more accessories are required for this variant: a TR Terms & Conditions Arer WLAN hotspot that is either operated with a battery or is supplied with electricity via a USB cable. You also need a SIM card from a local mobile operator to get access to the Internet.

Place an activated SIM card with a mobile internet into the router and press the network switch. The router automatically connects to the nearest mobile network (3G/4G/5G). Check the signal, switch on WLAN and search for the network created by the router, the SSID of which is specified on the device or in the instructions. Enter the password to connect and test access to the Internet by opening a website or online application.

With a mobile hotspot via the smartphone, there is also a few things to consider: High battery consumption is a central problem when using a mobile hotspot, as it quickly empties the smartphone. After 1-2 hours, the battery level can drop significantly, especially if there is no socket nearby. It is also important to choose a mobile phone contract with a high data volume, optimally also for the use of abroad. Also make sure to keep an eye on your data consumption, since cloud synchronization such as iCloud or Dropbox can quickly use large amounts of data.

In contrast to a mobile WLAN router, smartphones usually use several LTE frequency ranges at the same time, which enables them to open up a larger range and thus faster data transmission rates. If in doubt, you can save yourself the purchase of a router.

Overview of the advantages of a mobile WLAN hotspot:

• It is compact and takes up little space, which is why it is particularly suitable when you are traveling with a small suitcase.
• It also enables a reliable connection and gives you full freedom from local WLAN networks, while several devices can be connected at the same time.
• Mobile routers offer digital nomads a secure and reliable solution for remote work. You create a private WLAN network that protects against the risks of public networks and thereby ensure the safety of all connected devices.
• In addition, many models enable a connection to wired Ethernet networks so that faster internet speeds can be used, which avoids frustrations with weak signals.
• With integrated security features such as firewalls and encryption, you significantly increase the protection of the data-especially in combination with VPN use. The simple furnishings make mobile routers accessible to technically less experienced users.
• The cost efficiency of mobile routers convinces compared to international data tariffs or public WLANs.

Nevertheless, you should consider some aspects before you choose this type of internet connection: Since the router is operated via a battery, it is important to keep an eye on the state of charge and to charge the device regularly. The purchase or rent of such a device including a SIM card and tariff can sometimes be more expensive than other options for connection.

For example, the cost of the equipment is around 50 euros. If you want to save, it is advisable to acquire the router in your home country before the trip, as the prices at airports are often significantly higher. You should also take into account that some providers provide a limitation of the data volume, which may be used via a mobile device.

To avoid unpleasant surprises here, please read the general terms and conditions carefully and select the provider that best suits your needs.

03 Satellite internet

Satellite internet is the ideal solution for internet access in remote areas such as mountains or on boats, where conventional networks are missing. It uses satellites in orbit to transmit signals between the user and the network. The process begins by sending a signal to a satellite bowl, which is then reached to a floor station via a satellite.

To use satellite internet, first select a provider like Starlink who is particularly suitable for travel because it offers high speeds (up to 250 Mbit/s) and low latency. Detailed equipment includes a satellite dish, a modem as well as power supply and assembly options. The costs for this amount to around 500-1,000 euros for the Starlink kit plus monthly fees between 45 and 150 euros.

After arriving at the destination, you have to assemble the antenna so that it has an unimpeded view of the sky. Install the modem and check the signal reception via an app or display. If necessary, adjust the antenna position to optimize the internet speed.

Advantages and disadvantages of the satellite internet for travel:

A connection via satellite offers undeniable advantages compared to other communication methods.

• It works at every place in the world , even in areas without a mobile network.
• Furthermore, modern providers enable impressive internet speeds of up to 100–200 Mbit/s, so that you can easily work online, hold meetings and do your tasks.

The disadvantages are mainly associated with the need to acquire and take special devices for the connection. A free space is required for receiving the signal. In addition, the connection is sensitive to external influences such as rain, snow or strong wind that can affect the signal quality.

Which internet speed is sufficient?

This question becomes crucial in professional environments. For video calls and data-intensive applications, at least 15-20 MBPs required for upload and download to ensure smooth work. This is also confirmed by the Work -Anywhere experts from Beanywhere , who have extensively tested different internet options in the vanlife in the north of Norway.

I personally prefer at least 25 Mbps, since I have both my cloud hard drive and numerous cloud-based tools with real-time sync in the background that already " devour" . Especially the work on media files (for photographers, digital artists, content creatorn) that are saved via the cloud requires a large data contingent.

ping value , which is ideally below 80 ms, is also important Speedsmart tool to check your connection . Already from home, network coverage cards help with the planning of an internet connection. However, an exact speed forecast is not always apt. Without 4g or 5G, mobile work is often not possible because 3G is simply too slow.

Therefore, an unpleasant surprises are saved if you combine effective planning with flexible solutions and, if necessary, change in time, especially before important video meetings.

A few words about 5G

At the moment it is actually the case that the expansion of 5G in Europe has not yet been carried out across the board. Therefore, there are often no noticeable disadvantages if you do without 5G. The situation in Asia looks different, since 5G expansion has already progressed in many countries.

However, if you stay in Europe, it is currently not absolutely necessary to have a smartphone or a router with 5G support.

Reflections on cyber security and the Privacy for digital nomads

For digital nomads, cyber security be granted a high priority and maintain your own privacy during travel. In view of the growing dependence on remote work and the use of digital devices, it has become essential to ensure security on the Internet.

An effective method to improve your cyber security is to use a VPN (virtual private network) for your online security. Cyber ​​security is a central concern for digital nomads, since they are often connected to cafes, co-working spaces or accommodations with public WLAN networks. If you rely on such networks, you expose yourself to potential dangers such as hacking, Privacy injuries and identity theft.

A VPN is an extremely useful tool that encrypted your internet connection and anonymously anonymously, which makes it difficult to catch your data. It forms a safe tunnel between your device and the Internet and ensures that your online activities remain privately and protected. With a VPN you can surf the Internet anonymously, access geographically restricted content and protect your data while connected to public WLAN networks. In a separate contribution we the two best providers Surfshark and NordVPN directly .

In addition to using a VPN, there are further steps that you can take to secure your privacy when traveling. Be careful online when sharing personal data, avoid unsecured WLAN networks and regularly update the software and safety settings of your devices.

to use strong and unique passwords for all of your accounts to activate two-factor authentication For the administration and secure custody of passwords, I personally also recommend a password manager like Lastpass or Nordpass .

Public WLAN networks are known for their fuses of security. Hackers can intercept easily transmitted data via these networks and steal confidential information such as passwords, credit card data and personal documents. By using a mobile router instead of relying on public WiFi, you can set up your own private WLAN network and thus ensure that all of your devices are protected.

To improve your cyber security and protect your privacy while traveling, you should invest in a mobile router and configure it with a VPN. In this way you can work carefree remotely and rely on the fact that your online activities are safe and your sensitive data remain protected.

A few helping words about decision making

The Internet enables travelers in our digitized world to remain comfortable and connected. There are various options for a reliable connection, each with your own advantages and disadvantages. Various factors are crucial when choosing the optimal internet connection for digital nomads.

The type of travel affects the choice Terms & Conditions arer WLAN hotspot is recommended on the aircraft Satellite internet offers the best cover for traveling in the car or motorhome.

The travel purpose also plays a role: shops usually require a TR Terms & Conditions aren hotspot with a large data volume, while vacationers can make do with a standard ESI. A combination of ESIM and portable hotspot is ideal for digital nomads.

travel destination also decides: a virtual SIM card is often sufficient in cities, while remote areas need satellite internet. With the luggage size, users should tend to an ESIM with little space, whereas larger pieces of luggage allow additional devices. A WLAN hotspot is ideal for group trips in coastal regions, and satellite internet is necessary when camping in the mountains.