Traveling from the USA to the Netherlands: Guide to Using eSIM in Europe

Traveling to the Netherlands from the US can be an exciting adventure! However, before leaving for a new trip, travelers must remember primary essentials like a valid ID, tickets and reservations, travel insurance, travel apps, comfortable shoes, and a reliable connectivity solution.

When looking for the best connectivity solution for your European trip and visiting the Netherlands, in particular, rely on using a free eSIM. The digital eSIM is here to change how you connect on travel, offering a cheaper, easier, safer, and less frustrating connectivity experience.

Where to buy eSIM for the Netherlands, how to prepare for your adventure, and how to choose the best connectivity solution for your vacation? This article provides useful tips on using eSIM in Europe and actionable insights into choosing the right eSIM for data in the Netherlands. Let’s dive in!

Are There Roaming Charges in the Netherlands?

Roaming charges apply for travelers outside the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA). This means people arriving in the Netherlands from the USA and connecting their phones to a Dutch network should be ready to pay roaming charges unless they use an international eSIM from providers like Keepgo, which prevents them from paying extra connectivity fees when they are on vacation.

However, travelers within EU countries do not pay roaming fees due to the "Roam Like at Home" regulation. This regulation lets you use your device as if you were at home without paying roaming fees.

How to Avoid Roaming Charges in the Netherlands

Unless your home provider offers special international plans, you’d better think of alternative solutions to stay connected while traveling to the Netherlands. Here are some tips:

• If you leave for a trip to Europe with the SIM card you use at home, consider turning off data roaming to avoid accidental usage.
• When you are in an area with a free Wi-Fi connection, consider using it for data needs (though we do not recommend using a free public Wi-Fi connection for safety reasons).
• If you are looking for a solution that provides instant connectivity, you may buy a local SIM card upon arrival.
• Rather than looking for a place to buy a local SIM card upon arrival, we recommend buying an eSIM solution from providers like Keepgo before your departure (we’ll discuss this option in more detail below).
• If your preferred device is not eSIM-compatible, you may consider purchasing a European SIM card or a Wi-Fi hotspot before leaving your trip. Any of these options will connect you to the local network of the visited country without charging you roaming fees.
• Whenever you need to call your family or friends from abroad, consider using your data-only eSIM, SIM card, or Wi-Fi hotspot with messaging apps like WhatsApp for free texting and calling.

What Is an eSIM and How Does It Work?

An eSIM is a digital version of a traditional SIM card, which is soldered onto the compatible device's motherboard and can be activated and managed remotely. An eSIM is a more convenient and reliable connectivity solution than a physical SIM card, which cannot be lost when you cross the border since it’s stored directly on your device. An eSIM connects you to the supported carriers through software. When using a Corvus, Europe eSIM from Keepgo, you use the services of the three reading Dutch networks - KPN, T-Mobile, and Vodafone. Your eSIM will automatically connect to the network with the strongest signal in the place you visit, or you can to the preferred network via your device’s settings.

Why Use an eSIM When Traveling?

Using an eSIM during travel is more convenient, flexible, and safe than relying on your home network’s roaming plan. The major reasons why an eSIM is your best choice for travel include but are not limited to the following:

1. Convenience. An eSIM is delivered to your email instantly. You can install it right away. If the eSIM bundle covers where you currently stay, you can activate it immediately. If you still need to, you can easily activate the service upon arrival at the destination included in the coverage list. Besides, you can conveniently switch between carriers at your destination and use the provider's services, which offer the best speeds.
2. Cost-effectiveness. With an eSIM, you can connect to any local network supported by your plan at the same price without paying roaming charges.
3. Safety. Unlike physical SIM cards that can be easily lost, an eSIM is stored in your device and is always ready to use when you come to the country covered by your plan. Besides, all Keepgo eSIM bundles keep your web browsing experience safe due to the Privacy IP.
4. Reliability. An eSIM is ready to use whenever you need it. Ensure that you have a valid balance and refill your line with any amount at least once a year, and the data of your Keepgo eSIM will remain valid for a lifetime.

How to Choose the Right eSIM for the Netherlands

To choose the right eSIM for your trip to the Netherlands, ensure the connectivity provider offers extensive coverage nationwide. In a perfect scenario, Europe's best eSIM should cover several of the most popular wireless networks. At Keepgo, we ensure our eSIM bundles offer coverage on two or more of the best networks in every destination. For example, Corvus Europe eSIM provides connectivity on three Dutch networks.

Opt for eSIM providers that do not slow down connectivity speeds when your balance runs low. Besides, ensure the eSIM provider allows easier refills and supports convenient data top-up options, like Auto-Refill. Keepgo’s Europe prepaid data bundles support all the criteria above. Depending on your usage needs, you can refill your line with as low as $2 for 100 MB, $4 for 1 GB, $12 for 5 GB, etc. Please note that the refill prices slightly vary depending on the chosen eSIM bundles. The prices mentioned above apply to the Corvus eSIM.

How Much Data Do You Need?

The amount of data you need for your Netherlands trip depends on your digital habits and travel style. Let’s consider the following estimates:

• Light user (1-2GB/week): This is best for checking emails, navigating maps, and using social media.
• : Great for regular social media posts, video calls, and streaming music while exploring.
• Heavy user (7-10GB/week): This is perfect if you work remotely, stream videos, or share high-resolution photos and videos.
• Power user (15GB+/week): This plan is ideal for heavy data needs, such as uploading large files, extensive streaming, or using your phone as a hotspot.

Pro Tip: It’s better to have extra data than risk running out mid-trip. With Keepgo eSIM’s pay-as-you-go option, topping up is hassle-free—whether you’re capturing tulip fields or video-calling from a cozy café in Amsterdam.

Keepgo eSIM for the Netherlands

Keepgo provides six eSIM bundles for the Netherlands, with refill prices starting at $2. While each data bundle we sell is unique and provides coverage in a specific set of countries on several operators in each destination, there are several key features all Keepgo eSIM bundles share:

• Pay-as-you-go data provides the ultimate flexibility on your travel. Refill whenever needed for as much as you need.
• Convenient Auto-Refill functionality ensures your line is automatically refilled with the chosen amount whenever the balance runs low. The Bill Protection feature, in turn, ensures your monthly spending won’t exceed the allowed value.
• The balance of your line never expires when you refill it with any amount at least once a year.
• All our eSIM bundles provide multi-country coverage, which will be useful for your international adventures.
• The eSIM installs and activates in minutes.

Check out our eSIM Netherlands collection page as you prepare for your trip. With Keepgo eSIM, you can enjoy seamless connectivity in the Netherlands without the fear of unexpected charges. Whether you're cruising along Amsterdam's canals or cycling through vibrant tulip fields, stay connected effortlessly and leave roaming fees behind.

How to Activate and Use an eSIM Plan for Your Destination

eSIM installation instructions vary based on your device. Before getting started, ensure that your device is eSIM-compatible. Once your gadget supports the technology, pick the preferred eSIM for Europe. Our eSIMs are free; you only pay for the data you use.

Once you select an eSIM for Europe, install and activate it on your device by following the instructions specific to your gadget. The installation process is straightforward and takes a couple of minutes. To activate the eSIM, you should be in the location covered by the chosen eSIM bundle. If the chosen eSIM doesn’t work in your location, we recommend installing it on your device and activating it upon arrival at your travel destination.