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What is a Local eSIM, and how do I identify one?

Local eSIMs are plans provided directly by a local carrier in your destination country - for example, TrueMove in Thailand, KDDI in Japan or T-mobile in US

Most standard travel eSIMs work by routing your connection through a third-party network, which can result in slower speeds or weaker signal in less central areas. Local eSIMs are different - they connect you directly to the country's own network infrastructure, the same way a resident's SIM card would. This means your connection is more stable, faster, and more reliable across the board.

Because of this direct connection, Local plans typically offer:

  • Stronger, more stable signal - even in areas outside city centers or in rural regions
  • Faster speeds - full 4G/5G from a trusted local carrier, with less congestion from shared roaming networks
  • Optional phone number - some Local plans include a local number for calls and SMS

You can identify a Local plan by the carrier logo displayed on the plan card - for example, KDDI, TrueMove, or T-Mobile. When you expand the card, you'll also see the Network field showing the carrier name directly.

Local eSIMs are Gohub's premium option - ideal if you're working remotely, joining video calls, streaming content, or simply want the best possible connection throughout your trip without worrying about signal quality.