eSIM for Trekking: How Nomad Held Up at 8,000m Base Camps
I’ve known Emma and Trevor for over 15 years. We’ve had some amazing holidays together (think Antarctica), and we have more planned. What’s blown me away most is their passion for travel. They’re among a select few people who have trekked to the base camp of all 14 of the world’s mountains over 8,000 metres. They write about it at Project Base8000.
They’ve also used a Nomad eSIM for over three years, from near Antarctica to above the Arctic Circle. So when I added Nomad to our eSIM deals, I asked them how it really holds up when the trail gets remote. Here’s what they told me, in their words.
The short version
- They each buy a 12-month Nomad Global eSIM, rather than sharing one.
- It worked at Everest Base Camp, depending on the weather.
- About 20GB covers a year of their travel, with a few GB to spare.
- High on the mountain, signal runs out. In an emergency, they relied on a satellite phone.
Why did you choose Nomad eSIM?
“We buy a 12-month Global eSIM for ease of use. It covers some 98 countries using each country’s 4G/5G network. It’s data only, but it covers all our needs and has some of the best reviews.”
Data only means no phone number, so keep your Australian SIM switched on for bank SMS codes. Here’s how.
How long have you used Nomad eSIM?
“Over three years.”
What’s your favourite 8,000-metre base camp?
“All 14 of the 8,000ers are different and unique in their history, logistics and terrain. For raw beauty and isolation, K2, Broad Peak, the Gasherbrums and Nanga Parbat, all in Pakistan, stand out. For the history of mountaineering, Mount Everest of course. But the most enjoyable was Manaslu, where we joined a climbing expedition and held a puja ceremony, asking for safe passage to climb the mountain.”
Read more: Pakistan’s five 8,000m base camps · Manaslu Base Camp trek
Does Nomad eSIM work at Everest Base Camp?
“Yes, depending on the weather, such as heavy snow or rain. If there’s a cell tower nearby, it will pick up a signal. In some countries, like Denmark, the 5G connection can be faster than in Australia!”
Read more: Everest Base Camp trek · Everest circuit
Can you rely on an eSIM in a trekking emergency?
“Not high on the mountain. When we needed help, the phone signal was too weak up there, so we used a satellite phone provided by our guiding company.”
Our take: an eSIM is brilliant for the trek in and out, the villages and the towns. It is not a safety device. On remote or high-altitude treks, carry a satellite messenger or personal locator beacon, or check that your guiding company carries a satellite phone, and tell someone your route.
Should couples get one eSIM or two?
“We buy separate eSIMs, which are easy to install before we travel rather than trying to buy in country. We don’t share via hotspot, though you could. Sometimes we’re separated when we’re out and about, so separate eSIMs give us a safety net and independence.”
Which Nomad eSIM plan is best for trekking?
“The Global eSIM.”
Where have you used Nomad eSIM?
“Europe, Asia, and North and South America. Even as far south as near Antarctica, and as far north as above the Arctic Circle near Tromsø.”
Planning a lower-altitude Asia trip? Here’s how Airalo held up across Singapore, Vietnam and Cambodia.
How much data do you need for a year of travel?
“We usually use up to 20GB and have 3 or 4GB spare at the end of the 12 months. There’s a significant discount the more GB you buy, but you could always buy less and add more if you find you need it while travelling.”
Planning a shorter trip? Our eSIM data calculator works out how much you’ll use.
Do you need a local SIM in Nepal or Pakistan?
“No.”
What should you know before using an eSIM on a trek?
“Nothing. Nomad eSIM is so easy to install and use. Install it before you leave home and toggle it on when you land.”
Who shouldn’t use Nomad eSIM?
“We can’t think of a reason not to recommend it. If you have children or elderly relatives travelling with you and they have an unlocked phone, an eSIM gives an extra safety net. Remember: if you buy a new phone, an eSIM bought for your old one needs Nomad to reactivate it.”
Disclosure: Points Brotherhood earns a commission if you buy through our Nomad link, at no extra cost to you. Trevor and Emma pay for their own eSIMs and weren’t paid for this Q&A.
Read more from Trevor and Emma
Their books cover the adventure and the preparation:
- Life-Changing Adventure: be daring, be inspired. Adventure is waiting for you.
- Yak Pack: how to get ready for your next trek.
Plus trek guides by region at projectbase8000.com.
FAQ
Does an eSIM work at Everest Base Camp?
Yes, when there’s a cell tower nearby and the weather allows. Trevor and Emma’s Nomad eSIM picked up signal at Everest Base Camp, but heavy snow or rain can cut it out.
Can I rely on an eSIM for emergencies on a trek?
No. Signal often runs out high on the mountain. Carry a satellite messenger or personal locator beacon, or trek with a guiding company that carries a satellite phone.
Which Nomad eSIM plan is best for trekking?
Trevor and Emma use the 12-month Global eSIM, which covers many countries on one plan.
How much data do you need for a year of travel?
Trevor and Emma usually use up to 20GB over 12 months and finish with 3 or 4GB spare.
Do you need a local SIM in Nepal or Pakistan?
Trevor and Emma didn’t. Their Nomad eSIM covered them in both countries.
