Not sure how to get online abroad? Beyond a traditional travel SIM, there are actually four ways to stay connected while travelling: a physical SIM, pocket Wi-Fi, carrier roaming, and eSIM. This article rounds up all four options with a comparison table, plus how to buy one and choose the right data plan — so you can shop with confidence and stay connected on the go~

How do you choose a way to get online abroad? 4 options compared!

With so many options for staying connected abroad, which one is right for you? Do not worry — DJB has laid it all out below, so you can see which fits you best~

OptionSIM cardeSIMPocket Wi-FiCarrier roaming
How to activateSwap in the SIM, ready to use with no setupScan a dedicated QR code to activateCarry a Wi-Fi router; needs chargingApply through your home carrier
Best forLonger trips1. Shorter trips
2. Anyone with last-minute data needs
Group travelAnyone with last-minute data needs
CallsSome plans support callingCalls via your home number-Calls via your home number
Cost (Japan example)DJB unlimited: NT$190/dayDJB unlimited: NT$230/dayJapan Wi-Fi router rental: NT$110/day, limited device countChunghwa Telecom example: NT$298/day, 2GB
Pros1. Flexible duration and data options
2. Not shared with others
3. Better value than roaming
1. No physical SIM swap, easy activation
2. No setup — calls and texts still go through your home number
3. Flexible duration and data options, unrestricted use
Can be shared among a group at once1. Uses your home number, billed directly on your monthly statement
2. No APN setup needed, works right away
ConsRequires a SIM swap,
with some risk of losing the original SIM
Phone must support eSIM1. Limited number of connected devices
2. Must stay near the router, limiting movement
3. Requires carrying a charger and the router itself
Going over your data allowance
gets expensive fast

How to choose a travel data plan: FAQ

Where can you buy a travel data SIM?

Local SIM cards are usually available at the airport or in-country, but if you would rather avoid any language barrier, you can buy a travel data SIM from DJB before you go — with a wide range of data and duration options, plus 24/7 English and Chinese live chat support ready to help with anything data-related.

How do you pick the best-value data plan?

Generally, 1GB gets you around 200,000 LINE messages, 80 hours of navigation, 40 hours of voice calls over data, 2 hours of video streaming, or 5 hours of continuous web browsing — so choose your travel data plan based on how you expect to use it.

Usage typeTexting and looking things upPosting photos, maps and navigationStreaming, gaming, business travel
Daily usage<500MB1GB>1GB
Recommended plan1GB>1GBUnlimited

How do you receive your SIM or eSIM?

Buying an eSIM from DJB just means checking your email, then scanning the QR code to install and activate instantly — no setup needed. Physical SIM cards can be collected in several ways, including pickup at Taoyuan Airport, at a convenience store, or delivered straight to your door — whichever is most convenient.


Recommended Japan data plans

DJB connects directly with all four major Japanese carriers — NTT Docomo, SoftBank, KDDI and Rakuten — pooling their combined network resources for denser coverage, so you get a smooth connection even during peak hours!

Japan dataData planHow to activateRecommended product
SIM cardUnlimited, no throttlingSwap in the SIMDJB Daijobu Unlimited ULTRA
eSIMUnlimited dataScan a QR code online to activateDJB eSIM Daijobu Unlimited

Recommended Korea data plans

DJB partners directly with SKT, one of Korea's leading carriers, on a dedicated high-bandwidth connection, giving you a comprehensive network experience.

Korea dataData planHow to activateRecommended product
SIM cardUnlimited, no throttlingSwap in the SIMDJB Korea Wave SIM
eSIMUnlimited dataScan a QR code online to activateDJB eSIM Korea Wave

Recommended Thailand data plans

DJB partners with Thailand's local carrier DTAC for a fast, reliable connection, with stable signal and speed even in busy city centres.

Thailand dataData planHow to activateRecommended product
SIM cardUnlimited, no throttlingSwap in the SIMDJB Southeast Asia SIM
eSIMUnlimited dataScan a QR code online to activateeSIM Singapore/Malaysia/Thailand

Now that you have read this far, have you already picked your travel buddy for the trip? Before you go, do not forget to grab a DJB data SIM and enjoy a smooth, uninterrupted travel experience!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C86w7BO1L6Y