Are e sims a good idea vs a sim card? Is it safe to purchase it online before I go? This cell phone thing is a bit confusing. What's the advantage or the Orange card?
Check first with your provider here
Many have decent affordable international plans so you can just use your phone as is
You will want to use free WIFI whenever possible and get WhatsApp for texting (free app, free texting)
The very best option is Google Fi.
It works worldwide and you just pay for actual usage. You can also freeze your service till your next travel. The only catch is that you must activate it before you leave the US.
You might want to check out some of the recent discussions regarding eSIMs, such as this one: international eSIM.