Main Takeaways:
- Paris has a multitude of internet access options for travelers, ranging from eSIMs to free public networks.
- Picking the best option for your trip can depend on your unique travel preferences, as well as your travel itinerary.
- Overall, using an eSIM tends to be the most reliable and budget-friendly choice when it comes to the multitude of internet Paris travel options.
What are the Best Options for How to Get Internet While in Paris?
Traveling can be a stressful experience. From buying your plane ticket to packing, the one thing you don’t want to have to worry about is having internet access. No matter why you are traveling to Paris, it is essential to have convenient internet access. From navigating the metro to working remotely, being able to stay easily connected will make your trip smoother and far more enjoyable. The good news is that Paris has multiple convenient ways to stay connected. From eSIMs to roaming data, you have a multitude of internet Paris travel options to choose from. Below is a breakdown of the top 5 options and when each option might work best for you on your travels.
Are you a first-time traveler and want to use USIMS? Check out How To Get Your Free eSIM for Travel.
eSIMs
The first option is usually the most popular among international travelers. eSIMs tend to be the easiest and most efficient way to get internet access in Paris.
An embedded SIM (eSIM) is a digital version of the physical SIM card you would normally have in your phone. Instead of having to insert a chip into your phone to get cellular data, an eSIM lets you download a mobile plan to your device, which can connect to local networks wherever you go. Most travelers love eSIMs because they:
- Have an easy-to-use mobile app that allows you to keep track of each plan you have purchased.
- Allow you to turn eSIMs on and off and easily switch between them.
- Need no physical SIM, everything remains digital.
- Have no wait time; your plan works immediately when you make it to your destination.
- Let you keep your mobile number.
Using eSIMs also offers you the flexibility you don’t really get with any of the other options on this list. Most providers have plans that range from a few days to a few months, to even unlimited data plans. Providers like USIMS will even give you your first eSIM for free with plans starting at only $9.00 for 10GB. You do need to make sure your device is compatible, but most providers are compatible with modern carriers from Apple to Sony. eSIMs are perfect for both short and long-term trips, for anyone traveling on a budget, and for travelers who want the most convenient setup option with zero hassle.
Local SIM Card
The next option on our list of the multitude of internet Paris travel options is similar to an eSIM. Purchasing a prepaid SIM card when you arrive in Paris can be a good, cost-effective option. A local SIM card works in the same way as an eSIM. Helping you connect with local networks in your destination. Although, unlike an eSIM, you do need to buy a physical card. You can purchase SIM cards at airports like Charles de Gaulle or Orly, phone shops in the city, and local convenience stores. The most popular tend to be either Relay or Orange Holiday.
Travelers like using local SIM cards because they:
- Tend to have affordable data rates; most are between €10 and and €30.
- Give you a local phone number for calls/texts, which can be super helpful for longer stays.
- Tend to have super strong coverage on major networks all around the city.
- Don’t have to worry about planning ahead; they can simply get the card when they land.
When it comes to the cons, most travelers get stuck on the difficult setup. In order to use a local SIM card, you will have to swap out the card already in your phone. Some people are able to switch it by themselves, but for most, you need to find a place that will do it for you. Airports also tend to upcharge these cards because they know they will be in demand. If you need data right away after you land, this option can actually have you losing money instead of saving it.
Local SIM cards tend to be best for longer stays or travelers who want to have a local number. If you want to get a local SIM, the best thing you can do is research ahead of time and see where the cheapest option is/where they will swap the SIM for you. If you feel confident in your tech skills, this option can be a great way to get affordable data.
Like this guide and want more? Check out our comparison guide of eSIMs vs. physical SIMs.
International Roaming Data
have to get a new number or switch out your SIM card; your phone will just work wherever you are traveling. You don’t have to go through the hassle of finding an eSIM or SIM card. All you have to do is talk to your carrier, and they can add a plan to your account. Even though this option is convenient, it can get pretty expensive.
Most carriers charge you daily for roaming data, or you may have the option for pay-as-you-go rates. Carriers like Verizon and AT&T charge around $12 for a day pass and between $0.50-$3 for pay-as-you-go options. No matter which way you choose, these fees can easily add up. Especially if you are traveling on a budget. Roaming data options also tend to have many limitations. Things like slower data speeds, hidden fees or overage charges, and surprises when you see your coverage bill.
Using roaming data tends to be best when it comes to shorter trips. The convenience can easily outweigh the savings if you need data immediately. Especially for an unexpected travel day, like a missed flight or a new experience added to your itinerary. You have the ability to purchase and add on the data by communicating directly with your home carrier.
Looking for more travel planning tips? Check out the complete France Travel Preparation guide.
Wi-Fi Hotspot
The next option on our list of the multitude of internet Paris travel options is probably something you already have set up. Using a Wi-Fi hotspot can be a reliable way to connect to the internet while also connecting multiple devices all at once. A hotspot can easily connect you to the internet even when you don’t have access to Wi-Fi. This can be a great option for families or groups who will be traveling together for the entire trip.
Most iPhones tend to come with built-in hotspots. But if your device doesn’t come with one, you can buy a portable hotspot. This will allow you to create a secure network you can connect to. Travelers like to use this option because it tends to be the most secure. You don’t have to worry about hackers or unstable local networks.
While the convenience and security are a great thing, buying a portable hotspot is an extra device you need to get and carry around with you, and extra charges. No matter which option you choose, device or portable hotspot, you will need to purchase your own data plan. Carriers like Verizon offer a basic plan with 15GB of data for $20 a month.
Using a hotspot can really eat up data plans. Meaning you usually end up paying way more than you plan to. Hotspots tend to really only be useful if you are traveling in a group or if you know you are going to be doing a lot of remote work and need a reliable internet connection.
Free Public Wi-Fi
The final option on this list of the multitude of internet Paris travel options is truly the simplest. You just use free public Wi-Fi wherever you can find it. Because Paris is a travel hub, many cafes, restaurants, hotels, and public spaces offer free Wi-Fi. Using this option means you never have to worry about any kind of plan or setup before you travel. You can simply get to Paris and connect.
However, this option is not always reliable or secure. Some places can have spotty Wi-Fi access, which you may not know about until you need to use it. You can also have a lot of trouble with hackers stealing your data while being connected to insecure networks. Even though this option is truly the most convenient and inexpensive, it is also the most unreliable. Using public Wi-Fi should really only be used sparingly and as a backup option. Especially if you are traveling alone, you should never rely on public Wi-Fi to navigate and stay connected.
Looking for more Wi-Fi related tips? Check out our list of how to get free Wi-Fi wherever you go.
So, What Is the Best Choice?
Paris is a huge city. It matters to always have access to the internet. While you are traveling, only one option is the most reliable. Using eSIMs is fast, affordable, and removes all the usual stress of traveling. By using this option, you never have to worry about swapping SIM cards or running out of data while in the city. But each traveler is unique. Each of these options can be used differently depending on how much time you are spending in Paris and what type of data plan you need. Hopefully, this guide has given you the best information on the multitude of internet Paris travel options you can choose from, making sure you find the right match for your trip.
