eSIM vs Pocket WiFi: Which is Better for Travel in 2025?
Deciding between an eSIM and a pocket WiFi for your trip? We compare cost, convenience, battery life, and coverage to help you choose.
Published 2025-01-12 · Updated 2025-01-25 · TripSIM Team
Two of the most popular options for staying connected while travelling are eSIMs and pocket WiFi devices. Both give you internet access abroad without roaming charges, but they work very differently. In this comparison, we'll help you decide which is the better choice for your travel style.
What is a Pocket WiFi?
A pocket WiFi (also called a mobile hotspot or MiFi) is a small portable device that connects to local mobile networks and creates a personal WiFi hotspot. You connect your phone, tablet, and laptop to it just like connecting to any WiFi network. They're typically rented for the duration of your trip.
Convenience Comparison
- eSIM: No extra device — activate from home, instant setup, nothing to return
- Pocket WiFi: Must collect/ship device, keep it charged, return after trip
- eSIM: Always in your phone — no forgetting it at the hotel
- Pocket WiFi: Easy to leave behind, lose, or damage during travel
Cost Comparison
Pocket WiFi rentals typically cost £5–£12 per day, plus delivery and return fees. A 14-day rental can easily cost £80–£150. eSIM plans for the same period start from £10–£30 depending on data and destination. For solo travellers, eSIMs are almost always cheaper.
When Pocket WiFi Might Be Better
- Travelling in a group — one device can connect 5–10 phones
- Your phone doesn't support eSIM
- You need to connect non-phone devices like laptops or cameras
- You want to share internet with travel companions easily
When eSIM is the Better Choice
- Solo travellers or couples — no extra device needed
- Minimalist packers — nothing extra to carry or charge
- Spontaneous travellers — buy and activate in minutes
- Multi-country trips — regional eSIMs cover many destinations
- Anyone who values simplicity and convenience
Battery Life Factor
Pocket WiFi devices have a separate battery that typically lasts 6–10 hours. If it dies, everyone connected loses internet. With an eSIM, your connectivity depends on your phone's battery — which you're already keeping charged. No extra device to manage, no extra charger to pack.
Our Verdict
For the majority of travellers in 2025, an eSIM is the superior choice. It's cheaper for individuals, more convenient, requires no extra devices, and offers the same (often better) coverage. Pocket WiFi still has a niche for groups and non-eSIM devices, but its days as the go-to travel connectivity solution are numbered.
Can I tether my phone's eSIM to other devices?
Yes, you can use your phone's personal hotspot feature to share your eSIM data with laptops, tablets, and other phones — effectively turning your phone into a pocket WiFi.
What if I need internet for my laptop while travelling?
You can tether your phone's eSIM connection to your laptop via personal hotspot. This gives your laptop internet access without needing a separate pocket WiFi device.