Simify Reports Surge In Security-Conscious Travellers Switching To eSIMs This Summer

Simify is reporting a sharp rise in Australians heading overseas with eSIMs loaded before take-off, as concerns about hacking and roaming costs shape pre-flight checklists ahead of the summer travel peak.

The provider linked the trend to the December–January travel surge, with Australian Bureau of Statistics data showing more residents travel internationally during this period than at any other time of year.

eSIMs Move Into Peak Season

With most travellers carrying smartphones as routinely as passports, Simify said the summer rush has become the busiest time of year for eSIM adoption. The technology, embedded in modern phones and tablets, allows users to shift between networks without swapping physical SIMs or changing numbers.

Families heading overseas often prioritise convenience, said Aidan Butler, co-founder of Simify.

“The convenience of eSIMs is perfect for families heading overseas for the summer break, making it easy and affordable to keep everyone online,” Butler said.

Simify covers more than 150 countries, offering unlimited data for up to 90 days without top-ups or extra roaming charges.

Avoiding Roaming Bill Shock

Butler warned that leaving eSIM activation until after landing can expose travellers to higher roaming fees and, in some destinations, restrictions on foreign eSIM purchases.

“A few countries prevent tourists from purchasing foreign eSIM services after they arrive in the country,” he said. “Things can change very quickly, so it’s safer to get your eSIM up and running before you fly, rather than risk getting caught out at the other end.”

Security Now A Major Driver

Alongside roaming costs, cybersecurity concerns are driving uptake. Butler said Australians are increasingly aware of the risks associated with public Wi-Fi, particularly during peak travel periods.

“Summer is our busiest time of year as Australians flock overseas, but the smart ones know that eSIMs aren’t just about saving money,” he said. “People are waking up to the fact that public Wi-Fi isn’t safe anymore, so they’re taking advantage of unlimited eSIM plans to avoid relying on dodgy Wi-Fi when they travel.”

The concerns align with data from Hospitality Net’s 2024 Cybersecurity in Hotels Report, which found 58 per cent of hotel cybersecurity leaders experienced five or more cyberattacks during the peak travel season.

Related: Prepaid SIMs for travel

Secure Mobile Data And Retained Numbers

Unlimited eSIM plans allow travellers to rely entirely on mobile data, which the provider framed as a more secure alternative to hotel or public Wi-Fi. Keeping an Australian number active while overseas also supports receiving verification codes and banking alerts.

“Cybersecurity threats are constantly evolving, you just can’t be sure whether any Wi-Fi network is really legit and secure,” Butler said. “You’re paying a very high cost for so-called free public Wi-Fi if your bank account gets cleaned out when you’re travelling abroad.”

More Information

Details on Simify’s eSIM roaming plans are available at: https://simify.com

Last Updated on July 30, 2026 by Nick Ross