Back to eSIM Checker

eSIM Data Calculator

How Much Data Do You Actually Need?

Not sure how much data to buy for your trip? Our smart calculator helps you figure out exactly what you need based on your travel style and phone usage.

4-Step Data Calculator

Our calculator walks you through 4 simple steps to give you a personalized data recommendation:

  1. Step 1: Check Your Device - First, verify your phone supports eSIM. Enter your phone model and we'll check compatibility instantly.
  2. Step 2: Select Destination - Choose your travel destination from 200+ countries. We'll factor in local network quality and coverage.
  3. Step 3: Trip Details - Tell us how long your trip is (1-90 days) and select your trip type (Vacation, Business, or Digital Nomad). Also indicate how much WiFi access you expect.
  4. Step 4: App Usage - Select which apps you'll use most. Video streaming? Maps? Social media? We calculate data for each.

Data Usage by Activity

Here's how much data common activities use per hour:

ActivityData per Hour
Video Streaming (HD)1-3 GB
Video Calls (Zoom/FaceTime)0.5-1 GB
Music Streaming50-150 MB
Social Media Browsing100-300 MB
Maps & Navigation20-50 MB
Email & Messaging10-50 MB
Web Browsing50-100 MB
Online Gaming50-100 MB
Cloud BackupVariable (can be heavy)

Trip Type Recommendations

  • Vacation - Light to moderate usage. Maps, social media, occasional video calls home. Typically 3-5 GB per week.
  • Business Trip - Moderate to heavy usage. Video conferences, email, cloud documents. Typically 5-10 GB per week.
  • Digital Nomad - Heavy usage. Working remotely, video calls, streaming. Typically 10-20+ GB per week.

WiFi Access Impact

  • Always on WiFi - Hotel, Airbnb, cafes with reliable WiFi. Minimal mobile data needed.
  • Sometimes WiFi - Mix of WiFi and mobile data. Moderate data plan recommended.
  • Rarely WiFi - Mostly outdoors or moving around. Larger data plan needed.
  • No WiFi - Relying entirely on mobile data. Consider unlimited or large data plan.

Smart Tips to Save Data

  • Download maps offline before your trip
  • Use WiFi whenever available for large downloads
  • Disable auto-play videos on social media
  • Download music/podcasts before traveling
  • Set apps to "WiFi only" for background sync
  • Use data compression in your browser

Ready to Calculate Your Data Needs?

Use our interactive calculator to get a personalized recommendation for your trip.

Check Your Phone's eSIM Compatibility First