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

From the lively cafés of Bali to the tranquil beaches of Thailand, the vineyards around Bordeaux to the co-working spaces of Lisbon, digital nomads have the opportunity to set up their "office" anywhere with a stable internet connection. Life as a digital nomad offers advantages, but also requires planning, some discipline, and a sense of responsibility towards colleagues and clients.

While the image of working on a beach on the French Riviera or amidst the mountain panoramas of the Alps is enticing, the need for fast mobile internet is often overlooked. Anyone planning to work remotely more frequently – perhaps even living a van life – should thoroughly research mobile internet options. Furthermore, it's advisable to consider helpful tips from experienced nomads to ensure successful online connectivity across national borders.

Access to reliable mobile data is crucial for digital nomads, as they rely on a stable connection for video calls, project management, and communication with clients and colleagues. travel eSIMs , Wi-Fi hotspots, mobile routers , and satellite internet are ideal for digital nomads . This article serves as a helpful guide to selecting the optimal internet solution for your travels.

​Why is a stable internet connection essential for digital nomads?

For digital nomads, an internet connection is far more than just a convenience feature – it's an essential requirement. Whether you're self-employed, run a business, or work remotely for an employer, your income depends crucially on the ability to communicate in real time, access digital tools, and achieve results.

Here are a few examples of situations where stable mobile data is essential:

• Video conferences : Contact with the team or customers, ideally without connection interruptions.
• Project management: Using applications such as Trello, Asana or Slack to keep track of tasks and deadlines.
• Navigation: Internet access makes it easier to find your way around new cities. You have access to online maps and navigation apps at any time. This makes it easier to find co-working spaces or accommodations.
• Bookings and emergency contacts: Reserving accommodations, tickets, or excursions is much easier and faster when you have internet access. In an emergency, the internet helps you quickly locate the nearest medical facility or police station.
• Backup in case of unreliable Wi-Fi: In many countries, public Wi-Fi networks can be slow or unstable. Mobile data offers a reliable alternative.

Given these requirements, it is crucial to have a mobile data solution that is flexible, reliable and cost-effective for various purposes.

Preliminary considerations: What you should pay particular attention to in a mobile data solution

• Coverage and network quality: Ensure that the provider offers reliable and comprehensive network coverage in the locations/regions relevant to you. Check the network speed and stability to ensure optimal performance. Most providers offer a network coverage map for this purpose.
• Cost and benefit: compare the prices of different offers and choose an option that provides good value for your data usage. Unlike traditional roaming plans, eSIMs are often more affordable.
• Flexibility and ease of use: Do you prefer solutions that are easy to set up and simple to use? Due to their adaptability when switching between different tariffs without the use of physical SIM cards, eSIMs once again represent an advantageous option.
• Compatibility: Ensure your device is compatible with the selected data solution. While most modern smartphones support eSIM technology, it's still advisable to check this before purchasing.

The 3 best internet options for digital nomads compared

The three best internet options, consistently cited by digital nomads, travelers, and vanlife enthusiasts, offer a reliable and high-performance connection while traveling. These include travel eSIMs , Wi-Fi hotspots , and satellite internet . These options are both convenient and cost-effective, allowing for quick internet access via smartphone or laptop. Let's take a closer look at each approach.

Previously, the question was: Roaming or local SIM?

Should you continue using your German contract with roaming or buy a SIM card locally? This was a classic question people used to ask themselves before traveling abroad.

Local SIM cards are an excellent choice for extended stays abroad, offering access to the best network coverage and good value for money. They are available at airports and in shops, but require an unlocked phone and can present language challenges when purchasing one. This option remains a choice for digital nomads who stay for several months and want to communicate cost-effectively.

International roaming plans from home providers allow you to use your existing SIM card abroad, but are often expensive and unsuitable for data-intensive applications. These solutions are better suited for short trips or stays where you want to avoid switching SIM cards.

01 Travel eSIM

One of the most advanced and widely used methods for mobile data connectivity is the eSIM for international travel. Available since 2018, this technology allows you to connect to the mobile network without a physical SIM card. The eSIM is built directly into your smartphone, tablet , or laptop, eliminating the need to purchase and insert a physical card to activate it.

This proves particularly advantageous when traveling, as you can book a package in advance and receive a fast connection immediately upon arrival in the respective country. Furthermore, you benefit from significantly better internet quality compared to roaming, since you are connecting to a local provider.

eSIM technology allows both smartphones and laptops to use a stable internet connection without Wi-Fi hotspots. To activate it on a smartphone, you need to ensure your device supports eSIM, choose a mobile network provider, and purchase a data plan. After scanning a QR code or entering an activation code in your mobile network settings, your smartphone is ready to use.

The same principle applies to laptops: Check for eSIM support, choose a provider, and enter the activation code in the mobile network settings. This ensures you're always optimally connected, whether for leisure or work.

The advantages of an eSIM at a glance:

• Convenient activation: It is possible to purchase a tariff in advance and activate it conveniently via a QR code, without having to visit a local retailer.
• Instant use : Purchase and activate your eSIM conveniently online to connect to local mobile networks immediately upon arrival.
• No need to swap SIM cards: Carrying multiple SIM cards is no longer necessary, as only a virtual card is required, which can be individually configured on your device. Continue using your usual phone number for calls and texts, while the eSIM is used exclusively for mobile data.
• The SIM card is embedded directly in the device, making it less susceptible to physical damage or theft.
• Global connectivity: You benefit from a fast connection and comprehensive network coverage in the region you are visiting. eSIM providers like yesim offer access to over 200 destinations worldwide, so you can easily stay online wherever you are.
• Diverse data plans: Choose from different data packages specifically tailored to individual travel destinations or regions, and switch flexibly between these options as needed.

When making this choice, keep in mind that providers often only offer a limited number of gigabytes. This could be problematic for business trips, especially when using video calls or cloud-based applications. Therefore, we recommend choosing an eSIM for vacations or calculating your expected data needs in advance.

Yesim also offers unlimited data plans, but these are somewhat expensive (from €2.14 per day for an eSIM for France ).

We can offer our readers the following promo code for the retailer yesim : YESIM KUNSTPLAZA 10. This will give you a 10% discount on your first purchase.

02 Tr Terms & Conditions are WLAN hotspots / mobile routers

To work with your laptop, you need a Wi-Fi connection , which you can get either via your smartphone's hotspot (tethering) or an LTE router. Many travelers recommend using an LTE router, often for economic reasons. However, it's worth noting that some hardware routers don't manual network selection . Be sure to check this before buying.

This small device enables internet access via 3G, 4G, or 5G mobile networks. It works very simply: you connect to the hotspot via Wi-Fi, which then forwards the internet connection to your devices – be it a smartphone, tablet , laptop, or others.

This solution is particularly well-suited for business trips or when traveling with several people, as it multiple devices to have a reliable internet connection simultaneously. However, the benefits of a router compared to a smartphone hotspot shouldn't be overestimated; with good mobile reception and a cheap data plan with sufficient data allowance, a router offers little advantage.

Unlike using an eSIM, this option requires more accessories: a Wi-Fi hotspot (see Terms & Conditions , which is either battery-powered or powered via a USB cable. You also need a SIM card from a local mobile network provider to access the internet.

Insert an activated SIM card with mobile internet into the router and press the power button. The router will automatically connect to the nearest mobile network (3G/4G/5G). Check the signal, turn on Wi-Fi, and search for the network created by the router, whose SSID is displayed on the device or in the manual. Enter the password to connect and test internet access by opening a website or online application.

When using a mobile hotspot via your smartphone, there are a few things to consider: high battery consumption is a major issue, as it quickly drains your phone's battery. After just one or two hours, the battery level can drop significantly, especially if there's no power outlet nearby. It's also important to choose a mobile data plan with a generous data allowance, ideally one that also allows for international use. Keep an eye on your data usage as well, since cloud synchronization services like iCloud or Dropbox can quickly consume large amounts of data.

Unlike a mobile Wi-Fi router, smartphones typically use multiple LTE frequency bands simultaneously, allowing them to access greater bandwidth and thus faster data transfer rates. In some cases, you can save yourself the expense of buying a router.

The advantages of a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot at a glance:

• It is compact and takes up little space, making it particularly suitable if you are traveling with a small suitcase.
• Furthermore, it enables a reliable connection and gives you complete freedom from local Wi-Fi networks, while allowing multiple devices to be connected simultaneously.
• Mobile routers offer digital nomads a secure and reliable solution for remote work. They create a private Wi-Fi network that protects against the risks of public networks, thereby ensuring the security of all connected devices.
• In addition, many models allow connection to wired Ethernet networks , enabling faster internet speeds and avoiding frustration caused by weak signals.
• With integrated security features such as firewalls and encryption, they significantly increase data protection – especially when combined with VPN use. Easy setup makes mobile routers accessible even to less technically savvy users.
• The cost-efficiency of mobile routers is compelling compared to international data plans or public Wi-Fi networks.

However, you should consider a few aspects before opting for this type of internet connection: Since the router is battery-powered, it's important to keep an eye on the battery level and recharge the device regularly. Purchasing or renting such a device, including a SIM card and data plan, can sometimes be more expensive than other connection options.

The cost of the equipment, for example, is around 50 euros. If you want to save money, it's advisable to buy the router before your trip in your home country, as prices at airports are often significantly higher. You should also be aware that some providers impose a data limit on the amount of data that can be used on a mobile device.

To avoid unpleasant surprises, please read the terms and conditions carefully and choose 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 unavailable. It uses satellites in orbit to transmit signals between the user and the network. The process begins with your device sending a signal to a satellite dish, which then travels via a satellite to a ground station and is transmitted back.

To use satellite internet, first choose a provider like Starlink , which is particularly suitable for travel due to its high speeds (up to 250 Mbps) and low latency. Detailed equipment includes a satellite dish, a modem, power supply, and mounting hardware. The cost for the Starlink kit is approximately €500-€1,000, plus monthly fees of between €45 and €150.

Upon arrival at your destination, mount the antenna so that it has an unobstructed view of the sky. Install the modem and check the signal strength using an app or monitor. Adjust the antenna position if necessary to optimize internet speed.

Advantages and disadvantages of satellite internet for travel:

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

• It works anywhere in the world , even in areas without a mobile network.
• Furthermore, modern providers offer impressive internet speeds of up to 100–200 Mbit/s, allowing you to work online, hold meetings and complete your tasks without any problems.

The disadvantages are mainly related to the need to purchase and carry special equipment for the connection. An unobstructed area is required for signal reception. Furthermore, the connection is sensitive to external influences such as rain, snow, or strong winds, which can impair signal quality.

What internet speed is sufficient?

This question becomes crucial in professional environments. For video calls and data-intensive applications, at least 15-20 Mbps upload and download speeds are necessary to ensure smooth operation. This is also confirmed by the Work Anywhere experts at beAnywhere , who extensively tested various internet options while van life in northern Norway, for example.

Personally, I prefer at least 25 Mbps, as I use both my cloud storage and numerous cloud-based tools with real-time sync in the background, which already consume . Working with media files (for photographers, digital artists, and content creators) that are stored in the cloud, in particular, requires a large data allowance.

ping value is also important and should ideally be below 80 ms. You can use the SpeedSmart . Network coverage maps can help when planning your internet connection from home . However, it's not always possible to make an accurate speed prediction. Mobile working is often impossible without 4G or 5G, as 3G is simply too slow.

Therefore, unpleasant surprises can be avoided by combining effective planning with flexible solutions and, if necessary, timely changes of location, especially before important video meetings.

A few words about 5G

Currently, 5G coverage in Europe is not yet widespread. Therefore, there are often no noticeable disadvantages to foregoing 5G. The situation is different in Asia, where 5G deployment is already more advanced in many countries.

However, if you are staying in Europe, it is not currently necessary to own a smartphone or router with 5G support.

Considerations on cybersecurity and Privacy for digital nomads

For digital nomads, cybersecurity a top priority, and protecting their privacy while traveling is paramount. Given the increasing reliance on remote work and the use of digital devices, ensuring online security has become essential.

An effective way to improve your cybersecurity is to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for your online safety. Cybersecurity is a key concern for digital nomads, as they are often connected to public Wi-Fi networks in cafes, co-working spaces, or accommodations. Relying on such networks exposes you to potential threats such as hacking, Privacy breaches, and identity theft.

A VPN is an extremely useful tool that encrypts your internet connection and anonymizes your IP address, making it much harder for hackers to intercept your data. It creates a secure tunnel between your device and the internet, ensuring your online activities remain private and protected. With a VPN, you can browse the internet anonymously, access geographically restricted content, and protect your data while connected to public Wi-Fi networks. In a separate article, we directly compared the two best providers, Surfshark and NordVPN .

In addition to using a VPN, there are other steps you can take to protect your privacy while traveling. Be careful when sharing personal information online, avoid unsecured Wi-Fi networks, and regularly update the software and security settings of your devices.

It's advisable to use strong and unique passwords two-factor authentication . For managing and securely storing passwords, I personally recommend a password manager like LastPass or NordPass .

Public Wi-Fi networks are notorious for their security vulnerabilities. Hackers can easily intercept data transmitted over these networks and steal sensitive information such as passwords, credit card details, and personal documents. By using a mobile router instead of relying on public Wi-Fi, you can set up your own private Wi-Fi network and ensure that all your devices are protected.

To improve your cybersecurity and protect your privacy while traveling, you should invest in a mobile router and configure it with a VPN. This allows you to work remotely with peace of mind, confident that your online activities are secure and your sensitive data remains protected.

A few helpful words to aid decision-making

The internet allows travelers in our digital world to stay comfortable and connected. There are various options for a reliable connection, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Several factors are crucial when choosing the optimal internet connection for digital nomads.

The mode of travel influences the choice : On airplanes, an eSIM or a Wi-Fi hotspot is recommended (see Terms & Conditions , while an eSIM is also useful for train or bus journeys. For travel by car or campervan, satellite internet offers the best coverage.

the trip also plays a role: Businesses usually require a dedicated Terms & Conditions with a large data allowance, while vacationers can manage with a standard eSIM. For digital nomads, a combination of eSIM and portable hotspot is ideal.

destination also plays a role: In cities, a virtual SIM card is often sufficient, while remote areas require satellite internet. Regarding luggage size, those with limited space should opt for an eSIM, whereas larger luggage allows for additional devices. For group trips in coastal regions, a Wi-Fi hotspot is ideal, and satellite internet is essential for camping in the mountains.