Martin Lewis has endorsed a simple travel hack that could save UK holidaymakers hundreds of pounds on their next trip abroad. The MoneySavingExpert founder recommends using an eSIM to avoid expensive mobile roaming charges that can quickly escalate holiday costs.
The financial expert shared his personal experience using an eSIM during a recent trip outside Europe. Lewis said: "As I was going out of Europe for just under 10 days, I picked a one-month 10GB eSIM for £18. My own network charges well over £6 a day for a 500MB daily data limit."
Dramatic cost savings demonstrated
Traditional roaming charges would have cost Lewis more than £60 for the same trip, making the eSIM option three times cheaper. The larger data allowance also provided significantly better value compared to restrictive daily limits imposed by conventional roaming packages.
Lewis described the technology as delivering excellent performance throughout his journey. "I got a strong 4G signal virtually everywhere, and used the internet with the freedom and speed of home," he explained. "The 10GB limit lasting my whole time away smacks the bottom of a 500MB daily limit, as you don't need to worry about busting it with one download."
The setup process proved remarkably straightforward. "Overall, a very simple experience. Then, when I got home, I just switched the phone settings back to my normal SIM in seconds," Lewis added.
Rapidly expanding global market
The eSIM technology sector is experiencing explosive growth, with up to three billion eSIM connections currently operating worldwide. The market commands an £8 billion valuation, with industry analysts forecasting expansion to £36 billion by 2032.
Arif Reza, CEO of UK eSIM provider WorldSIM, highlighted growing consumer demand for predictable mobile costs. "We've definitely seen a rise in holidaymakers wanting an eSIM, it provides peace of mind when going away, knowing exactly how much data you're using," he said.
Brexit impact drives adoption
The end of "roam like at home" rights for UK travellers in Europe has accelerated interest in alternative solutions. Reza noted: "Brexit brought the end of 'roam like at home' for UK travellers in Europe, and I think this has definitely pushed people to explore their options when going away."
Remote workers are increasingly adopting eSIMs to enhance their connectivity and work flexibility. The prepaid structure offers complete cost transparency, ensuring travellers know exactly what they're spending before departure without risking unexpected bills that can reach hundreds of pounds.
Sources used: "Chronicle Live", "Birminghammail" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
