Latest on eSims in Portugal

Periscope,
The only eSim listed there is the one from MEO which is data only. I was aware of that one, but need to be able to make calls when out of wifi locations. I will keep an eye on the site to see if things change in the next month.
Seems I will most likely be sticking with a physical SIM card

Thanks

Periscope,
An advantage is the ability to retain my US number at the same time as the Portuguese number. I looked into replacing my existing US (Verizon) card with an eSim but was informed that the current Verizon eSim does not support their emerging 5G system very well.

But I agree with you that it is not worth jumping through hoops to get the eSim for Portugal. There is a Vodaphone store about a 15" walk from my AirBnB.

Much Regards,
Dennis

Dennis, I am an eSim convert for several reasons - but you are right, the learning curve is real. I also like having a local number and not having to stay up with and change that physical sim - or spend my time at the airport getting a sim when I am tired. I will do it, but the eSim makes it all so much easier once the process before traveling is figured out.

Because I use an iPhone, I start with the [Apple support][1] page.

I then looked at the Vodaphone process (Chrome will translate) and put an eSim in my cart.
https://www.vodafone.pt/loja/cartoes-sim/vodafone/cartao-esim-gratis.html?i_id=destaque-tarifarios-esim-novos&segment=consumer&paymentType=pvp

From there it wants me to register - which is where you would buy your plan. I didn’t go this far (since I won’t be in Portugal any time soon) but it wouldn’t hurt to register and look at plans from there, I wouldn’t think. And getting the eSim is free as well.

In the past, I have used physical sims that gave me a certain amount of data (etc.) and I would have to go online to top up periodically (specifically T-Mobile in Croatia for a month) as opposed to buying a plan that only lasts a certain length of time. There was no “auto-renew” or regular monthly payment. Some people on the forum have this for a physical Vodaphone sim but I want it for an eSim!

Periscope,
I think all that switching undercuts the simplicity I am seeking in the first place. I will stay in contact with Verizon to see if they update their eSim for 5G. If that happens, it is well worth the hassle

Travelmom,
I explored the Vodaphone site previously. Their eSims are tied to a continuing plan. As I have only one planned trip this year, I do not want to have to remember to cancel the plan. I think the Travelers prepaid sim is going to be worth the walk after we get to our AirBnB and have our 1 hour post flight nap

Loved my e-sim experience (just last week)
BUT I had zero voice and no local number ; just data

Bought online ; zero hoops required lifetime access works throughout most Europe and can top it off when I need more data.

But my experience may not be what you want due to tee lack of voice.