Tourison/Travel essentials

Travel essentials

Most trips don’t go wrong at the big moments. They get awkward in the gaps, like landing with no data to call a ride, or checking out at 11am with a flight at 9pm. These are the two small things we set up before every trip.

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Stay connected with a travel eSIM

An eSIM is a SIM card built into your phone. Instead of hunting for a SIM shop at the airport, you buy a data plan online, scan a QR code or tap to install it, and switch it on when you land. Your usual number stays in the phone, so you can still get texts and calls from home if you want to.

Why it usually beats roaming: many home networks charge daily roaming fees or slow you down after a small allowance. A local or regional data plan bought for the trip is often the simpler option for maps, ride apps, translation and messaging. Check your own network’s roaming rates first, because some home plans already include travel data.

Before you buy, check three things:

  • Your phone supports eSIM. Most recent iPhones, Pixels and Samsung Galaxy phones do, but not every model or region.
  • Your phone is unlocked, so it accepts a plan from another provider.
  • The plan is data-only or includes a number. Most travel eSIMs are data-only, which is fine for WhatsApp and app calls.

Tip: install the eSIM at home on wifi, but turn it on only when you land, so the plan’s days start counting on arrival.

Luggage storage for check-out day

Hotels usually want you out by late morning. Flights, trains and night buses often leave hours later. A luggage storage service lets you drop your bags at a local shop or hotel partner near where you are, book online, and pick them up when you’re ready, so you can spend the last afternoon in the city instead of in a lobby.

When it helps most:

Tip: pick a drop-off point on your way to the airport or station, not in the opposite direction, and check its opening hours against your pickup time.

Frequently asked questions

Will an eSIM replace my normal SIM?

No. Most phones can hold your normal SIM and a travel eSIM at the same time. You choose which one to use for data, and you can keep your home number on for calls and texts.

Can I use WhatsApp with a data-only eSIM?

Yes. WhatsApp, iMessage and other app-based calls and messages work over mobile data, so a data-only plan covers them. Your WhatsApp account stays linked to your usual number.

When should I install the eSIM?

Install it before you leave, while you're on wifi, then switch it on after you land. Read your provider's instructions, because some plans start their validity when installed and others when first used.

What if my phone doesn't support eSIM?

Then you'll need a physical local SIM, usually sold at the arrival airport or in phone shops in town. Bring your passport, since many countries require ID to register a SIM.

Is it safe to leave bags in luggage storage?

Check the service's own terms before you book, including what protection it offers and any limits on value. Keep passports, cash, laptops and medicines with you either way.

Do I need to book luggage storage in advance?

Booking ahead secures a spot and lets you check the opening hours. In busy areas and in peak season, it's worth doing a day or two before.

Planning a specific trip? Start with our destination guides for the best months, costs and deals, or browse the blog for itineraries.