International Roaming

What is a Travel SIM Card & How Does it Work?

Published on: July 12, 2024

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In this hyper-connected world, staying in touch while traveling abroad is not just a luxury but a necessity. Seamless communication across borders is paramount, whether for business or leisure. A travel SIM card, also known as an international SIM card, is a handy tool for staying connected when you travel abroad. But what exactly is a Travel SIM card, and how does it work? Moreover, how does it compare to activating an international roaming (IR) pack before traveling? Let us delve deeper and help you make an informed choice for your next international trip.

Understanding Travel SIM Cards:

When you travel and insert a travel SIM card into your unlocked phone, it connects to a local mobile network in that country. This way, you will use the local network infrastructure for calls, texts, and data.

Read on to understand how you will benefit from activating an international roaming pack before your travels.

Benefits of Activating Vi International Roaming Pack Before Traveling

  1. Seamless Connectivity: No need to fumble with a new SIM card or worry about device compatibility. Use your existing device and phone number for calls, texts, or data while traveling internationally.
  2. Budget Control: Choose a Vi International roaming pack that fits your travel style and data needs. Predefined Vi roaming packages prevent bill shock and unwanted charges.
  3. Familiar Network: Enjoy peace of mind, knowing you are connected through your trusted Vi network partners, ensuring reliable coverage in most destinations.
  4. Fast Activation: Activate your Vi international roaming plan with a few clicks on the Vi App or website. Alternatively, you can activate a Vi roaming pack for a later date based on your travel schedule, so you would not be required to wait for activation upon arrival.

While international roaming offers many benefits, here is why a Travel SIM card might not be as effective.

Some Drawbacks of Travel SIM Cards:

  • Multiple Numbers: Using a travel SIM means a new phone number, making it inconvenient for friends and family to reach you.
  • Activation Hassles: Activation processes can be complex, requiring internet access or communication with the network operator's customer service, which might not be readily available upon arrival.
  • Hidden Costs: While base rates might seem attractive, travel SIM cards often have additional charges for data usage, calls, and SMS, especially when roaming outside the telecom provider's network. These fees can quickly add up.
  • Compatibility Concerns: Not all travel SIM cards work with all mobile phones. Double-check compatibility before you travel to avoid connectivity woes.

Activate a Vi international roaming pack before your travels for significant cost savings and convenience. 

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frequently asked questions

The New Vi REDX 1101 comes loaded with Lifestyle & Entertainment benefits. Every benefit is of premium category, offering an uncompromising experience. Please visit plan benefits page on Vi App for details.

There is no exit fee if you move from any older version of REDX plan to the new one.

Exit Fee will be charged when if you move out of REDX plan ie. Postpaid to Prepaid, Port-Out, Disconnection or Plan change. This fee will be applicable if International Roaming benefit was availed in the last 1 year on REDX 1101 plan.

You can log on to Vi App and go to my accounts > Active plan benefits > claim benefits section. You will be able to activate the benefits available with your plan. Sign-up using registered Vi mobile number and log on to the respective app (Disney+ Hotstar, Amazon Prime, etc.) using the same credentials.

 

  • It is a complimentary 12 month SonyLiv Premium (TV and mobile) subscription worth Rs999, available with REDX 1101 plan; wherein 1 month = 30 days.
  • This subscription works simultaneously on 2 devices and allows you to create up to 5 profiles.  

 It is a complimentary 6 month Eazydiner Prime subscription worth Rs 2190; wherein 1 month = 30 days. Get upto 50% discount at Premium restaurants & bars with this subscription and more!

It is a complimentary 1 year subscription; wherein you can avail a flat discount of Rs 450 on one way flight tickets and Rs 700 on round trip flights every month. 

  • It is a complimentary 7 days International Roaming pack worth Rs2999
  • It is available for free only once every year.

 

You can log on to Vi App and go to claim benefits. You will be able to activate International Roaming benefit if it is available with your plan. Select the start date and activate.

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