Caribbean eSIM Guide (2026) — Stay Connected Without Roaming

Quick Answer
An eSIM is the easiest way to get mobile data in the Caribbean without paying expensive roaming.
Buy it before your trip, install it on Wi-Fi, and turn it on when you land.

What an eSIM is (simple)
An eSIM is a digital SIM card you download to your phone. Most travel eSIMs are data-only (calls/text work through WhatsApp, iMessage, FaceTime, etc.).

Step 1: Check if your phone supports eSIM

Most newer iPhones and many Android phones do.
Quick test:

iPhone: Settings → Cellular → “Add eSIM”
Android: Settings → Connections/Network → SIM Manager → “Add eSIM”

Step 2: Decide what you actually need
Ask yourself:

Data only, or do you need calls/text?
One island or multiple islands?
Light use (maps + messages) or heavy use (TikTok + streaming)?

Rule of thumb:

Light: 1–3 GB for a week
Medium: 5–10 GB for a week
Heavy: 10–20 GB for a week (or unlimited if offered)

Step 3: Coverage matters more than price

When choosing an eSIM, look for:

The exact countries/islands included
Whether it’s “Caribbean regional” or single-country
Whether it uses major local networks (best reliability)

Important: some “Caribbean” plans don’t include every island. Always check the list.

Step 4: Install before you fly (on Wi-Fi)

Best practice:
1) Buy the eSIM
2) Install it while on home Wi-Fi
3) Leave it OFF until you land
4) At arrival: turn on the eSIM line + enable Cellular Data for it

Step 5: Don’t get hit with roaming fees

Do this before takeoff:

Turn OFF Data Roaming on your regular SIM
Keep your main SIM active only if you need calls/text
Set your eSIM as the data line

Travel hacks that actually help

Download Google Maps offline for your island
Screenshot ferry tickets, hotel address, and reservation info
Use WhatsApp for local contacts and tours
Carry a small power bank (data + navigation drains battery)

Common mistakes to avoid

Buying a plan that doesn’t include your island
Waiting to install until you land (airport Wi-Fi can be slow)
Leaving data roaming ON for your main SIM
Assuming “unlimited” means full speed (many plans slow down after a cap)

Quick Spanish Summary (Resumen en Español)
Un eSIM te da datos móviles sin pagar roaming caro.
Cómpralo antes del viaje, instálalo con Wi-Fi y actívalo al llegar.
Revisa que el plan incluya tu isla y apaga el roaming de tu SIM principal.

FAQ
Do I need an eSIM if my hotel has Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi helps, but mobile data is still worth it for maps, taxis, and day trips.
Can I keep my regular number?
Yes—keep your regular SIM for calls/text and use the eSIM for data.

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