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The Travel eSIM Opportunity
The timing for travel eSIMs couldn't be better
From new kid on the block to industry standard: the rise and rise of eSIM has been remarkable to witness. Major manufacturers including Apple, Samsung, and Google have aggressively accelerated eSIM adoption across their device lineups, fundamentally changing how people connect globally.
For travelers especially, this technological shift eliminates the hassle of physical SIM cards. It also protects them from high roaming charges. With international tourism experiencing a remarkable post-pandemic resurgence, the demand for instant, affordable connectivity has never been higher. Travel eSIMs directly address this critical market need.
Industry growth projections are compelling.
*According to recent Kaleido Intelligence research, the travel eSIM market is set to reach an impressive $10 billion in retail spending by 2028. This explosive growth represents a significant revenue opportunity for businesses ready to capitalize on the digital connectivity revolution. The question isn't whether to enter the travel eSIM market—it's how quickly you can launch your offering.
Who Can Profit From
Selling eSIMs for Travelling?
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Mobile Network Operators (MNOs)• Recapture revenue lost to "silent roamers" who turn off data abroad
• Create new revenue streams from international travelers
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Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs)• Differentiate from competitors with travel-focused offerings
• Increase customer lifetime value with international solutions
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Travel Businesses• Create additional revenue streams while enhancing customer experience
• Keep customers engaged in your app or ecosystem while traveling
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Fintech and Financial Services• Add value to premium account offerings
• Differentiate from competitors with unique travel benefits
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Super Apps• Enhance ecosystem stickiness by keeping users on app
• Add high-margin travel eSIM as a new revenue stream
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Enterprise Solution Providers• Simplify expense management for corporate travelers
• Enhance duty of care capabilities with always-connected employees
Understanding Travel eSIMs:
How They Work & Why They Matter
Traditional SIM cards, those small plastic chips travelers needed to physically swap when changing networks, are being rapidly replaced by eSIM technology. An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built directly into your device’s hardware.
Unlike traditional physical SIM cards, eSIMs are programmable. They allow users to activate cellular plans digitally without needing to insert or swap physical cards.
Travel eSIMs transform the traveler experience through a friction-free process:
- Pre-trip purchase: Travelers buy an eSIM plan for their destination before departure
- Digital delivery: The eSIM profile is delivered via QR code or in-app activation
- Simple activation: Upon arrival, travelers activate their plan with a few taps
- Instant connectivity: Connection to local networks happens immediately
- Dual functionality: The primary phone number remains active on their physical SIM
This process eliminates virtually all traditional travel connectivity friction points: no more hunting for SIM vendors at the airport, no language barriers during purchase, and no more bill shock from high roaming charges once they’ve come home.
For businesses entering this market, the advantages extend far beyond simply selling connectivity:
- Digital-first operations: No physical inventory, distribution logistics, or retail space required
- Data-driven insights: Gain valuable analytics on customer travel patterns and usage behaviors
- Enhanced customer experience: Solve a genuine pain point that affects nearly all travelers
- Cross-selling opportunities: Connectivity serves as a gateway to offer additional travel services
- Recurring revenue potential: Create opportunities for ongoing customer relationships
Choosing the Right eSIM Partner: Critical Success Factors
One of the most strategic decisions when entering the travel eSIM market is choosing between building direct carrier relationships or leveraging existing platforms. Each approach offers distinct advantages:
Launching Your Travel eSIM Business: A Step-By-Step Guide
Step 1: Research & Planning
Begin with a thorough market analysis to position your offering effectively:
- Identify your target market segments
- Evaluate competitor offerings and pricing strategies
- Select your business model based on resources and capabilities
- Determine key travel destinations and required coverage
Deliverable: Comprehensive business plan with clear objectives, timeline, and success metrics.
Maximizing Revenue:
Pricing and Monetization Strategies
Developing an effective pricing strategy is critical for balancing customer appeal with profitable operations. Consider these proven approaches:
Business Models for Maximum Revenue Potential
Different revenue models suit different business types and customer segments:
Telna’s Solutions
Connect gives you the flexibility to create bespoke data packages, including plans that give access to specific apps, such as WhatsApp and social media.
Connect Flex accelerates your time to market by offering your customers the most popular prepaid plans.
Future-Proofing your eSIM Business
Staying ahead in the travel eSIM market means keeping an eye on key trends shaping the industry. These include:
Conclusion: Start Selling Travel eSIMs Today
The window for establishing your position in the travel eSIM market is narrowing. Now is the time to act and secure your competitive advantage.
Why Telna is Your Ideal Partner
Telna offers a comprehensive solution for businesses looking to enter the travel eSIM market:
- Unmatched global coverage: Connectivity in 200+ countries and territories with reliable service even in challenging markets
- Flexible integration options: From turnkey white-label solutions to comprehensive API access
- Competitive wholesale rates: Maximize your margins while offering attractive customer pricing
- Dedicated support: Expert guidance from implementation through ongoing operations
Frequently Asked Questions
While eSIM technology is becoming increasingly common, not all devices support it yet. Most newer flagship phones from Apple, Samsung, Google, and other major manufacturers include eSIM functionality. Users should check their device specifications before purchasing.
Yes! One of the major advantages of eSIM technology is the ability to maintain your primary phone number on your physical SIM while using the eSIM for data connectivity abroad. This ensures travelers stay reachable on their regular number while enjoying local data rates.
Activation is nearly instantaneous. Customers can purchase and activate their travel eSIM before departure or upon arrival at their destination. The entire process typically takes less than 2 minutes from purchase to connectivity.
The technical requirements vary based on your chosen implementation approach. With a white-label solution like Telna Connect Flex, minimal technical resources are needed so you could get started in a matter of hours. For bespoke integrations, you'll benefit from having developers but most implementations can be completed within 2-4 weeks.
Travel agencies can integrate eSIM offerings at multiple touchpoints in the customer journey: during booking confirmation, pre-trip communications, or through mobile apps. The most effective approach is presenting connectivity as a natural extension of the travel planning process, much as one would an insurance add-on for example.
Beyond basic sales metrics, successful eSIM programs monitor activation rates, data usage patterns, customer retention (repeat purchases for subsequent trips), support ticket volume, and net promoter scores. These indicators provide a comprehensive view of program performance and customer satisfaction.
Yes, Telna allow for seamless top-ups. Customers can purchase additional data through web portals or mobile apps without needing to acquire a new eSIM profile. These top-ups activate immediately, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity.
Travel eSIMs typically offer significantly better value than traditional roaming plans. Additionally, they provide local network speeds rather than the throttled connections often associated with roaming and offer greater transparency in pricing without unexpected charges.