If you're an Erasmus student, an eSIM could be the decision that saves you the most money during your entire stay. A semester abroad with your Spanish operator's roaming can cost you an extra €400–800. With a local eSIM at your destination, the cost can be reduced to €50–120 for the entire semester.
Connectivity for Erasmus: More Than a Luxury
| Data Usage for Erasmus | Estimated Data/Week |
|---|---|
| Google Maps for navigating the city | 0.5–1 GB |
| WhatsApp with family and friends (audio, photos) | 1–2 GB |
| Instagram, TikTok (uploading and viewing content) | 3–6 GB |
| Online class, Zoom, Teams | 1–2 GB |
| Netflix/Spotify (on public transport) | 2–4 GB |
| Web browsing, email | 0.5–1 GB |
Estimated total: 8–16 GB per week. In a 5-month semester: 160–320 GB. Standard Spanish roaming would make this financially unfeasible.
eSIM Plans for Erasmus
| Option | Cost per Semester | Quality | Disadvantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish operator roaming | €400–800 | Poor (limited) | Ruiningly expensive |
| Local physical SIM card | €50–100 | Very good | Number change, in-store procedures |
| eSIM from local destination operator | €60–120 | Very good | Bureaucratic process, requires local ID |
| PuraSIM data eSIM (monthly plan) | €60–120 | Good | Data only, no local number |
| PuraSIM eSIM + Spanish dual SIM | €80–150 | Optimal | Slightly higher cost |
Real Savings During the Erasmus Semester
| Situation | Total Cost 5 Months | Savings vs. Roaming |
|---|---|---|
| Standard operator roaming | €400–800 | Reference |
| Local physical SIM | €60–100 | €340–700 |
| PuraSIM monthly eSIM | €75–120 | €325–680 |
| Erasmus in EU (free roaming up to limit) | €0–50 | €350–750 |
Optimal Setup for Erasmus University Students
The best option depends on the destination country:
- Erasmus in the EU (France, Germany, Italy, Poland…): Check if your Spanish operator includes free EU roaming up to a certain limit. If so, use it for the first few days and then add a PuraSIM eSIM to avoid exceeding the limit.
- Erasmus outside the EU (UK, Turkey, Morocco…): A local eSIM is clearly the best option. Roaming outside the EU has no regulated limit.
Essential Apps for Erasmus with eSIM
- Google Maps offline: Download the city map before you leave to save data.
- Splitwise: To split expenses with fellow Erasmus students.
- Revolut/Wise: Commission-free payments in local currency.
- Duolingo: Learn the local language by using your data.
- WhatsApp: Stay in touch with family and friends in Spain.
Conclusion
For Erasmus, an eSIM or local SIM is essential. Spanish operator roaming is financially unviable for a stay of several months. With €75–120 for the entire semester on an eSIM, you get full connectivity and can dedicate that extra money to fully experience Erasmus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep using my Spanish number on Erasmus?
Yes. If you use Dual SIM (Spanish SIM + data eSIM), you keep your Spanish number, and your friends can message you on WhatsApp using the same number.
How many GB do I need per month for Erasmus?
Between 30 and 60 GB/month is typical for a university student active on social media. For lighter use (maps, WhatsApp), 15–20 GB might be enough.
Does the eSIM work on campus?
Yes. The eSIM works anywhere with local operator coverage. On campus, there is usually Wi-Fi, but the eSIM is useful when you are moving around the city.
Can I use the eSIM to call Spain cheaply?
PuraSIM's data eSIM does not include calls. To call Spain for free or cheaply, use WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Google Meet via the eSIM's data.
If I go to several countries during Erasmus, do I need multiple eSIMs?
It depends. A regional European plan can cover multiple countries with a single eSIM. If you travel outside Europe on excursions, you would need to activate a different plan for that destination.
